Nyungwe National Park Website

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Nyungwe National Park Rwanda Travel Guide

Situated in the southwest of Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to some of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems. Nyungwe is one of the few parks with primates in Rwanda with the other being Gishwati; where chimps are trekked and Volcanoes National Park; where Rwanda gorilla trekking takes place. Burundi shares a portion of the border with Nyungwe National Park. There are many different species of chimpanzees, owl-faced monkeys, and colobus monkeys living in this vast jungle. Situated on the Igishigishigi Trail, the Canopy Walkway is a high suspension bridge that provides a breathtaking view of the valley and surrounding forests. The Kamiranzovu Marsh, home to a variety of birds, orchids, and waterfalls, is also accessible by a trail. With three lakes, the Nyungwe Forest covers roughly 331 square miles. One of them, Lake Burera, was formed in 1957 when the dam was built. The smaller but equally wildlife-rich Ngezi and Nyungwe Lakes are the other two. Numerous plant, animal, and bird species are supported by the forest. At least 150 different species of mammals, including elephants, rhinos, chimpanzees, zebras, antelopes, leopards, lions, hyenas, and many more, as well as over 300 different species of birds, have been documented in the region. The park is home to various snake species. One of Rwanda’s most stunning and environmentally varied locations is Nyungwe Forest. Nyungwe Forest National Park is well-known for having the world’s largest active canopy walkway. It travels across more than 80 species of mammals and 11 environments. The Big Chimp Falls, a waterfall, is one of the hike’s highlights. The moniker originates from a chimpanzee-face-like rock feature characterized by massive twin cascades that stretch 100 meters in length. Trekking over the trails of Nyungwe Forest National Park is fun and interesting. It is a fantastic chance to discover more about the local flora and animals while taking in the breathtaking splendor of Rwanda’s natural surroundings. The Baboon Cliff, where baboons roam freely and scale the cliffs, is one of the park’s most fascinating attractions. The baboons appear to love the attention, so visitors are frequently enticed to feed them. Watching the animals can be exciting, but it’s best to be cautious and avoid getting too close to them. Visitors may enjoy a delicious picnic lunch next to the cave, where they can try regional cuisine prepared with locally grown fruits such as avocados and bananas. Rice, chips, and drinks are served with grilled fish and hog among other meals. It’s a truly remarkable experience!

Nyungwe National Park Entry Fees

Below are the Nyungwe National Park entrance fees.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe

Chimpanzee trekking is the main activity carried out in Nyungwe Forest National Park. It is the most popular tourist activity in Nyungwe Forest and in Cyamudongo Forest, also part of the national park located in the eastern part of the park. Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to the highest chimpanzee population in Rwanda, with a smaller population found in Gishwati Mukura National Park situated in the west of Rwanda, south of Volcanoes National Park. Nyungwe Forest National Park is also home to 12 other interesting primate species that visitors are likely to encounter during chimpanzee trekking. These include olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, Angola colobus monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, silver monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, mona monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys among other species.

Chimpanzee Trekking Experience in Nyungwe and Cyamudongo Forests

Two chimpanzee troops have been habituated for trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park. One troop (about 60 individuals) is found in Nyungwe Forest and the second troop (about 30 individuals) in Cyamudongo Forest. A chimpanzee trekking permit grants access to anyone who wants to trek the chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park. This permit costs $150 for foreign non-residents, $75 for foreign residents (in Rwanda and the East African community), and $25 for Rwandan and East African citizens. It is recommended to book/purchase your trekking permit in advance as there are only 24 chimpanzee trekking permits available per day. A maximum of 8 visitors are permitted to trek a particular habituated troop of chimpanzees during the trek. Visitors aged 16 years and older are the only ones eligible to take part in chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Chimpanzee trekking is carried out very early in the morning, starting with a briefing at any of the three Nyungwe park offices, including the main offices (headquarters) at Uwinka, Gisakura, and Kitabi, depending on the sector that you are visiting. The park rangers will give you guidelines to follow during the chimpanzee trekking experience. The chimpanzee trekking experience takes about 1-6 hours, depending on the movements and location of the habituated group you are trekking. Chimpanzees are very playful and active, so they are always swinging from one tree to another. Once you locate them, you will spend an hour with them.

