Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in western Rwanda, is one of the world’s most beautiful and pristine rainforests. It features a series of mountains that extend from northern Uganda and Congo, running south through the Rwenzori Mountains, western Rwanda, and Burundi, all the way to the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

On clear days, Nyungwe Forest National Park offers scenic views of Lake Kivu and sometimes the Virunga ranges. The park boasts an extensive network of well-maintained walking and hiking trails that lead to various waterfalls and viewpoints. Popular activities in Nyungwe Forest include chimp trekking, bird watching, colobus monkey trekking, and a canopy walk.

Wildlife in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest is home to 75 different species of mammals, most of which are small or nocturnal, making wildlife sightings challenging. Chimpanzees are the main attraction, with chimp trekking opportunities available daily in the early morning. The forest also hosts troops of colobus monkeys, often numbering over 300, which provide visitors with another engaging experience.

 

Nyungwe Forest is home to 13 primate species, including:

– Chimpanzees

– Silver Monkey

– Golden Monkey

– Owl-faced Monkey (Hamlyn’s Monkey)

– Grey-cheeked Mangabey

– Red-tailed Monkey

– L’Hoest’s Monkey

– Vervet Monkey

– Olive Baboon

– Dent’s Mona Monkey

– Blue Monkey

– Angolan Colobus Monkey

 

The park also features around 300 bird species, with 16 endemics and 27 Albertine Rift endemics. Notable birds include:

– Chestnut Owlet

– Olive and Elliot’s Woodpeckers

– Great Blue and Ruwenzori Turacos

– White-headed Wood-hoopoe

– Stripe-breasted Tit

– Red-collared Babbler

– Archer’s and White-bellied Robin Chats

– Handsome Francolin

– Purple-breasted and Regal Sunbirds

 

Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Chimpanzee Trekking

Nyungwe Forest is home to two habituated chimpanzee communities: one in Cyamudongo and the other near Uwinka, with about 400 chimpanzees in total. While seeing chimps is not guaranteed, guides provide insight into their natural habitats. Arrive at the briefing area by 5:00 AM for the best chance of spotting them, as they are most active in the morning. Even if you don’t see the chimps, you’ll enjoy observing other primates, butterflies, and the refreshing forest atmosphere.

Birdwatching

Nyungwe National Park, ranging from 1,600 to 2,950 meters in altitude, is home to numerous bird species found in trees and at the forest edges. Commonly sighted birds include the Rwenzori Nightjar, White-tailed Crested Flycatcher, and Great Blue Turaco. Well-maintained trails and expert bird guides enhance the birdwatching experience.

Nature and Hiking Walks

The park’s extensive hiking trails offer varied lengths and difficulties, making it suitable for all hikers. The Congo-Nile Divide Trail is a challenging 227 km trek for experienced hikers, with shorter one-day hike options available. Along the way, enjoy diverse landscapes and local communities. Campsites are provided for overnight stays, but you must bring your own camping gear and can purchase supplies at nearby shops.

Nyungwe Forest Trails and Activities

The Igishigishigi Trail is 2 km long and offers stunning views of the Nyungwe forest canopy, wildflowers, monkeys, and various birds. It takes about one to two hours to complete, and participants must be at least six years old, accompanied by an adult.

The Karamba Trail is great for birdwatching and is surrounded by fern trees on the site of a former gold mine. The Umugote Trail offers opportunities for primate viewing and showcases beautiful flora and butterflies, with views of Kibira National Park on clear days.

The Uwinka Trail is challenging but excellent for birdwatching, while the Irebero Trail provides views of Lake Kivu and the park’s highest peaks. The 10 km Imbaraga Trail is for experienced hikers, featuring refreshing waterfalls.

The Bigugu Trail leads to the highest peak in Nyungwe Forest Park, and the Isumo Trail gives you a chance to explore tea fields and the park’s largest waterfall. The Kamiranzovu Trail focuses on waterfalls and swamps, while the Muzimu Trail passes through eucalyptus and pine forests. The Ngabwe Trail offers a lovely picnic area, and the Rukuzi Trail is ideal for chimpanzee spotting and village views.

 

Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

The canopy walk, part of the Igishigishigi Trail, hangs 60 meters above the ground and provides breathtaking views of the forest.

Cultural Tours

Enhance your Nyungwe experience by visiting local communities to learn about Rwandan culture. Activities include dance ceremonies, banana beer production, and traditional crafts.

Getting to Nyungwe Forest

To reach Nyungwe National Park, drive from Kigali to Nyanza, then Huye, taking about five hours. Alternatively, you can fly with Akagera Aviation.

Accommodations

Accommodation near Nyungwe Forest is limited to a few options. You can also stay by Lake Kivu in Cyangugu at:

– One & Only Nyungwe House

– Nyungwe Top View Lodge

– EAR Guesthouse

– Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel

– Emeraude Kivu Resort

Preparation for Chimpanzee Trekking

Bring a sun hat, insect repellent, trousers and long-sleeved shirts, sunscreen, and waterproof hiking boots.