Where to see Chimpanzees in Rwanda: Chimp tracking is an adventurous experience and for primate lovers it’s an achievement in life. Chimpanzees are known to be the closest living relatives to humans no wonder they can be friendly to humans. A chimpanzee trek in Rwanda could be a great ideal to explore these amazing creatures. Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda is in Nyungwe Forest National park one of the most visited tourism destinations there, the largest portion of the park is comprised of Cyamudongo forest and Nyungwe forest.
The park is rich in biodiversity with over 1000 species, rivers and streams making it a suitable home to 13 species of primates , 85 mammals, 275 bird species, butterflies and many others. The chimpanzee trek begins with a briefing on what to carry, the trekking location and trails to follow and then setting off. The chimpanzees are mainly found in Cyamudongo forest and Nyungwe forest. On the trek, you are able to enjoy seeing other primates like the olive baboons, Angolan colobus, and vervet monkeys among others, beautiful foliage, butterflies, the sounds of birds, rivers, and streams with fresh water are all present throughout the routes.When a group of chimpanzees is found, visitors are availed 1hr to spend with them, taking pictures, enjoying their presence though they never linger for too long in one area. They pose more difficulties for trackers since they spend more time on top of trees. Before they settle down, one must be prepared to follow them for a longer period of time.
A chimpanzee trek permit costs 90$ for foreign tourists and 60$ for Rwandan tourists in Nyungwe Forest National Park as it the only destination for Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda. Note that chimpanzee trekking is permitted to persons of 15years and above.
Other activities one can enjoy at Nyungwe Forest National Park apart from chimpanzee trekking include;
– Observing other primates likes; the Angola Colobus, the Golden Monkeys and others.
– Bird watching of different species like; Olive and Elliot woodpecker among others.
– Nature walks through the major trails in the forests.
– Canopy walks where one experiences good views of the forests.
What to carry on your Chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe Forest National Park?
– A pair of binoculars to have a close look on the chimpanzees or other species you meet on the way
– A camera for taking pictures and videos of the chimpanzees which enhances the chimpanzee trekking experience
– Water proof boots since you are likely to move on wet ground.
– Carry water to drink along the way and some snacks
– Light trousers and long sleeved shirts.
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