Chimpanzee Trekking Tips

• Wear comfortable hiking boots or shoes.
• Carry a lightweight raincoat or waterproof poncho, long-sleeved shirt/top, and long pants/trousers.
• Bring enough drinking water for the trek. Do not feed the primates.
• Carry a camera and extra batteries. Do not use the flash while taking pictures.
• Maintain a safe distance from the chimpanzees and any other animals you encounter in the forest.
• Respect the chimpanzees by not littering their home.
• If you are feeling unwell, do not take part in the chimpanzee trekking activity.

Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe is available year-round, but the best time to take part in the activity is during the dry season (June to September) when the trails are drier, and the vegetation is not too thick, allowing for easier spotting of the primates among the tree branches. Combine the chimpanzee trekking experience with other activities available in and around Nyungwe Forest National Park for a fully rewarding Rwanda safari experience.

Nyungwe Chimpanzee Permits

Chimpanzee trekking is the most popular activity in and around Nyungwe Forest National Park. This experience attracts numerous visitors who wish to see the playful chimpanzees in their natural habitat. A Rwanda chimpanzee permit is required for anyone wishing to participate in this activity. It grants access to Nyungwe Forest or Cyamudongo Sector for a guided chimpanzee trekking experience, which typically lasts 1-6 hours depending on the location of the chimpanzees, followed by an hour of observation. Upon arrival at Nyungwe Forest National Park’s offices, the park warden will ask you to present your chimpanzee trekking permit and identification for verification before you join a group to trek one of the habituated chimpanzee troops.

Cost of the Chimpanzee Trekking Permit

EAC FR = East African Foreign ResidentNote:

• The rate is per person per trek. After the trekking experience, the permit is no longer valid and cannot be reused.
• Only visitors aged 16 years and above are eligible to participate in chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
• The cost includes park ranger guides who escort and guide you for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
• The cost excludes entrance fees to the national park and any other activities offered in the park.

How to Get a Nyungwe Chimpanzee Permit

Once you decide to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park for a chimpanzee trekking experience, you should immediately book or purchase your trekking permit in advance. This can be done through your tour operator, who will help you check for the availability of permits on your selected date and make the necessary reservations. Alternatively, you can directly contact the Nyungwe Management Company (African Parks) by phone or email to book and pay for your chimpanzee trekking permit.

Nyungwe Chimpanzee Permit Availability

There are over three habituated chimpanzee communities/troops in the national park, and only eight visitors are allowed to trek a particular habituated chimpanzee troop in a day. Therefore, over 24 chimpanzee permits are available per day in Nyungwe Forest National Park. It is highly recommended to reserve or buy your Nyungwe chimpanzee permits in advance, especially if you plan on visiting the park during the dry season (June – September), which is the peak time for visits, as well as over the weekends.

Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

To participate in the Nyungwe canopy walk experience, visit Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda, famously known for chimpanzee trekking. The canopy walk is a thrilling adventure for adrenaline lovers and those without height fears, as the walkway is suspended 70 meters above the Nyungwe forest floor over a thickly forested deep valley. The Nyungwe canopy walk experience is an activity that any visitor to Nyungwe Forest National Park should include in their itinerary.

What You Need to Know About the Nyungwe Canopy Walk Experience:

• It is a guided nature experience requiring an experienced park guide. Unguided canopy walks are not allowed.
• Done on the Nyungwe canopy walkway suspended 70 meters above the ground over the forest’s tree tops.
• Starting from the park’s headquarters at Uwinka, the canopy walk experience takes about 1-2 hours.
• Begins with an hour’s forest walk along the Igishigishigi trail leading to the canopy walkway. The hike to the canopy walkway is suitable for anyone.
• The minimum age for visitors to participate in the Nyungwe canopy walk experience is 6 years, and adults must accompany children.
• Expect great views of the forest from above, characterized by beautiful shades of green, views of primates swinging in the tree tops, birds flying over the forest, and views of Lake Kivu.
• The canopy walk experience is available year-round but is best experienced during the dry months of June to September.
• Conducted throughout the day at different times: 8:00 am, 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm.
• The cost of the canopy walk experience is $40 for international visitors, $20 for foreign residents in Rwanda and East Africa, and $5 for Rwandan and East African citizens.
• Don’t forget to carry a lightweight raincoat and well-fitting hiking boots/shoes.
• Combine the Nyungwe canopy walk experience with other activities within Nyungwe Forest National Park for a full, rewarding wildlife experience, including chimpanzee trekking, birding, hiking, forest walks, and cultural tours.

