Nyungwe Forest National Park protects one of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests in Africa, a vast emerald canopy that stretches across the mountains of southwestern Rwanda. This 1,019-square-kilometer montane rainforest has survived since long before the last ice age, sheltering 13 primate species (including chimpanzees and the rare L'Hoest's monkey), over 310 bird species, and more than 1,000 plant species. The park's most famous attraction is its canopy walkway, a 200-meter-long suspension bridge hanging 60 meters above the forest floor that offers a bird's-eye perspective of the treetops. Chimpanzee trekking is another major draw, with habituated groups living in the forest's interior. What sets Nyungwe apart from East Africa's other primate forests is the sheer scale of its biodiversity and the ancient character of its ecosystem. The drive from Kigali takes around five hours along one of Rwanda's most scenic routes, hugging the shores of Lake Kivu before climbing into the mountains. The journey alone is worth the trip. For travelers who have visited the gorillas in Volcanoes NP, Nyungwe provides a completely different forest experience: deeper, darker, wilder, and home to a different suite of primates and birds.
Last updated: February 2026
Wildlife in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Big Five Status
lion
Not present
leopard
Very rare
elephant
Not present
buffalo
Not present
rhino
Not present
Wildlife Highlights
Chimpanzee
An estimated 400+ chimpanzees live in Nyungwe. Several groups have been habituated for tracking. Sighting rates are around 60-70%, lower than Kibale in Uganda.
L'Hoest's Monkey
A beautiful highland primate with a distinctive white beard. One of 13 primate species in the park.
Rwenzori Colobus Monkey
Found in large troops of 300 or more individuals, among the largest primate groups in Africa. Spectacular to witness.
Owl-faced Monkey
A rare and shy primate found in Nyungwe's montane forest. One of the park's more elusive species.
310+ bird species including Rwenzori turaco, Great blue turaco, Grauer's broadbill, Red-collared mountain babbler, Albertine owlet, Purple-breasted sunbird.
Best Time to Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe is a rainforest, so expect rain in any season. The driest months (June to September, December to February) offer the best trekking conditions and highest chimp sighting rates. The forest is accessible year-round.
peak Season
June, July, August, SeptemberDriest months, though rain is still possible. Best trekking conditions.
Moderate
Standard
Good visibility, chimps often at lower elevations
high Season
December, January, FebruaryShort dry season. Good conditions with occasional showers.
Moderate
Standard
Good chimp tracking conditions
shoulder Season
March, OctoberTransition months, increasing rain
Low
Standard
Chimps active, migratory birds arriving
low Season
April, May, NovemberHeaviest rainfall, muddy trails
Low
Standard
Chimps present but harder to find. Best birding season.
Getting to Nyungwe Forest National Park
By Air
By Road
Entry Gates
Uwinka Visitor Center
Main entry point and trailhead for canopy walkway and several hiking trails.
Gisakura
Eastern entrance near Gisakura Tea Estate. Base for chimp trekking.
Nyungwe Forest National Park Entry Fees (2026)
| Category | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Adult (Non-resident) | $50/day |
| Child (Non-resident) | $25/day |
- • Park entry: $50/adult, $25/child (6-12) per 24 hours
- • Chimpanzee trekking: $100 per person (includes park entry)
- • Canopy walkway: $60 per person (includes park entry)
- • Colobus monkey tracking: $100 per person
- • Birding guided walks: $50 per person
- • Guided waterfall hikes: $40-50 per person
- • Book chimp trekking at Gisakura reception at 5:00 AM on the day, or in advance through RDB
Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Included Activities
Forest hiking trails
Over 130 km of trails wind through the forest, ranging from easy 1-hour walks to challenging full-day hikes. Guided walks explore different habitats and primate territories.
Optional Extras
Chimpanzee Trekking
$100-$100Track a habituated chimpanzee community through the forest with experienced guides. Sighting rates are around 60-70%. When found, you spend one hour observing the chimps.
Canopy Walkway
$60-$60Walk across a 200-meter-long suspension bridge hanging 60 meters above the forest floor. Spectacular views of the canopy and surrounding mountains. Best in the morning when mist clears.
Colobus Monkey Tracking
$100-$100Track the massive troops of Rwenzori colobus monkeys, which can number over 300 individuals. One of the largest primate aggregations in Africa.
Guided Birding Walk
$50-$50Explore the forest with a specialist birding guide. Nyungwe has 310+ species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics.
Waterfall Hikes
$40-$50Several trails lead to scenic waterfalls within the forest, including the Isumo waterfall trail.
Where to Stay
Accommodation near Nyungwe is concentrated around the Gisakura area on the eastern edge of the park. Options range from a high-end lodge to simple guesthouses. The selection is smaller than at Volcanoes NP, so book ahead during peak season.
luxury
$400-$1500/person/nightIncludes: All meals, guided activities, drinks, transfers
Examples: one-and-only-nyungwe-house
mid range
$100-$350/person/nightIncludes: Meals, comfortable rooms, activity booking assistance
Examples: nyungwe-top-view-hill-hotel, gisakura-guesthouse
budget
$30-$80/person/nightIncludes: Basic rooms or camping, meals available
Examples: gisakura-family-hostel, uwinka-campsite
Practical Tips
- 1Start chimp trekking early (5-6 AM) when chimps are most active and vocal
- 2Wear waterproof hiking boots and bring rain gear; this is a rainforest
- 3Leeches are present on forest trails, especially in wet season; tuck pants into socks
- 4The canopy walkway is best in the morning when mist lifts and light filters through the canopy
- 5Pack warm layers; temperatures at 2,000+ meters can be cool, especially mornings
- 6Bring binoculars for birdwatching and primate spotting
- 7Allow at least 2 days to cover chimp trekking and the canopy walkway
- 8Chimp sighting rates are around 60-70%, lower than Uganda's Kibale Forest; manage expectations
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does chimp trekking cost in Nyungwe?
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe costs $100 per person, which includes park entry. This is less than half the price of chimp trekking in Uganda's Kibale Forest ($200). Book through the Rwanda Development Board or at the Gisakura reception.
What are the chances of seeing chimps?
Sighting rates are approximately 60-70%. Chimps are more mobile than gorillas and can be harder to locate. Early morning treks offer the best chances, as chimps are vocal and active at dawn.
Is the canopy walkway safe?
Yes. The canopy walkway is professionally engineered, well-maintained, and safe for visitors of all ages. It sways slightly with the wind, which can be unnerving but is perfectly normal. Guides accompany all visitors.
How do I get to Nyungwe from Kigali?
It is a 5-6 hour drive from Kigali. The most scenic route goes via Lake Kivu (Kibuye/Karongi) along the western shore. The direct route through Huye (Butare) is slightly faster. Roads are paved the entire way.
Can I combine Nyungwe with other Rwanda parks?
Yes. A common itinerary covers Volcanoes NP for gorillas (2-3 days), Akagera for Big Five safari (2 days), and Nyungwe for chimps and canopy walk (2 days), with Kigali and Lake Kivu stops. Allow 7-10 days for the full circuit.
Official Resources
Sources
- 1,019 sq km of montane rainforest, 13 primate species, 310+ bird species: Rwanda Development Board / African Parks
- Park established 2004, forest protected since 1933, managed by African Parks since 2020: African Parks