Best Things To Do on Vacation at Nyungwe Forest National Park

Best Things To Do on Vacation at Nyungwe Forest National Park

Discover some of the most exciting activities to enjoy while on vacation in Nyungwe National Park. Nyungwe National Park is known as Rwanda’s “Lover’s Park” because it offers many intimate pastimes with little outside disturbance. Covering 1,019 square kilometers of lush woodland, the park is located in Rwanda’s south-western region. It is one of the last remaining virgin forests in Africa and is home to over 13 different primate species, including chimpanzees, blue monkeys, Dent’s Mona monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, Angola colobus, silver monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys, among others.

The main activity in Nyungwe Forest National Park is chimpanzee trekking. Thanks to the park’s diverse habitats, you can also enjoy incredible birdwatching, with 283 different bird species 27 of which are endemic. Rare Albertine Rift species such as the Mountain Masked Apalis, Grauer’s Warbler, Red-Collared Mountain Babbler, Kungwe Apalis, and White-Bellied Robin-Chat can be spotted here.

Let’s Explore the Best Things to Do in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Chimpanzee Trekking

Sharing time with chimpanzees while surrounded by nature is a truly memorable experience. To enjoy chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe, you must obtain a permit from the Rwanda Development Board. The park has two groups of habituated chimpanzees some in Uwinka and others in Cyamudongo.

Trekking can take between two to three hours, depending on jungle conditions. Along the way, you might also encounter other primates such as olive baboons, Angolan colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, Hamlyn’s monkeys, Rwenzori colobus, red-tailed monkeys, golden monkeys, and silver monkeys. Cyamudongo, with its steep slopes, has helped protect its chimpanzee population from farming activities, and more than 30 chimpanzees live here.

Before trekking, you will attend a briefing at the Gisaku Reception Center to learn the rules and guidelines. Because chimpanzees have semi-wild behavior, expect quick movements and playful antics. Always be accompanied by a ranger guide for safety and guidance.

Bird Watching in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is a paradise for bird lovers. Its location in the Albertine Rift and dense forest cover make it one of the best birding destinations in Africa. While walking through the forest, you may spot species like the White-bellied Crested Flycatcher, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Kungwe Apalis, Red-collared Mountain Babbler, Rwenzori Turaco, White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, Malachite Sunbird, Mountain Masked Apalis, and Dusky Turtle Dove, among many others.

Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park

One of Nyungwe’s most iconic attractions is the canopy walk a suspension bridge about 91 meters long and 50 meters above the forest floor. This exhilarating experience begins at Uwinka, the park’s administrative center, and follows the Igishigishigi trail. The 90-minute walk offers breathtaking views, opportunities for photography, and the chance to see birds and monkeys from an elevated perspective.

Nature Trail Hikes

Nyungwe offers over 130 kilometers of hiking trails ranging from short walks to multi-day treks. Popular trails include the challenging Imbaraga, the Congo Nile Trail, and the scenic Igishigishigi Trail. Along the way, you’ll discover rivers, waterfalls, and diverse plant life. The Kamiranzovu Waterfall is a highlight its name means “eating an elephant” in the local language, inspired by the swamp that feeds it.

Camping in Nyungwe Forest National Park

For a deeper connection with nature, spend a night camping in Nyungwe. The Uwinka Visitor Center has a camping area where you can pitch a tent, enjoy a bonfire, and fall asleep to the sounds of the forest. Facilities include toilets and a wooden platform for tents.

How to Travel to Nyungwe Forest National Park

By Flight  Rwanda Air offers charter flights from Kigali International Airport to Nyungwe, available upon request with advance booking.

By Road  The drive from Kigali to Nyungwe takes around five hours. Along the way, you can visit attractions such as the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial, the Ethnographic Museum, the Arboretum, and the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza.

Recommended Lodges in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Accommodation ranges from budget to luxury. Top options include:

• Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

• Gisaku Guest House

• Nyungwe Forest Lodge

• Nyungwe House

• Gisaku Family Hostel

Best Time to Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is open year-round. The dry seasons (June–September and December–January) are ideal for trekking, as primates and birds are more active. The wet seasons (March–May and November) are great for seeing newborns, although they can be harder to spot.

What to Bring on a Safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park

• Sturdy hiking boots

• Insect repellent

• Garden gloves for protection

• Refillable water container

• Poncho or raincoat

• Binoculars

• Long-sleeved shirts and pants in natural colors

• Warm layers for cool weather

• Toiletries

• Camera

• Waterproof daypack

Dos and Don’ts in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Do:

• Keep a safe distance from chimpanzees

• Dispose of waste responsibly

• Follow ranger guide instructions

• Limit chimpanzee viewing to one hour

Don’t:

• Eat or smoke near chimpanzees

• Feed wildlife

• Surround or corner primates

• Cough or sneeze toward animals

• Damage vegetation

Why Choose Experiya Tour Company

Experiya Tour Company is a trusted local operator with in-depth knowledge of tours in Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. We design tailor-made itineraries that match your interests and budget, and our expert guides are passionate about the region’s wildlife, culture, and history. With us, you’ll enjoy a personalized, memorable, and responsible travel experience in East Africa.