What to See in Nyungwe

Chimpanzees are the main tourist attraction in the forested national park located in southwest Rwanda. With 13 primate species, over 300 bird species, over 100 butterfly species, over 70 known mammals, and thousands of plant and tree species, there is a lot to see for visitors to this evergreen rain-forest.

Tourist Attractions in Nyungwe Forest National Park

• Chimpanzees: These great apes are the main attraction in the park. Many visit the park to track the playful chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest and Cyamudongo Forest, both within Nyungwe Forest National Park.
• Other Primates: Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to 13 different primate species, including the Angolan colobus monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, Dent’s mona monkeys, olive baboons, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Hamlyn’s monkeys, vervet monkeys, silver monkeys, golden monkeys (rarely sighted), red-tailed monkeys, and the Ruwenzori colobus.
• Nyungwe’s Birdlife: Over 300 different bird species call the park home, including 29 endemics to the Albertine Rift. Nyungwe Forest is one of the hottest destinations for bird lovers. Commonly sighted species include the great blue turaco, Archer’s robin-chat, handsome francolin, Chapin’s flycatcher, Kungwe apalis, long-tailed cuckoo, Ruwenzori batis, grey-chested kakamega, Shelley’s crimson-wing, mountain sooty boubou, red-collared mountain babbler, yellow-eyed black flycatcher, Rwenzori double-collared warbler, purple-throated sunbird, and Ruwenzori nightjar, among many others.
• Nyungwe Forest Mammals: The forest is home to about 75 known mammals, including duikers, serval cats, bush pigs, bushbucks, giant forest hogs, and the Congo clawless otter.
• Numerous Hiking and Walking Trails: The park has about 140 km² of hiking trails that take visitors to different destinations within the park, including waterfalls, marshes, and Mt. Bigugu, the highest point in the national park.
• Canopy Walk: This is a walkway suspended over Nyungwe Forest, about 70 meters off the ground, which gives visitors a chance to view the park from a bird’s-eye view. It is an experience not to be missed by anyone visiting the park.

What to Do in Nyungwe (Activities)

Nyungwe Forest National Park is mostly famous for chimpanzees, making chimpanzee trekking the main attraction for visitors. However, there are other interesting tourist activities in the forested park that visitors can combine with chimpanzee trekking:

Tourist Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park

• Chimpanzee Trekking: This is the main attraction that draws most visitors to the park. It offers a chance to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The activity starts very early in the morning, around 5 or 6:00 am, with a briefing at either the Uwinka Visitor Center, Katabi, or Gisakura. Visitors trek in groups of 8 and spend one hour observing the chimpanzees in the rainforest.
• Canopy Walk: The canopy walkway in Nyungwe is the only one of its kind in East Africa. This experience is suitable for all adults and children aged 6 and above, accompanied by an adult. The walk takes about 2 hours along the 160-meter long walkway, which hangs approximately 70 meters above the forest floor.
• Colobus Monkey Trekking: Conducted in both Nyungwe and Cyamudongo forests, this activity involves trekking to see about 400 black and white colobus monkeys. Similar to chimpanzee trekking, it starts early in the morning.
• Bird Watching: With over 300 bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics, Nyungwe is a hotspot for bird lovers. Guided tours by experienced park guides can help visitors spot species like Kungwe Apalis, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Chapin’s Flycatcher, Rwenzori Batis, Archer’s Robin-Chat, Rockefeller’s Sunbird, Great Blue Turaco, and many more.
• Hiking and Forest Walks: Nyungwe has about 13 hiking trails, each offering stunning views. These trails range from 1-8 hours or even days, depending on preferences. The Igishigishigi Trail is the shortest, while the Congo Nile Divide is the longest. You can also engage in guided night walks.
• Waterfall Hike: This hike leads to the famous Kamiranzovu Waterfall, the biggest waterfall within the park.
• Cultural Tours: Visitors can explore neighboring villages or communities to experience Rwandan culture and the lifestyles of the people living around the park.

