Nyungwe Forest National Park

Situated in western Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park is among the world’s most untouched and beautiful rainforests. The park’s landscape is shaped by a chain of mountains stretching from northern Uganda and Congo, through the Rwenzori range, western Rwanda, and Burundi, down to Lake Tanganyika. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Lake Kivu and, on clear days, the Virunga mountain ranges. Nyungwe features an extensive network of well-maintained trails that lead to waterfalls and scenic lookout points.

Wildlife in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is rich in wildlife, housing about 75 mammal species, though many are small or active at night, making them difficult to see. The park’s main draw is its primates, including two habituated chimpanzee communities and 13 other primate species such as silver and golden monkeys.

Birdlife in Nyungwe Forest National Park

This forest is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with roughly 300 bird species recorded, including 16 endemic species and 27 unique to the Albertine Rift. Notable birds include the Chestnut Owlet, Great Blue Turaco, and White-headed Wood-hoopoe, among others.

Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park

  • Chimpanzee Trekking: Two groups of wild chimpanzees in Nyungwe are habituated to human presence, making early morning treks the best time to spot them. While chimp sightings aren’t guaranteed, the forest exploration itself and encounters with other wildlife make it worthwhile.

  • Birdwatching: Visitors can enjoy guided birdwatching tours on well-marked trails to see the diverse and rare bird species inhabiting the forest canopy.

  • Nature and Hiking Walks: The park offers trails suitable for various fitness levels, from short strolls to multi-day hikes. Popular routes include the Igishigishigi, Karamba, and Umugote trails, which provide opportunities for birdwatching, primate spotting, and visiting waterfalls.

Getting to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is about 225 kilometers from Kigali and typically requires a four to five-hour drive. Travelers can hire a car and driver, take a bus from Kigali’s central station, or fly into Kamembe Airport, located roughly 30 minutes from the park. For chimpanzee trekking starting at the Uwinka Reception Center, using a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.