Nyungwe Forest National Park: A Pristine Natural Wonderland
Situated in the southwestern part of Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park stands as one of Africa’s most ancient and preserved rainforests, a treasure trove of biodiversity and a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike.
Covering over 1,000 square kilometers, this stunning park offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and an impressive variety of flora and fauna.
With its dense forest canopies, cascading waterfalls, and misty mountains, Nyungwe promises an unforgettable experience.
Chimpanzee trekking being its unique activity carried out here.
History of Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest has a long history that stretches back over millennia.
It is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, having survived the last Ice Age, which wiped out many other forests on the continent.
This ancient history has given rise to an incredibly rich biodiversity, with some plant and tree species that are found nowhere else in the world.
The forest’s cultural significance cannot be overlooked either.
For centuries, it has been home to various indigenous peoples, who considered it sacred and relied on it for medicine, food, and spiritual practices.
Nyungwe’s forests were officially designated a national park in 2004, a key move by the Rwandan government to protect its unique ecosystem and encourage ecotourism.
Today, it is one of Rwanda’s most visited tourist destinations and an important contributor to the country’s conservation efforts and local livelihoods.
Wildlife Attractions
Primates
Nyungwe is a primate lover’s paradise, boasting 13 different species of primates, including chimpanzees, which are the park’s star attraction.
Tracking chimpanzees through the dense forest offers visitors an exhilarating experience as they observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat.
Other primates include the rare Ruwenzori colobus monkeys, which move in troops of up to 400 individuals, making it one of the largest known groups of any primate species.
There are also L’Hoest’s monkeys, the grey-cheeked mangabeys, and the blue monkeys.
Birds
With over 320 bird species recorded, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics, Nyungwe is considered a birding hotspot.
The red-collared mountain babbler, Rwenzori turaco, and the great blue turaco are among the species that birders flock to see.
The vibrant plumage and the melodic calls of the birds fill the forest with life.
Other Wildlife
While primates and birds take center stage, Nyungwe is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including; duikers, golden cats, duikers, klipspringers, impalas, Bushbucks, Buffaloes, Elephants, Bushpigs, Gant forest hog, Blotched serval, Carnival genet, Congo clawless, Mongoose, otters, serval, felis, black-fronted duikers, and western tree hyra.
The park has a wide range of reptiles, amphibians, and hundreds of butterfly species that further contribute to its rich biodiversity.
Activities at Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe offers a myriad of activities, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure. Here are the top activities you can enjoy during your visit:
Chimpanzee Trekking
One of the park’s most famous activities, chimpanzee trekking, allows visitors to follow expert guides into the forest early in the morning in search of the park’s chimpanzee families.
These treks usually last for several hours, depending on the location of the chimps, but the reward is well worth it when you spot them swinging from trees or foraging on the forest floor.
Canopy Walk
For a bird-eye view of the forest, the canopy walk is a must-do activity.
The 200-meter-long suspension bridge is perched 50 meters above the forest floor, offering breathtaking views of the lush canopy, and giving visitors a chance to spot birds and primates from a unique vantage point.
Hiking and Nature Walks
With over 130 kilometers of well-maintained hiking trails, Nyungwe is a hiker’s paradise.
The park offers a variety of trails, each with different levels of difficulty and themes.
The Igishigishigi Trail is famous for the canopy walk, while the Bigugu Trail takes you to the highest point in the park, offering stunning views of Lake Kivu and even the distant Virunga volcanoes on a clear day.
Colobus Monkey Tracking
If chimpanzee trekking seems too intense, consider the gentler activity of tracking the Ruwenzori colobus monkeys.
You can see them in large groups as they move through the treetops, often providing excellent photographic opportunities.
Bird Watching
Bird enthusiasts will find Nyungwe a true paradise. With expert bird guides available, visitors can go on birding safaris along designated trails to spot rare species.
Cultural Tours
Nyungwe Forest is not just about wildlife; it’s also a great place to engage with the local culture.
You can visit the nearby communities to learn about traditional Rwandan life, enjoy traditional dances, or partake in the famous tea plantation tours in the Gisakura area.
When to Visit
Nyungwe Forest National Park can be visited year-round, but the best time for most activities is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February.
During these months, the trails are less muddy, and wildlife viewing is more favorable.
However, the rainforest climate means that there can be rain at any time of the year, so be prepared!
How to Plan and Book Your Trip with Gecko Safaris
Planning a trip to Nyungwe Forest National Park is easy with Gecko Safaris Africa, a trusted tour operator in Rwanda.
They offer various tailor-made tours to suit different preferences, whether you’re looking for an intense chimpanzee trekking experience, bird watching tours, or a relaxing nature walk.
Booking Information
You can plan and book your visit by contacting Gecko Safaris via www.visitrwandagorilla.com or info@visitrwandagorilla.com .
We offer customizable tours depending on your interests and budget. Our experienced guides and well-crafted itineraries ensure you get the most out of your trip to Nyungwe.
