Canopy Walk way in Nyungwe is a 160m long and 70m high suspension bridge accessible as part of a guided tour along the Igishigishigi Trail, or to those hiking the Imbaraga or Umuyove Trails. This walk way is the highest suspension of this kind in Africa debuted in 2017 as an addition for experience in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest
The Igishigishigi Trail is one of the several hiking trails in Nyungwe Forest and it leads to the canopy walk way, the canopy walk tour therefore includes hiking over the 2.1km
long Igishigishigi route with the canopy walk way serving as a type of a bridge along this looped track.
The canopy walk in Nyungwe is 160 meters long and hangs 70 meters above the ground across a steep valley densely forested with trees. This canopy walk can also be accessed from Imbaraga and Umuyove trails in Nyungwe Forest.
Canopy walk in Nyungwe National Park is one of the most thrilling experience in Rwanda perfect for nature enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies, this iconic experience provides stunning views of Nyungwe Forest (East Africa’s largest and oldest Afro- montane forest. It also provides visitors opportunity to witness species such as monkeys and birds that dwell in the forest canopies that are difficult to see from the ground.
Canopy walk is a two-hour guided hike leading to the forest canopy beginning at the Uwinka Visitor Centre. Every day, this thrilling journey begins at 8 am and finishes at 10 am, with evening excursions commencing at 3 pm. The canopy walk and trek is a fun and thrilling experience that takes you through the 200m canopy walk path.
For travelers who are afraid of the heights, this is the most difficult part of the trek.
The trails leading to the Canopy can be perilous and hard to navigate that is why you need to be physically fit, patient and persistent. Using suitable hiking footwear is recommended.
While on the canopy walk, lookout for beautiful butterflies, bird species and several primates such as blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys as the cross the bridge.
The canopy walk always you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the forest, filled with hardwood trees in the upper half and a wide variety of purple orchids with lush, green flora in the lower portion of the forest canopy.
Cost of Canopy Walk in Nyungwe
As per 2024, the canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park costs US$ 40 per person.
Note: in addition to the canopy fee, each visit has to pay a park entrance fee of $ 100 per person per day, US$ 150 per person for visiting staying 2 days in Nyungwe and $ 200 per person for those staying three nights.
What is the age limit for Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park?
Only persons aged 6 years and above are accepted to do the canopy walk in Nyungwe. However, children aged 6-10 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Best Time for the Canopy Walk in Nyungwe
Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park is open to visitors all year round, however the best time to visit the park for this thrilling experience is during the season. Unfortunately, there is a good chance of rain when climbing, so carry a raincoat with you on the day of canopy walk.
The canopy walk is one of a kind and amazing experience for adrenaline junkies, but for those who are terrified of heights, it may be defined as an unending journey to hell. Nyungwe Forest National Park is the only place in East Africa where such as stunning canopy trek is worthwhile.
How fit should one be for the Canopy Walk in Nyungwe National Park?
To take part in canopy walk experience in Nyungwe Forest National Park, tourists should be free of any health conditions that may interfere with the ascent. Individuals with heart difficulties or lung disorders that may cause shortness of breath should avoid engaging in the workout.
A canopy walk is not suggested for anyone who is afraid of heights or suffers from acrophobia. All tourists participating in the activity, however must follow the rules established by the park guides.
Getting to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Visitors interested in canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park can access the park by car from Kigali, the capital of Rwanda or by flying into Kigali International Airport. It is approximately 190 kilometers and takes around 6 hours of drive along a well-surfaced highway.
Visitors who want to fly can book charter flights with RwandAir, the country’s main airline, from Kigali International Airport to Kamembe, which is close to the Nyungwe. Then drive for approximately 10 minutes to the park. There are also private planes from Akagera Aviation that land at One and Only Nyungwe House.
