Nyungwe National Park Rwanda
Nyungwe National Park Rwanda: Africa's Oldest Rainforest
Hidden deep in Rwanda’s southwest, Nyungwe National Park Rwanda is a 1,019 km² ancient rainforest that survived the last Ice Age—one of Africa’s rare untouched ecosystems. Today it is home to 13 primate species, including one of East Africa’s largest chimpanzee populations, hundreds of Angolan colobus monkeys, and nearly 300 bird species, 27 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift.
Whether you are here for the adrenaline of Chimpanzee Trekking, the breathtaking views from the Canopy Walkway, or to search for rare Albertine Rift endemics, Nyungwe Forest National Park delivers a wilderness experience that rivals any in East Africa.
Things to Do in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe is a playground for active travelers. From adrenaline-filled hikes to peaceful nature walks, here are the experiences that define the park.
Chimpanzee Trekking
While Volcanoes National Park is famous for gorillas, Nyungwe is the domain of the chimpanzee. The park protects over 400 individuals, with two habituated communities available for tracking.
The Experience: Trekking here is an active adventure. You will traverse steep mountain slopes and dense vegetation. Once located, the forest explodes with sound—pant-hoots, screams, and drumming on tree buttresses. You spend one distinct hour observing them play, groom, and interact.
Success Rate: Unlike gorillas, chimps are fast movers. Success rates are approximately 60-70%, making the encounter a rewarding challenge rather than a guarantee.
Cost: Permits are $150 per person, making this a significantly more affordable primate experience compared to gorillas.
Nyungwe Canopy Walkway
Suspended 50 meters above the ravine, the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway offers a perspective usually reserved for birds.
The Views: This 160-meter bridge allows you to gaze across the ancient canopy to distant mountains and look down through layers of rare vegetation.
Logistics: The experience requires a moderate 1-2 hour hike along the beautiful Igishigishi Trail to reach the bridge.
Cost: Permits are $60 per person and can easily be combined with a morning trek.
Colobus Monkey Tracking
For those seeking a more relaxed but equally visual primate experience, tracking the Angolan Colobus monkeys is a highlight. Nyungwe hosts super-troops numbering over 300 individuals—some of the largest groups in Africa. Watching hundreds of these black-and-white primates leap through the trees is a spectacle you won’t forget.
Hiking Trails in Nyungwe Forest
With 15 well-maintained trails, the hiking here is world-class.
| Trail Name | Distance | Duration | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Igishigishigi | 2.1 km | 1.5 hrs | Easy | Canopy Walk |
| Isumo Waterfall Trail | 10.6 km | 3–5 hrs | Moderate | Waterfall, monkeys |
| Kamiranzovu Marsh | 6 km | 3–4 hrs | Moderate | Wetland, orchids |
| Bigugu Trail | 13.2 km | 6–8 hrs | Hard | Summit 2,950m |
| Uwinka Ridge Trails | Various | 2–6 hrs | Easy–Hard | Forest birds, primates |
| Congo–Nile Divide Trail | 42 km | Multi-day | Hard | Epic forest traverse |
Best for beginners: Igishigishigi
Best for serious hikers: Bigugu Summit
Bird watching in Nyungwe Forest : An Albertine Rift Paradise
For ornithologists, Nyungwe is non-negotiable. The park hosts nearly 300 bird species, including 27 Albertine Rift Endemics that are found only in this specific mountain region. Target Species include:
Great Blue Turaco (The icon of the park)
Rwenzori Turaco
Red-collared Babbler
Congo Bay Owl (Rare, found near Kamiranzovu)
Grauer’s Swamp Warbler
Purple-breasted Sunbird
Peak birding season: October–April (breeding & migratory seasons)
Best Time to Visit Nyungwe Forest
Dry Season (Best Overall): June–Sept & Dec–Feb
Best hiking conditions
Good chimp tracking visibility
Less rain, easier photography
Wet Season (Best for Birding): Mar–May & Oct–Nov
Forest lush & beautiful
Peak bird activity
Trails can be muddy
What We Recommend
General travelers: June–September
Birders & photographers: October–April
Families: December holidays & dry season
Nyungwe national park fees 2025/26
| Activity | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Park Entrance Fee | $100/day |
| Chimpanzee Trekking Permit | $150 |
| Canopy Walk Permit | $60 |
| Colobus Monkey Tracking | Included in park fee |
| Waterfall/Hiking Trails | Included (guide required) |
Why Choose Hope Tours Africa for your Nyungwe Safari?