Combine any of these activities for a memorable safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Facts About Nyungwe

Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Rwanda’s top tourist destinations. It is home to wild chimpanzees and other primate species, with chimpanzees being the main attraction. This makes chimpanzee trekking a top activity in both Nyungwe Forest and Cyamudongo Forest. Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of only four national parks in Rwanda. Below are some of it’s facts.

Amazing Facts About Nyungwe Forest National Park

• Established as Nyungwe Forest National Park in 2004 under the management of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
• The Nyungwe Management Company, created in 2010, manages the park, resulting from a partnership between the RDB and African Parks, a non-profit conservation organization.
• Located in southern Rwanda, southeast of Lake Kivu, and adjacent to Kibira National Park in northern Burundi.
• Accessible from Kigali by road or air.
• Covers an area of 1,019 km², with 970 km² of forest.
• Features evergreen montane rainforest, swampy wetlands, marshes, grasslands, waterfalls, bamboo forest, and Mt. Bigugu, the park’s highest point at 2,150 meters.
• Home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, Angolan colobus monkeys, olive baboons, grey-cheeked mangabeys, red-tailed monkeys, silver monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, mona monkeys, vervet monkeys, Hamlyn’s monkeys, and blue monkeys.
• A top birding destination with over 300 bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics.
• Hosts over 1,000 plant species and approximately 140 orchid species.
• Features over 100 butterfly species.
• Contains 75 known mammal species, including the Congo clawless otter, mongoose, serval cat, duikers, giant forest hogs, and bushbucks.
• Has well-established hiking/walking trails (about 15 trails), including Uwinka Trail, Congo Nile Divide Trail, Igishigishigi Trail, and Kamiranzovu Trail.

Location of Nyungwe

Covering 1,019 square kilometers, Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in southern Rwanda, on the border with Burundi, adjacent to Kibira National Park in Burundi, and southeast of Lake Kivu, which it shares with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park’s topography includes an old montane rainforest, swampy wetlands, bamboo forests, bogs, grassland, and Mt. Bigugu, the highest point at 2,150 meters above sea level. Cyangungu town is the nearest town to Nyungwe Forest National Park, providing another access point.

Map of Nyungwe Park

Getting to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park can be accessed by road or domestic air transfers from Kigali or other tourist destinations within Rwanda, such as Akagera National Park and Volcanoes National Park.

By Road:

• The distance from Kigali City to Nyungwe Forest National Park is approximately 240 km, taking about 5-6 hours without stopovers by private or public means.
• Visitors from Volcanoes National Park, Gishwati-Mukura National Park, and Lake Kivu can also access Nyungwe Forest National Park by road on scenic drives if their Rwanda safari includes these destinations.
• The three primary entrances to the park are Butare Gate in the west, Ruhengeri Gate in the east, and Kibuye Gate in the south. The Gisenyi Gate in the north has now reopened to the public, and Rusizi District will soon see the opening of a fifth gate.
• Visitors can take a one-day rail trip from Kigali to Butare and then continue by taxi to the park. This is a convenient and reasonably priced option.

Day visits to the park are available from other Rwandan cities and even from other East African nations where travel agencies regularly run tours.

By Air:

• Kamembe Airport in Rusizi is close to Nyungwe Forest National Park, and visitors can book a domestic flight transfer from Kigali Airport to Kamembe Airport via RwandAir or any charter aircraft airline operating in Rwanda.
• Visitors can also take helicopter transfers to the park from Kigali or any other national park. This service is offered by Akagera Aviation.

