Canopy Walk in Rwanda provides a more thrilling and unforgettable way to experience Nyungwe Forest National Park. You will walk through the forest canopy and deep ravines where lots of primates, birds and outstanding tree species can be spotted.
The exceptional canopy walkway hangs above a deep gorge in the verdant montane Nyungwe forest. As a result, this provides adventure seekers with a once in a lifetime experience of seeing the ancient treetops and various remarkable animals.
This suspension bridge hangs over tree canopies as well as deep ravine for about 160 meters long and is raised about 70 meters from the forest floor. If you are familiar with some of the 15 hiking trails of Nyungwe Forest National Park, then it would interest you to know that the canopy walk in Rwanda is part of Igishigishigi trail.
This signature experience in Rwanda is one of a kind and few countries, (less than 5), offer the activity in Africa. The canopy was launched about a decade ago by USAID under the Green Heart initiative. The entire walkway is divided into three parts that include the 90-meter-long walk, the one of 45 meters long as well as the 25-meter-long walk.
While at it, travellers are introduced to sights and sounds of different primate species. These include the blue monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys and other. There are giant hardwood tree species found in the upper ends of the montane forest and purple orchids in the lower ends of the forest.
When to do canopy walk in Rwanda?
The activity usually begins at 8:00 and 10:00 am for the morning session, as well as 1:00 and 3:00pm for afternoon sessions, starting from Uwinka Visitor Center. Travellers are first briefed by rangers from the Rwanda Development Board to get acquainted with rules and regulations of the adventure, then 30 minutes later start the walk. This once in a lifetime signature experience costs only $60 per person and is totally safe for travellers above 6 years old.
Given the fact that the activity also involves visiting a forest, it is recommended to don on breathable safari pants and long-sleeved shirts. Carry a lightweight rain jacket, binoculars, wide brim hat, sunglasses, a good camera with zoom effects, pair of binoculars, and a re-usable water bottle. You may not miss a waterproof backpack, enough drinking water to keep you hydrated, and snacks among others.
While this signature experience of Rwanda is possible to be enjoyed all year round. There are more chances of downpours from March to May, then October to November, thus making the Igishigishigi hiking trail to be muddy as well as slippery. Therefore, the dry seasons, June to September and December to February are preferred for making your dream of walking through tree canopies come true.