Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southwestern Rwanda, is one of Africa’s most ancient and biologically significant rainforests. Established as a national park in 2004 to protect this vital ecosystem, it represents the largest remaining montane forest block in East and Central Africa. The park’s 1,019 square kilometers of pristine rainforest, bamboo, and wetlands form the watershed between two of the world’s greatest rivers, the Congo and the Nile, and are believed to be one of the sources of the Nile. Its remarkable biodiversity, including numerous endemic species found nowhere else, has earned it a global reputation as a conservation priority.

The park is a true paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, celebrated for its exceptional primate diversity. It is home to 13 primate species, representing one-quarter of Africa’s total, including large populations of the eastern chimpanzee and the striking Angolan black-and-white colobus monkey, which can be seen in super-troops of up to 400 individuals. Beyond primates, the forest shelters about 85 mammal species, from golden cats to giant forest hogs, and an astounding variety of birds, with over 300 species recorded, including 30 that are endemic to the Albertine Rift region. This rich tapestry of life is supported by over 1,000 plant species, creating a lush, green world teeming with discovery.

For visitors, Nyungwe offers a range of unforgettable adventures. The most famous activities include chimpanzee trekking, where small groups hike through the forest to observe these intelligent primates in the wild, and the thrilling canopy walk—a suspension bridge perched 50 meters above the forest floor, offering a bird’s-eye view of the ecosystem. The park also boasts an extensive network of over 130 kilometers of hiking trails, suitable for all fitness levels and leading to stunning tropical waterfalls like Kamiranzovu, as well as activities like birdwatching, colobus monkey tracking, and even one of Africa’s longest ziplines.

Practical information for a visit is important to note. The park is about a 5-6 hour drive (225 km) southwest from Kigali, or a 40-minute flight to nearby Kamembe Airport. All visitors must purchase permits in advance for specific activities, either online or through a recognized tour operator. While there are no hotels inside the park, accommodation ranges from tented campsites at Uwinka and Gisakura to luxury lodges on the park’s periphery, such as the One&Only Nyungwe House. The cool, wet climate is consistent year-round, making the forest accessible anytime, though trails may be less muddy during the drier periods.