Nyungwe Forest National Park- Travel Tips
What to See, How to Plan & Tours- Natural Scenery
- 5 Reviews
Introduction & Location
Nestled in south-western Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park spans around 1,000 km² of dense montane rainforest and adjacent habitats. Its terrain rises from roughly 1,480 m to nearly 2,950 m, covering bamboo slopes, wetlands and grassland patches within the Albertine Rift region. This expansive forest block is not only one of Africa’s oldest remaining mountain forests — it also plays a critical role as a watershed for the Congo and Nile river systems.
Biodiversity & Natural Highlights
Nyungwe’s biodiversity is extraordinary. Among mammals, 13 species of primates call the park home — including habituated chimpanzees, Ruwenzori colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. For bird-lovers, the forest records over 300 species, many of them endemic to the Albertine Rift. The brilliant great blue turaco is one of the more visible showpieces. Plant life is equally rich: more than 1,000 vascular plant species have been documented, including dozens of orchids and giant lobelias.
What’s more, the forest’s role in feeding major river systems and preserving large tracts of intact montane habitat elevates its conservation importance far beyond tourism.
Visitor Experience & Practical Information
When you visit Nyungwe Forest National Park, expect to engage with nature in multiple ways. One of the most unforgettable activities is the canopy walk — a suspended bridge high above the forest floor, offering sweeping views over the treetops and an unusual vantage point for spotting monkeys and birds. For those with more stamina, trails such as the Igishigishigi and Bigugu routes wind through misty forest, bamboo slopes, and waterfalls. Primate tracking is another highlight: guided treks aim to locate chimpanzees and colobus monkeys in their natural environment. Birding tours likewise cater to enthusiasts seeking Albertine Rift endemics.
- Canopy walk over the treetops
- Hiking trails through forest, bamboo slopes, and waterfalls
- Primate tracking: chimpanzees and colobus monkeys
- Bird-watching tours targeting endemic species
From the logistics side: the park lies about 225 km from Kigali, making a road journey of five to six hours in typical conditions. Accommodation options range from campsites to guesthouses near the park’s edge, including in the western corridor near Gisakura. Visitors should plan ahead, particularly for popular activities that may need reservations or early starts.
Conservation and community are woven into the park experience. A long-term management partnership between the park authority and the non-profit organisation African Parks supports local employment, anti-poaching efforts, and sustainable tourism initiatives. By visiting responsibly, you support the forest’s future and the communities that live alongside it.
Operators offering tours in Rwanda
Reviews of Nyungwe Forest
Chero T - 5
We went to the canopy, approximately 1 hour to & fro. Our guide Paul was absolutely fantastic. He took & directed our pictures … even with a little language barrier we could communicate in English… He told us about the forest & the history of the mountain elephants that were since all murdered by poachers. Very informative. An entrance fee is needed, & is slightly cheaper for east Africans & absolutely worth it. The receptionist at the entrance is very kind & warm. Trip went very well. Hope to be back for the summit hike & cabin camp. Ps. The gift shop needs a boost in stock; it was pretty empty which was such a bummer. Asante.
thekman - 4
Forest in incredible but the prices are insane. As a solo traveler I was asked to pay $190 at Uwinka to walk the 2.5h long basic Umuyove trail and canopy. Add that to the $60 taxi and it’s one expensive short hike - although beautiful. Fun fact, I ended paying only $170 for both me and my driver as it turned out it’s somehow cheaper that way if you go in two and it’s a Rwanda national. Bring your own water bottle as they only fill up here, and for snacks they only sell plain chapatis.
Rukundo “Chris” Willy - 5
Nyungwe National Park's canopy walk is a breathtaking adventure that offers a unique perspective of the lush rainforest 🌿. Walking high above the forest floor on the swaying suspension bridges, we felt immersed in the treetops, enjoying panoramic views and spotting monkeys and colorful birds 🐒🦜. The experience is both exhilarating and peaceful, providing a deep connection to the forest's ecosystem. Guided by knowledgeable experts, the walk felt safe and informative, with every moment offering a new discovery. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or thrill-seeker, the canopy walk at Nyungwe National Park is a must-do, promising unforgettable memories and a profound appreciation for Rwanda's natural beauty. Highly recommended! 🌳🌉
MARCO M. SCHENA - 5
Something unique. An amazing prehistoric forest. We went on the Canopy walking and chimpanzees trekking. We met a big group of them. All visits are guided and the guides are expert, kind and supporting
Róbert Gallé - 5
It is a lovely place, you can walk many kilometres along the paths in the almost natural forest. But you have to have a guide, and it is not a cheap place. Guides are friendly and well-educated about the wildlife.
