Found in the southern corner of Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park is made up of pristine tropical rainforest with a dense canopy. It was declared as a National Park in 2004, it’s meant to create a unique spot to explore beyond Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Currently Nyungwe Forest National Park is among the most thought after parks in East Africa because of its remarkable biodiversity. There is a lot to marvel while on a safari to Nyungwe including different plant species like ebonies, tall old mahoganies, orchids, epiphytes and giant tree ferns. Not mentioned are the numerous bird species, butterflies along with larger forest residents including the chimpanzees.
For a glimpse of Nyungwe Forest’s tempting natural sceneries, try the East Africa’s highest canopy that is stably suspended 50 metres above the ground in Nyungwe Forest. It’s not for the faint-hearted but breath-taking views of the canopy tops, towering volcanoes is truly unforgettable.
How to get there?
From Kigali airport to Nyungwe, it takes about 4-5 hours for the drive majorly depending on speed used. Starting your journey to Kigali, you will drive southwest to Muhanga. From Muhanga drive south to Nyanza and more to Huye city. From Huye drive westwards to Nyamagabe, the nearest town to the entrance of Nyungwe Forest National Park. Reaching the gate before entering, you have to pay the entrance fee.
It’s more extraordinary and secure when you arrange all the transportation services from Kigali to Nyungwe with a local tour operator than opting for the public means. Other than road transportation, you can travel to Nyungwe by air transport. Private charters are arranged from Kigali airport to Kamembe international airstrip. From here, travel with your guide to Nyungwe.
Activities in the Park
Chimpanzee tracking
Nyungwe Forest National Park is more than suitable for lovers of primate species, this is backed by its concentration of primate species that total up to thirteen. Travellers usually go there for the life changing Chimpanzee tracking experience.
Early in the morning, the briefing is conducted to highlight trackers about the Dos and Don’ts while in the Jungle. After the trekking expeditions to the Jungle will arrive you to the exact location of the Chimpanzees in their communities.
Like Gorillas, you are allowed to stay in their presence for one hour while beholding them playing, feeding and jumping off in the dense forests.
Another adventurous activity on offer in Nyungwe is the trek in search of grey-cheeked mangabey, Rwenzori colobus monkeys and other primates. For L’Hoest monkeys are easily sighted while trekking in the Jungle.
Chimpanzee tracking is not free of charge, you must buy a permit which costs $90 USD per person.
Forest hike/Canopy Walk
About 130 km of hiking routes were created in Nyungwe Forest National Park with interest to allow visitors explore the fascinating habitats in Nyungwe Forest.
These trails that winds through rolling hills and dense jungles brings you close to nature. Different trails in Nyungwe Forest last from one to eight hours.
One of the breath taking trails to try for those not physically fit is the Igishigishigi Trail, it’s short and includes the East Africa’s highest canopy walk that offers awe-inspiring views of landscapes.
The other trail to try is the Bigugu trail that leads you to the highest Mountain in Nyungwe standing at 2950 m high. It lasts for six hours.
Bird watching.
Around 310 species that reside in Nyungwe Forest National Park gives a reason why this park is listed among Rwanda’s major birding hotspots.
Some of the common species sighted during the excursion include great blue turacos, red-breasted sparrowhawks, giant hornbills and 27 species that are endemic to the Albertine Rift Valley.