2 Days Nyungwe National Park Safari

The 2 Days Nyungwe National Park Safari is a short yet deeply enriching chimpanzee adventure, ideal for travelers who wish to explore Rwanda’s pristine rainforest within a limited timeframe. This rewarding journey takes you to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest and most well-preserved montane rainforests, celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity and scenic beauty.

Notably, Nyungwe Forest is home to a wide variety of mammals and primates, including chimpanzees, grey-cheeked mangabeys, olive baboons, blue monkeys, silver monkeys, vervet monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys. In addition, the forest shelters over 300 bird species, making it a haven for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Throughout this two-day safari, you will enjoy a thrilling canopy walk as well as an immersive chimpanzee trekking experience. Consequently, you will have the rare opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat while also appreciating the forest’s rich ecosystems. Experiya Tour Company carefully designs this safari to balance adventure, comfort, and meaningful wildlife encounters.

Safari Highlights

• Day 1: Pick-up and scenic transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park, followed by an afternoon canopy walk
•  Day 2: Chimpanzee trekking experience and return transfer to Kigali

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Pick-up and Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park – Afternoon Canopy Walk

Depending on your location, an experienced driver-guide from Experiya Tour Company will pick you up early in the morning. Shortly afterward, you will receive a brief introduction to the safari before beginning your scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, which takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.

Along the way, you will stop for an en-route lunch. Thereafter, the journey continues through Rwanda’s rolling hills, tea plantations, and lush countryside, offering beautiful photo opportunities. Upon arrival at the park, you will proceed to the Uwinka Visitors Centre for a canopy walk briefing.

Later in the afternoon, you will begin the walk along the Igishigishi Trail, which leads to the impressive canopy walkway suspended high above the forest floor. As you cross the bridge, you will enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the rainforest. Meanwhile, you may spot birds, towering trees, and, with a bit of luck, primates moving through the canopy below.

Following the canopy walk, you will meet your driver-guide and transfer to your lodge. In the evening, you will enjoy dinner and settle in for an overnight stay near Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park and Departure to Kigali

After an early breakfast, you will transfer once again to the Uwinka Visitors Centre for a chimpanzee trekking briefing. During this session, park rangers will explain the rules, guidelines, and expectations to ensure a safe, responsible, and enjoyable trekking experience.

Subsequently, you will be assigned an experienced park guide who is highly knowledgeable about the forest trails and chimpanzee movements. Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzee community on that particular day.

As you trek through the dense forest, you may encounter other primate species, colorful butterflies, diverse birdlife, and an impressive variety of plant and tree species. Once the chimpanzees are located, you will be allowed to spend one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural environment. During this time, you can watch them feed, play, groom, rest, and interact, while also taking photographs and videos.

After the trek, you will hike back to the starting point and reunite with your driver-guide. Thereafter, you will return to the lodge for lunch, check out, and begin your return journey to Kigali. Upon arrival in the city, you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport for your departure flight or at any preferred location within Kigali.

End of the 2 Days Nyungwe National Park Safari

Tour Includes

• Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • Canopy walk experience
  • Full-time English-speaking driver-guide
  • Full board accommodation
  • Ground transfers in a 4WD safari vehicle
  • Vehicle and fuel
  • Bottled drinking water

Tour Excludes

• International air tickets
  • Visas
  • Optional activities not included in the itinerary
  • Travel and life insurance
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs, crafts, drinks, laundry services, porter fees, and tips