Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda

Location

Nyungwe Forest National Park is situated in southwest corner of Rwanda at the border with Burundi, to the south, and Lake Kivu and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. The Nyungwe rainforest is probably the best preserved montane rainforest in Central Africa. It is located in the watershed between the basin of the river Congo to the west and the basin of the river Nile to the east. From the east side of the Nyungwe forest comes also one of the branches of the Nile sources. Nyungwe Forest National Park is a vast untouched tropical rainforest with a high, dense canopy.

Historical back ground of Nyungwe forest

Nyungwe forest became a National Park in 2004 as Rwanda sought of promoting tourism beyond the country’s mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park, and is certainly worthy of its status because of its spectacular biodiversity.

Wildlife in Nyungwe Forest

Spreading over 1,020km², Nyungwe Forest National Park includes the largest swathe of remaining montane forest in East or Central Africa. It harbours about 310 different bird species, hundreds of butterflies and orchids, and over 75 different species of mammals – including 13 primates (about a quarter of all Africa's primates). The heart of Nyungwe Forest is like a scene from a fairy tale. Tall old mahoganies, ebonies and giant tree ferns tower above you, whilst orchids and other epiphytes cling to every branch. Brightly coloured birds flit around, butterflies are everywhere, and walking quietly you may even encounter larger forest residents, including a variety of primates for which Nyungwe National Park is renowned.

Chimpanzee Tracking

The majority of the chimpanzee population in Rwanda is confined to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Trekking to see our closet relatives is an amazing experience, although these groups of chimpanzees are wide ranging and there is a 30-40% chance of sighting these primates.

Black and White Colobus Trekking

There are large troops of black and white colobus monkeys residing in Nyungwe Forest. These primates often travel in groups of over 300 individuals. It is possible to purchase a permit to trek these animals. Walking through a montane rainforest and being surrounded on all levels by these active and cheeky monkeys is not to be missed.

Canopy Walkway

A suspended walkway has recently been built in the lush canopy of Nyungwe Forest. This activity lasts 1-2 hours depending on how often you stop en route. You walk to one end of the walkway and return the same way. It is important to note that the walkway does sway and if you have a fear of heights, you might not find this activity enjoyable.

Forest Walks

Extensive networks if well - maintained walking trails leads you through the forest to various waterfalls and viewing points.

Accommodation in Nyngwe Forest

Nyungwe Forest National Park, Nyungwe Forest Camp, Peace Guest House, Nyungwe Hill Top View Hotel, Gisakura Guest House or ORTPN rest House among others.