Driving Time and Distance Between Nyungwe and Other Locations

Where to Stay in Nyungwe

There are very many accommodation options for Nyungwe; ranging from budget, mid-range and luxury. Some of the best options are One&Only Nyungwe House, Mantis Kivu Marina Hotel, Nyungwe Top Hill View Hotel and many more.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nyungwe

Here are 30 of the most popular frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda:

1. Where is Nyungwe National Park located? Nyungwe National Park is situated in the southwest of Rwanda, bordering Burundi.
2. What types of animals can I see in Nyungwe National Park? You can see chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, baboons, and many other primate species, as well as various mammals and birds.
3. What is the main attraction of Nyungwe National Park? The main attraction is chimpanzee trekking, where visitors can see chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
4. How much does it cost to enter Nyungwe National Park? Entry fees range from $5 for Rwandan/East African citizens to $100 for foreign non-residents.
5. How long does it take to drive from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park? The drive from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park takes approximately 6.5 hours and covers a distance of 225 km.
6. What is the Nyungwe Canopy Walk? The Nyungwe Canopy Walk is a high suspension bridge, 70 meters above the forest floor, offering stunning views of the forest.
7. How much does the Canopy Walk cost? The Canopy Walk costs $5 for Rwandan/East African citizens, $20 for foreign residents, and $40 for foreign non-residents.
8. What species of primates can be found in Nyungwe? Nyungwe is home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys.
9. What are the hiking options in Nyungwe National Park? There are over 140 km of hiking trails in Nyungwe, including trails to waterfalls, lakes, and mountain peaks.
10. Can I camp in Nyungwe National Park? Yes, camping is allowed in designated areas, and the camping fee is $15 per night.
11. When is the best time to visit Nyungwe for chimpanzee trekking? The best time to visit for chimpanzee trekking is during the dry season, from June to September.
12. How long does chimpanzee trekking take? Chimpanzee trekking can last between 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzees.
13. What should I wear for chimpanzee trekking? Wear comfortable hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and carry a lightweight raincoat or poncho.
14. What bird species can be seen in Nyungwe? Nyungwe is home to over 300 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics like the great blue turaco and Ruwenzori batis.
15. Are there any waterfalls in Nyungwe National Park? Yes, Kamiranzovu Waterfall is one of the highlights of the park.
16. Is Nyungwe National Park accessible by air? Yes, Kamembe Airport in Rusizi is the nearest airport, and domestic flights are available from Kigali.
17. Can I feed the animals in Nyungwe National Park? No, feeding the animals is not allowed as it disrupts their natural behavior.
18. What is the minimum age for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe? Visitors must be at least 16 years old to participate in chimpanzee trekking.
19. How many chimpanzee trekking permits are available each day? A total of 24 permits are available per day, with only 8 visitors allowed per trekking group.
20. How can I book a chimpanzee trekking permit? Permits can be booked through a tour operator or directly from the Nyungwe Management Company.
21. What are the accommodation options in Nyungwe National Park? There are budget, mid-range, and luxury options, including One&Only Nyungwe House and Nyungwe Top Hill View Hotel.
22. What precautions should I take during chimpanzee trekking? Maintain a safe distance from the chimpanzees, avoid using flash photography, and do not litter in the forest.
23. Are guided hikes available in Nyungwe National Park? Yes, guided hikes are available, and they provide an opportunity to explore the park’s biodiversity.
24. Can I do a canopy walk without a guide? No, the canopy walk must be done with a guide for safety reasons.
25. What is the Baboon Cliff in Nyungwe? Baboon Cliff is an area where baboons can be seen roaming freely, and visitors are advised to keep a safe distance.
26. What is the climate like in Nyungwe National Park? Nyungwe has a tropical rainforest climate, with high humidity and frequent rain, especially during the rainy season.
27. How much does chimpanzee trekking cost? Chimpanzee trekking permits cost $150 for foreign non-residents, $75 for foreign residents, and $25 for Rwandan/East African citizens.
28. Can I combine different activities in Nyungwe National Park? Yes, visitors can combine chimpanzee trekking with canopy walks, bird watching, and hiking for a full experience.
29. What is the Big Chimp Falls in Nyungwe? Big Chimp Falls is a waterfall in the park, named after a rock formation resembling a chimpanzee face.
30. What types of plants are found in Nyungwe National Park? Nyungwe is home to over 1,000 plant species, including orchids, ferns, and towering trees typical of montane forests.

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