Nyungwe Forest National Park protects one of the oldest rainforests in Africa — a mountain forest that has survived since the last Ice Age and now shelters an extraordinary array of biodiversity. Spanning 1,020 square kilometres of steep-sided hills and deep valleys, Nyungwe is the largest remaining tract of montane forest in East or Central Africa.
The park is home to 13 primate species, with habituated chimpanzees providing the headline tracking experience. Unlike the relatively brief gorilla encounters, chimp tracking can involve covering significant distances as the groups move through the canopy, making for an active and exhilarating experience. Troops of Ruwenzori colobus monkeys — sometimes over 300 animals in a single group — are among the largest primate gatherings in Africa.
The Igishigishigi Canopy Walkway is a 200-metre suspension bridge strung 50 metres above the forest floor, offering a bird's-eye perspective on the canopy ecosystem. Walking through the mist-shrouded treetops as sunbirds flash past and hornbills call from the canopy is one of Rwanda's most memorable experiences.
Everything you need to know before booking your Nyungwe Forest National Park safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
June to September for driest forest conditions. Chimpanzee tracking is available year-round but success rates are higher in the dry season when chimps are more predictable. The canopy walkway is best enjoyed on clear mornings.
Chimpanzee tracking $90/person. Canopy walkway $60/person. Colobus monkey tracking $60/person. Park entry $40/adult/day. One&Only Nyungwe House $1,000-3,000/night. Mid-range lodges $80-300/night. Budget guesthouses in Nyamagabe from $20-50/night.
June to September for driest forest conditions. Chimpanzee tracking is available year-round but success rates are higher in the dry season when chimps are more predictable. The canopy walkway is best enjoyed on clear mornings.
5 hours from Kigali by road (stunning scenic drive). Can be combined with a visit to Butare (Huye) cultural museums. The park straddles the Congo-Nile watershed along Rwanda's southwestern border with Burundi.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Chimpanzee tracking, Canopy walkway 50m above the forest, 13 primate species including L'Hoest's monkey, Over 300 bird species, Ancient montane rainforest. The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Chimpanzee tracking $90/person. Canopy walkway $60/person. Colobus monkey tracking $60/person. Park entry $40/adult/day. One&Only Nyungwe House $1,000-3,000/night. Mid-range lodges $80-300/night. Budget guesthouses in Nyamagabe from $20-50/night.
5 hours from Kigali by road (stunning scenic drive). Can be combined with a visit to Butare (Huye) cultural museums. The park straddles the Congo-Nile watershed along Rwanda's southwestern border with Burundi.