Nyungwe Forest National Park Rwanda

Nyungwe is rich in biodiversity and spectacularly beautiful. Primate tracking tops most visitors’ lists, but it’s worth lingering a little longer for those with time to relax and take in the primal atmosphere.

Botanists will marvel at the 1,068 plant species and 140 orchids. The birding trips are among the best in Africa with 322 bird species including Red-collared Babbler and 29 other Albertine Rift Endemic species. Butterflies are also a common sight, with at least 120 species.

The mountainous region is teaming with wildlife, including a small population of Chimpanzees as well as 12 other species of primate, including the L’Hoest monkey endemic to the Albertine Rift. With 15 trails, some of which are detailed on the official website here, along with various other activities, visitors can choose to sample the delights of the forest or indulge themselves for a week or more in one of Africa’s most stunning forests.

There are 75 known mammals in Nyungwe, such as the Serval cat, mongoose, Congo clawless otter, and leopard to name but a few. Many tend to be shy so sightings are luck of the draw.

Memorable and photogenic moments include walking up to the Isumo waterfall or along the canopy walk suspension bridge. Tea plantation borders the edges of the park, with a habituated troop of Ruwenzori colobus monkeys at Gisakura as well as forest fringe birds.

With plenty of rainfall, Nyungwe is also the major catchment area in Rwanda and supplies water to 70% of the country.

Size

Nyungwe Forest National Park covers an area of approximately 970 km2 of rainforest, bamboo, grassland, swamps, and bogs. 

Location

Nyungwe National Park lies in southwest Rwanda, partly abutting the Burundi border with Kibira National Park. 

Things to do in Nyungwe Forest National Park

• Chimpanzee trekking experience
• Bird watching
• Monkey trekking
• Forest walks and hiking trails
• Canopy walks

When to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park

The best time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park is from late May to early September and from December to February.

Where to stay in Nyungwe Forest National Park?

Nyungwe Forest has a variety of accommodation facilities near the area and clients can easily choose to either stay at the Luxury One & only Nyungwe house or they can alternatively stay at the mid-range Nyungwe hilltop view lodge.