About Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is situated within the south-western corner of Rwanda and with a size of 1,000 sqkm, it is the second largest after the savannah Akagera National Park.
Established in 2004, this national park currently protects the largest standing portion of montane rainforest within East and Central Africa.
It is the ‘primate capital of Rwanda’ with over 13 species of primates, that is 25% of Africa’s total primate species, including the chimpanzees, olive baboons, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and silver, Dent’s Mona, and L’Hoests monkeys. These form part of the 85 mammal species found within this park.
There are also 300 species of birds occupying the different ecosystems of this park, including rainforest, bogs, bamboo, wetlands and grasslands. Nyungwe’s biodiversity has made it a priority for conservation in Africa.
Why Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park
A visit to Nyungwe Forest National Park naturally invokes visions and aspirations of the lush tropical rainforest of African wilderness, as the sounds of singing birds touch your innermost emotions and the tropical sun settling over the canopies.
While there are many tropical rainforests on the African continent, there are numerous reasons why you should visit Nyungwe Forest National Park. This national park boasts of outstanding landscape that is typical of a montane rainforest and is incredibly diverse with hidden gems in every part of the park.
Below are some of the reasons why visiting Nyungwe Forest National Park should be top on your bucket list for travelling on an African safaris.
Home to outstanding primate species
There are numerous primate’s species, totaling to 13 species, that make up the iconic symbol of Nyungwe Forest National Park and Rwanda. The unusual diversity of unique species of primates live within the lush tropical rainforest makes the park a must-see destination for every tourist to the country.
Chimpanzees are the most popular primate species in this park but therea others that can be encountered. These include the L’Hoests, red-tailed, blue, Dent’s Mona, vervet, the Angolan colobus, Hamlyn’s, golden, owl-faced and silver monkeys. There are also olive baboons, and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
Once in a lifetime opportunity for trekking chimpanzees
There is unexplainable feeling in trekking the chimpanzees within Nyungwe Forest National Park that cannot be captured in words. At the break of dawn (5:00 – 6:00 am), trekkers venture into the lush rainforest to have a glimpse of the great apes as they start their activity-filled day.
This forest is also a wonderful place to be when the silence of the forest seems to last forever. Trekking the chimpanzees is a somewhat hectic activity that lasts between 30 minutes and 3 hours. But the iconic and inherently photogenic moment with the chimpanzees will make you forget the hustle you went through in finding them.
Two communities of habituated chimpanzees live amongst the verdant tropical rainforest, making it a perfect destination for your unforgettable chimpanzee encounters.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is the only place in East Africa to enjoy the canopy walk
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the few places where the outstanding canopy walk is conducted and in East Africa, it is the only place.
Being on the canopy walk feels like being on top of the world, because the eagle eye experience from the tree top are magnificent and rewarding to tourists. With the jaw-dropping and delightful diversity of wildlife, birds and tree species, you will have a wonderful experience.
Expect to see the Rwenzori colobus monkeys, among a variety of other primates, and different bird species such as the Rwenzori batis, handsome francolins, and strange weavers among others. All this, during the 2-hour canopy walk on the 200 meters long trail that is 50 meters above the forest floor. .
Hiking through the verdant forest
The largest remaining tract of verdant montane rainforest in East and Central Africa is Nyungwe forest. The forest rewards tourists with an exceptional allure since it’s one of a few places to hike through a typical rainforest.
An enriching hike through the lush Nyungwe forest would involve encountering breathtaking waterfalls, unique tree species, and various species of birds, including the Albertine Rift endemics.
Nyungwe is the second largest national park in Rwanda, after Akagera National Park. It is a spectacular work of art by mother nature that can best be explored through hiking. With over 15 hiking trails such as the popular Igishigishigi trail, Bigugu, Isumo waterfall trail and Kamiranzovu wetland trail among others. You can never run out of options for hiking through this verdant forest.
The most interesting thing is that each of these trails offers an extraordinary experience with varying attractions.
Plethora of unique bird species
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a massive birdlife-rich forest in the south-west of Rwanda. It is a home to over 300 species of birds including the Albertine Rift endemic species such as the handsome francolin, Rwenzori batis and others.
Other species include the great blue turaco, collared apalis, regal sunbirds, red-throated alethe, paradise flycatcher and Rockefeller’s sunbirds are also a must-see.
Exquisite Safari Lodges within Nyungwe Forest National Park
Within and around Nyungwe Forest National Park, there are world-class safari lodges and hotels. These provide unsurpassed opportunity for exploration of the oldest and largest remaining tract of montane rainforest within East and Central Africa.
One&Only Nyungwe House
A visit to Nyungwe Forest National Park should involve staying at One&Only Nyungwe House for a chance to soak in memorable moments. So, don’t miss dining while enjoying views of the forest, sumptuous meals, swimming, massage treats, luxurious rooms and many other experiences that cannot be explained in words.
This forest retreat has 22 state of the art rooms as well as suites within 8 large wooden villas.
Nyungwe Forest Lodge
Cozy and luxurious rooms, surrounding foothills, breathtaking views are the real definition for unwinding within the wilderness, and it is what to expect at Nyungwe Forest Lodge.
This magnificent facility features 22 classic rooms within 6 wooden villas. So, dine, relax and sleep like a king or queen within the two presidential suites that offer Jacuzzi.
All the rooms here were built with a special touch of nature with breathtaking views of the forest, having en-route bathrooms, telephone services, and a private deck. There is a mini-bar, access to fee Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, fire place, flat screen TV and many other amenities for your relaxation.
Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
The 12 red-brick cottages of Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel are one of the reasons why it is a popular place for luxurious and midrange travellers. The dining area, delicious meals, bedrooms and other amenities of the facility makes you wish to stay longer than anticipated.
How to get to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is approximately 200 kilometers drive from Kigali City and takes about 5-6 hours to drive on tarmac and murram roads. You will be winding through the vast lush tea estates as well as a roadside parade of various primate species to get to the south-western side of Rwanda where this magnificent park is found.
However, you can also access the park through air and water transport. Flights from Kigali to Kamembe lasts about 30-45 minutes.