Chimpanzee Trekking in Cyamudongo Forest

Chimpanzee trekking in Cyamudongo Forest offers one of Rwanda’s most intimate wildlife encounters. The forest, which forms part of Nyungwe Forest National Park, is home to one of only two fully habituated chimpanzee groups in the park. Although Cyamudongo covers just 5 square kilometers, it shelters a community of more than 30 chimpanzees, making encounters highly rewarding and accessible.

In addition to chimpanzees, the forest is alive with other primates such as L’hoest monkeys, vervet monkeys, Mona monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys. While the bird species are fewer here compared to the larger Nyungwe forest, birdwatching still adds charm to the trek. The forest also holds unique tree and plant species, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in botany. Visitors can also explore the nearby Nyirandakunze Cave for a deeper cultural and natural experience.

What to Expect During Chimpanzee Trekking

Chimpanzee trekking involves visiting habituated chimps in their natural forest environment. In Rwanda, this activity takes place only in Nyungwe Forest National Park, including the Cyamudongo section. Treks start early in the morning, and groups are limited to a maximum of eight people, just like gorilla trekking.

Every year, Nyungwe welcomes thousands of visitors who come to watch chimpanzees the closest relatives of humans with 98.7% shared DNA. Observing them feed, play, and communicate in the wild is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trek begins at one of the three park reception centers, where tourists meet rangers before heading to the starting point.

Because chimps build new nests each night, trackers move ahead of the trekking groups to locate them and guide visitors. Once you find the chimps, you are allowed to spend one unforgettable hour watching them in close range. Their behavior is fascinating—ranging from loud hoots and deafening screams to dramatic displays of drumming tree trunks.

Chimpanzee Trekking Permits in Nyungwe

There are 64 chimpanzee trekking permits available per day in Nyungwe Forest. Each permit costs USD 90 per person per trek, which is significantly cheaper than gorilla permits priced at USD 1,500. The fee covers park entrance, ranger services, and guiding.

Permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board, and trekkers must present them at park headquarters on the day of the trek. Because permits sell out quickly, it is essential to book well in advance to secure your preferred dates.

Other Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park

After chimpanzee trekking in Cyamudongo Forest, visitors can extend their adventure with several other experiences in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Bird watching

Nyungwe is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 322 recorded species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics. Star attractions include the striking Red-collared Babbler, Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, and Grauer’s Warbler. With the guidance of expert birding rangers, spotting sunbirds, nightjars, and warblers becomes an enriching experience. Guided birding walks cost USD 50 per day, with discounts for additional days.

Canopy Walk

The canopy walk is among Nyungwe’s top highlights. Suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, the 200-meter-long bridge provides breathtaking views of the rainforest. The activity begins with a one-hour hike from Uwinka Reception Centre and costs USD 60 per person. Along the way, you will see orchids, butterflies, and primates, with chances of encountering several bird species. The entire experience lasts about three hours and is one of the most thrilling ways to appreciate the park’s biodiversity.

Hiking Trails

Nyungwe is interlaced with well-maintained trails that range from short one-hour walks to full-day hikes. Trails such as Isumo, Kamiranzovu, Imbaraga, and Bigugu offer opportunities to explore waterfalls, tea plantations, primate habitats, and panoramic viewpoints. Hiking fees range between USD 40 and USD 100 depending on the chosen trail and duration.

Colobus Monkey Tracking

Nyungwe also shelters the Rwenzori colobus monkey, often found in large groups of up to 400 individuals. Tracking these primates provides a different perspective of Nyungwe’s rich primate population. The trek costs USD 60 per person per day and is best done in the morning when monkeys are most active. Other primates that may be encountered include grey-cheeked mangabeys, owl-faced monkeys, and blue monkeys.

Accommodation in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is surrounded by a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets. Luxury travelers can stay at One & Only Nyungwe House, where rates range from USD 750 to 2,000 per night. Mid-range options include Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, priced from USD 300 per night, while budget travelers can stay at Gisakura Guest House or Nyungwe Forest Lodge, where rates start at USD 200 per night. A minimum of two nights is recommended for a fulfilling experience.

Transportation to Nyungwe Forest

Travelers can reach Nyungwe either by air or by road. RwandAir operates domestic flights between Kigali and Kamembe International Airport, with fares averaging USD 300 per adult. The airport lies close to Nyungwe and several lodges.

Alternatively, visitors can drive from Kigali, which takes approximately 5–6 hours. Road trips are scenic, with stops for photography and cultural encounters along the way. Vehicle hire ranges from USD 80 to 250 per day, depending on the type of car, while driver allowances average USD 50 per day. Fuel for a round trip typically costs around USD 250.

Why Choose Cyamudongo for Chimpanzee Trekking

Cyamudongo offers an intimate trekking experience due to its compact size and concentrated chimpanzee population. Unlike larger forest sections, the chances of spotting chimps are higher, and the trek is often less demanding. Combined with Nyungwe’s birding, canopy walk, hiking trails, and colobus monkey tracking, Cyamudongo becomes a must-visit for primate lovers seeking an authentic and immersive Rwandan adventure.