Nyungwe is complex. Chimpanzees move daily, weather changes instantly, and permit timings are strict. You need a partner who understands the logistics. We specialize in seamless Rwanda itineraries that combine the intensity of Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park with the biodiversity of Nyungwe. We handle the permits, the 4×4 transport, and the expert guides so you can focus on the forest.
Book your Nyungwe and Gorilla safari Tour
Where to Stay Near Nyungwe Forest National Park?
Accommodation around Nyungwe has evolved to suit both luxury seekers and adventure travelers.
1. One&Only Nyungwe House (Ultra-Luxury) Set on a working tea plantation on the forest edge, this is one of Rwanda’s finest hotels. It offers world-class dining, spa facilities, and unmatched views. It is the perfect choice for those who want to combine rugged trekking with supreme comfort.
2. Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel (Mid-Range) Perched high on a ridge, this hotel offers exactly what its name suggests: panoramic views of the forest canopy and distant volcanoes. It provides comfortable rooms and easy access to the park headquarters.
3. Mantis Epic Hotel (Luxury/Business) A modern option with excellent amenities, beautiful grounds, and attentive service, located slightly further from the park entrance but offering a high standard of comfort.
FAQs About Nyungwe Forest National Park Rwanda
Is Nyungwe worth visiting if I already did gorilla trekking?
Yes. Gorilla trekking is emotional and intimate, but Nyungwe offers something entirely different dense ancient rainforest, chimpanzees, the canopy walk, incredible hiking trails, and rare birdlife. Most travelers say Nyungwe completes their Rwanda experience.
How difficult is chimp trekking in Nyungwe?
The trek ranges from moderate to challenging due to steep slopes and forest density. Trek duration is 2–6 hours depending on chimp movements. Reasonable fitness is recommended.
Can I combine Nyungwe with Volcanoes National Park?
Absolutely. Many travelers combine chimps in Nyungwe with gorillas in Volcanoes, plus an optional extension to Lake Kivu.
What is the difference between Gorilla Trekking and Chimp Trekking?
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP is generally slower-paced and guarantees a sighting (99%). Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe is faster, more chaotic, and involves chasing active primates through the forest with a sighting success rate of about 60-70%.
How much does the Chimpanzee Permit cost?
A chimpanzee trekking permit in Nyungwe costs $150 per person + $100 entrance fee . This includes park guides and one hour with the chimpanzees.
What should I pack for Nyungwe?
This is a rainforest. Essential items include waterproof hiking boots, a rain jacket (poncho), long pants and long-sleeved shirts (for protection against vegetation and insects), insect repellent, and a warm layer for cool mornings.
Can I do the Canopy Walk and Chimpanzee in one day?
Yes, it is possible. Many visitors trek chimps in the early morning (starts at 5:00 AM) and do the Canopy Walk in the afternoon. However, flexibility is key as trek times vary.
How many days do I need in Nyungwe?
2–3 days is ideal for chimps, canopy walk, and waterfall hikes. Serious birders and hikers often spend 4–5 days.
Explore More of Rwanda
- Guide to Volcanoes National Park – The home of the Mountain Gorillas.
- Rwanda Safari Packages
- Best Time to Visit Rwanda – A month-by-month weather guide.
More Parks & Sites To Explore
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, stands as one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations and the crown jewel of Rwanda’s conservation success story.
Akagera National Park
As the only haven for savannah wildlife in Rwanda, Akagera National Park is the best place to visit in this land of a thousand hills for game safaris.
Cultural & Community Tours
Hidden deep in Rwanda’s southwest, Nyungwe National Park Rwanda is a 1,019 km² ancient rainforest that survived the last Ice Age—one of Africa’s rare untouched ecosystems.
Lake Kivu Muhazi
Lake Kivu/Muhazi. Scenery is the greatest gift of nature that compliments RWANDA’s beautiful and rich national parks, places where you can take a break and do some relaxing activities
Gishwati Mukura National Park
In the heart of the Albertine Rift, is Nyungwe Forest the largest high-altitude montane forest in East and Central Africa, and one of the oldest forests Africa.