2-Day Nyungwe National Park Tour Itinerary
There’s something profoundly humbling about standing beneath a canopy that has existed for millions of years. Nyungwe National Park isn’t just a destination it’s a deep breath of clean air, a symphony of rustling leaves, bird calls, and distant waterfalls. Nestled in Rwanda’s southwestern corner, this ancient tropical rainforest invites you to slow down, connect, and discover a world untouched by time.
Whether you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or someone simply craving a deep, immersive escape into nature, a 2-day journey through Nyungwe offers more than just sights. It’s a feeling a kind of quiet awe you carry home with you.
Day 1: Arrival, Scenic Drive & Canopy Walk Adventure
Morning – Arrival in Rwanda & Transfer to Nyungwe
Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Kamembe International Airport (also known as Cyangugu Airport) the closest airport to Nyungwe National Park, just under an hour’s drive away. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your professional guide who’ll be with you throughout your adventure. Settle into a comfortable 4×4 vehicle and take in your first glimpses of Rwanda’s famed “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
The drive to the park is stunning in itself rolling hills blanketed in tea plantations, winding roads that flirt with the edges of misty valleys, and small villages where time seems to move just a little slower.
Late Morning – Check-In and Lunch
Upon arrival at your lodge near Nyungwe (options include Nyungwe House, Gisakura Guest House, or One & Only Nyungwe House for those seeking a luxury stay), take some time to settle in. Enjoy a fresh, locally-sourced lunch while looking out over the treetops already, you’ll feel the magic of this place.
Afternoon – Canopy Walk Adventure
Your first real taste of the forest comes with the famous Canopy Walkway, one of the top highlights of Nyungwe. Suspended 50 meters above the forest floor and stretching over 160 meters long, the canopy bridge offers jaw-dropping views and a bird’s-eye perspective of this ancient ecosystem.
It’s an exhilarating experience slightly nerve-wracking for some, but completely safe and absolutely unforgettable. As you walk above the trees, you might spot colorful birds flitting below, butterflies dancing on the wind, and perhaps even a glimpse of monkeys swinging in the distance.
Evening – Relaxation & Dinner
Return to your lodge as the sun dips behind the hills. Take a hot shower, sip a local Rwandan tea or chilled drink, and unwind. Dinner is served in the serene ambiance of the lodge expect local delicacies, grilled meats, seasonal vegetables, and warm hospitality.
Overnight in Nyungwe
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking & Waterfall Hike
Early Morning – Chimpanzee Trekking Experience
Wake before dawn and set out for the day’s most thrilling adventure: Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest.
After a short briefing at the park headquarters, you’ll be assigned to a group and a guide who knows the forest like the back of their hand. The hike begins as the forest awakens sunlight piercing the canopy, birds chirping into life, and the earthy smell of the rainforest surrounding you.
Tracking the chimps can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on where the group was last spotted. But when you find them it’s electric. Watching a troop of wild chimpanzees interact in their natural habitat, leaping through trees, grooming, playing, even making eye contact with you it’s one of the most moving wildlife encounters in Africa.
Late Morning – Return & Breakfast
Return to the lodge for a well-earned late breakfast or brunch. Share stories with fellow travelers, browse through your photos, and take a moment to just be you’ve just connected with some of our closest living relatives in the wild.
Midday – Isumo Waterfall Hike (Optional)
If you’re still feeling adventurous, embark on a moderate hike to the Isumo Waterfall, one of the most scenic trails in the park. The walk takes you deeper into the forest, crossing streams and lush vegetation. The reward? A powerful, roaring waterfall hidden in the heart of the jungle refreshing, serene, and perfect for photos.
Alternatively, guests seeking a more relaxed afternoon can visit a nearby tea plantation for a guided walk, learning about tea processing and sampling some of Rwanda’s finest brews.
Afternoon – Scenic Drive Back & Drop-Off at Kamembe Airport
After a quick freshen-up and light refreshment, it’s time to say goodbye to Nyungwe’s emerald embrace. Your guide will drive you back to Kamembe Airport for your onward journey or domestic flight back to Kigali.
Tour Highlights at a Glance:
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Pickup & drop-off at Kamembe International Airport
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Canopy Walkway Adventure – Glide above the treetops with panoramic rainforest views
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Chimpanzee Trekking – Encounter wild chimpanzees up close in their natural habitat
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Isumo Waterfall Hike – Discover a hidden waterfall deep in the forest
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Luxury or budget-friendly lodge options surrounded by nature
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Guided tea plantation experience (optional)
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Experienced, English-speaking guide throughout your trip
What’s Included:
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Airport transfers (Kamembe)
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Park entrance fees and permits (chimp trekking & canopy walk)
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All meals (from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 2)
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1 night accommodation in or near Nyungwe
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Bottled water during excursions
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Professional English-speaking guide/driver
Packing Tips:
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Light hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes
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Long-sleeved shirts & trousers for forest treks
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Rain jacket (the forest can be misty or rainy any time)
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Insect repellent and sunscreen
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Binoculars and camera for wildlife viewing
Final Word
Two days in Nyungwe may be short, but the impact lasts forever. This isn’t just a trip it’s a reminder of the beauty, resilience, and wonder that exists when we protect the wild. Whether it’s your first time in Rwanda or one of many adventures in Africa, Nyungwe will leave a mark on your heart.
