Destination
Nyungwe National Park
One of Africa's oldest rainforests: the canopy walkway, chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and forest waterfalls.
See Tours- Location
- Southwest Rwanda, near Lake Kivu
- Size
- About 1,020 km²
- From Kigali
- 5 to 6 hours by road
- Known for
- Canopy walk, chimpanzees
About Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe is a vast montane rainforest in Rwanda's southwest, one of the oldest and best-preserved in Africa. Its deep valleys and ridges shelter 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and large troops of colobus monkeys, and around 300 kinds of bird.
The highlight for most visitors is the canopy walkway, a suspension bridge 50 metres above the forest floor. Beyond it, trails lead through tree ferns and mist to hidden waterfalls, and the park is edged by bright green tea plantations.
Things to Do
The experiences that make Nyungwe National Park worth the trip.
Canopy Walk
Walk a 200-metre suspension bridge 50 metres above the forest floor, with the rainforest stretching away on every side.
Chimpanzee Tracking
An early start to find habituated chimpanzees on the Uwinka or Cyamudongo trails, with an hour in their company.
Ndambarare Waterfall
A guided hike of 3 to 4 hours through the forest to a waterfall hidden in the valley.
Colobus Monkey Trail
Walk with a ranger to find troops of black-and-white Angolan colobus monkeys.
Birdwatching
Around 300 species, including many found only in the Albertine Rift.
Tea Plantations
Walk the tea estates that roll right up to the edge of the forest.
Plan Your Visit
The practical details, so you know what to expect before you enquire.
Best time to visit
Fitness level
Getting there
What to bring
- Waterproof jacket
- Hiking boots with grip
- Warm layer (it gets cool under the canopy)
- Insect repellent
Tours in Nyungwe Rainforest
Ready-made trips you can book as they are or have Justin adapt.
1 dayNyungwe National Park
1 Day Nyungwe Canopy Walk & Waterfall
A long day from Kigali to walk the canopy walkway 50 metres above the Nyungwe rainforest, then hike to Ndambarare Waterfall.
- Canopy Walk
- Hiking
3 days / 2 nightsAcross Rwanda
3 Day Culture, Canopy & Waterfall Adventure
The royal south, the Nyungwe canopy walk and Ndambarare Waterfall in three days, with two nights on the edge of the rainforest.
- Culture & Heritage
- Canopy Walk
- Hiking
10 days / 9 nightsAcross Rwanda
The 10 Day Ultimate Rwanda Experience
Kigali, the royal south, Nyungwe's chimpanzees, Lake Kivu, gorillas and golden monkeys in the volcanoes, and a camping safari in Akagera: the whole country in ten days.
- Gorilla Trekking
- Primates
- Game Drive
Plan Your Visit to Nyungwe Rainforest
Tell Justin your dates and interests and he will put together an itinerary and quote for your group.