Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Rwanda’s most rewarding safari destinations, best known for chimpanzee tracking, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking rainforest scenery. Located in the Albertine Rift, southeast of Lake Kivu in southwestern Rwanda, the park was officially established in 2004 and covers approximately 1,019 square kilometers. Today, it stands as one of the country’s must-visit natural attractions.
Nyungwe is particularly famous for chimpanzee trekking, one of Rwanda’s iconic safari experiences. The park protects two habituated chimpanzee groups—one large community of about 60 individuals within the main forest and a second group of approximately 30 chimpanzees found in the Cyamudongo Forest, a smaller section of Nyungwe. In addition to primates, Nyungwe is the largest Afro-montane rainforest in Africa and offers visitors unique activities such as the thrilling canopy walk, which provides sweeping views above the forest canopy.
Location of Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park lies in Rusizi District, southwest Rwanda, bordering Burundi’s Kibira National Park and close to the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park headquarters is located at Uwinka, about 219 kilometers (3–4 hours’ drive) from Kigali. Beyond tourism, Nyungwe plays a vital role in regional climate regulation and water catchment.
The park is home to over 100 mammal species, hundreds of bird species, and an exceptional concentration of primates, making it one of Africa’s most important conservation areas.
Things to Do in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences set against a backdrop of rolling hills, dense rainforest, rivers, and waterfalls.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Chimpanzee trekking is the park’s highlight. Chimpanzees share about 94% of human DNA and display fascinating social behaviors, including tool use and complex group dynamics. Trekking can be challenging, as chimps move quickly through the forest canopy and over large distances. Once located, visitors are allowed one hour with the chimpanzees—enough time to observe their behavior while minimizing disturbance and disease risk.
Bird Watching
Nyungwe is one of East Africa’s premier birding destinations, boasting over 300 bird species, including more than 30 Albertine Rift endemics such as the Rwenzori turaco. Other notable sightings include crowned eagles, hornbills, Congo bay owls, and numerous sunbirds. Specialized birding guides are available and highly recommended.
Canopy Walk
The Nyungwe Canopy Walk is one of the park’s most exciting attractions. This guided experience takes visitors across a 200-meter suspended bridge, about 50 meters above the forest floor, offering panoramic views of the rainforest. Along the way, visitors may spot butterflies, birds, and primates such as blue and red-tailed monkeys. Children under six are not permitted for safety reasons.
Primate Tracking (Colobus & Others)
Nyungwe is home to 13 primate species, including Africa’s largest population of colobus monkeys. Guided primate walks, lasting 2–4 hours, offer opportunities to see grey-cheeked mangabeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, and more.
Nature Walks & Waterfalls
Guided forest walks lead through lush vegetation filled with orchids, butterflies, and towering trees. Popular routes include trails to scenic waterfalls such as Kinyarwanda Waterfall, surrounded by caves, cliffs, and rich wildlife. These walks provide a peaceful yet immersive rainforest experience.
Accommodation in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury eco-lodges to mid-range and budget-friendly facilities. Lodges are carefully selected to ensure comfort, quality service, and immersive nature experiences. Many safari itineraries combine Nyungwe chimpanzee trekking with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, often benefiting from promotional offers by the Rwanda Development Board.
How to Get to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe is easily accessible from Kigali by road. The main entrance is at Uwinka, along the Cyangugu–Butare road. The drive is fully paved, though some sections near Butare may have potholes. Public buses operate along the route, but for comfort and flexibility, hiring a vehicle through a tour operator is recommended.
Alternatively, travelers can approach the park from Cyangugu (Rusizi). Tour operators can arrange seamless transport, guided activities, permits, and accommodation bookings to ensure a smooth safari experience.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a true gem of Rwanda—offering chimpanzee encounters, rich biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and immersive forest adventures—making it an essential stop on any Rwanda safari. For booking, try some of our safaris listed on the website.