Nyungwe Forest National Park: Rwanda’s Hidden Gem
Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills, is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. While many travelers flock to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, Nyungwe Forest National Park in the southwest is a hidden gem that every nature lover should experience. Spanning over 1,000 km², Nyungwe is one of East Africa’s largest montane rainforests, home to a rich diversity of wildlife, plants, and birds. This guide will help you plan your Rwanda trip, highlighting the best activities, accommodations, travel tips, and more..
Why Visit Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe Forest offers:
- Primates: Chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys
- Birds: 300+ species including Albertine Rift endemics
- Plants: 1,000+ species with medicinal value
- Hiking trails, waterfalls, canopy walks, tea plantations, and cultural experiences
How to Get There
- 225 km southwest of Kigali (~5–6 hours by car)
- Private car, public transport + taxis, or guided tour packages
- Nearby towns: Gisakura, Kitabi, Nyungwe HQ
Best Time to Visit
- Dry season: June–September & Dec–Feb (ideal for trekking & wildlife)
- Rainy season: Mar–May & Oct–Nov (lush but trails slippery)
Top Things to Do in Nyungwe Forest
1. Chimpanzee Trekking
Nyungwe is home to a thriving population of chimpanzees:
Guided treks last 2–5 hours. Observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat with trained rangers. Tips: long sleeves, binoculars, no flash photography.
2. Canopy Walk
The Nyungwe Canopy Walk is a must-do:
90 meters long, 50 meters above forest floor. Panoramic views of hills, valleys, and wildlife. Morning visits recommended. Safe for all ages.
3. Birdwatching
Nyungwe is a birdwatcher’s paradise:
Over 300 species of birds, including Albertine Rift endemics. Guided tours available. Bring a field guide or birding app.
4. Hiking & Waterfalls
Nyungwe offers over 130 km of trails:
130+ km of trails, including Kamiranzovu, Isumo, and Irebero. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
5. Tea Plantation & Cultural Tours
Visit Gisakura and Kitabi tea estates, sample Rwandan tea, and experience local culture, music, and crafts.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury: Nyungwe House, One & Only Nyungwe
- Mid-range: Gisakura Guest House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
- Budget: Local guesthouses with authentic Rwandan hospitality
Practical Travel Tips
- Permits required for chimpanzee trekking (book via Rwanda Development Board )
- Packing: hiking shoes, raincoat, insect repellent, binoculars, water bottle
- Respect wildlife & ranger instructions
Sample Itineraries
3-Day Plan:
- Day 1: Arrival, lodge check-in, evening forest walk
- Day 2: Chimpanzee trek, canopy walk
- Day 3: Birdwatching, tea plantation visit, cultural tour, depart
5-Day Plan:
- 3 Day plan + Day 4 & 5: Extend hikes, multiple chimpanzee treks, and cultural immersion.
FAQs About Nyungwe Forest
Is Nyungwe Forest safe for solo travelers?
es, with guided tours and rangers, Nyungwe is safe. Stick to trails and follow park rules.
How much does chimpanzee trekking cost?
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) charges approximately $90–$100 per person for chimpanzee trekking. Booking in advance is recommended.
Can I visit in the rainy season?
Yes, Nyungwe can be visited year-round. However, trails may be muddy during the rainy season. The dry seasons (June–September & December–February) are preferred for easier trekking conditions.
How many days should I spend?
Plan to spend 2–5 days in Nyungwe depending on your interests. Two days is enough for a chimpanzee trek and canopy walk, while a longer stay allows for more hikes and cultural experiences.
Explore More
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2 comments
Hello, what’s the budget range for Nyungwe trip?
meals, accommodation, transport etc …do you have any recommendations?
Hi! A Nyungwe trip usually costs around $300–$600 for 2–3 days, including meals, transport, and stay. Budget lodges start around $40/night, and private transport from Kigali is about $100–$150 round trip. Totally worth it for the forest views!