Nyungwe Forest: Rwanda’s Most Biodiverse and Undervisited National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park covers 1,019 square kilometres in southwest Rwanda – one of the largest montane rainforest reserves in Africa – separated from Volcanoes National Park (the mountain gorilla destination) by the whole length of the country. That geography is why it sees far fewer tourists than its ecological significance deserves. Visitors to Nyungwe are making a specific trip rather than adding a day to a gorilla trek, and most people who come don’t regret it.

The park’s altitude ranges from 1,600 to 2,950 metres, creating a mosaic of montane rainforest, bamboo forest, sub-alpine heath, and grassland. It holds 13 primate species including chimpanzees and the endangered Rwenzori colobus, over 300 bird species with 27 Albertine Rift endemics, and more orchid species than any other protected area in East Africa.

Chimpanzee Tracking

Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe is comparable to gorilla tracking in terms of encounter quality but at a fraction of the price and with far fewer crowds. Permits for 2025-2026 run approximately $150-250 USD for international visitors (non-residents), $75 for foreign residents, through the Rwanda Development Board. Compare this with $1,500 for mountain gorillas at Volcanoes. A maximum of 24 permits are available daily; book in advance through Rwanda Development Board directly, particularly for peak season (June-September, December-February).

Two chimpanzee communities are habituated: the Cyamudongo group (small, in a forest fragment south of the main park) and the Uwinka group (larger, in the main park). Tracking takes 3-7 hours depending on where the chimps have ranged. The encounter when you find them is extraordinarily close; habituated chimps continue feeding, grooming, and social behaviour while you observe. The vocalisations, particularly when males drum on tree buttresses, are startling in their volume.

Canopy Walkway

The suspension bridge canopy walkway at Uwinka spans three sections totalling about 160 metres at 50 metres above the forest floor – the highest canopy walkway in Africa. The Rwenzori colobus monkeys are frequently visible here; bird visibility is better than at ground level. Included in the park fee. Most fitness levels can manage it with care on the suspension sections.

Getting to Nyungwe

Approximately 230 kilometres from Kigali via the Rwanda-Burundi highway through Huye; drive 4-5 hours. No public transport reaches the park directly; rent a car in Kigali or arrange transfers through a lodge. The road is sealed and well-maintained throughout. The Kivu Belt Bus (Kigali-Cyangugu route, 5-6 hours) stops at Gisakura, a 5-minute walk from the park entrance – the budget option.

Where to Stay

Nyungwe Forest Lodge on the tea plantation above the forest is the highest-quality accommodation option, with forest views and knowledgeable guides. Gisakura Guesthouse at the park entrance is the budget alternative: basic but directly at the trailhead, run by the park authority, and books out faster than expected during peak season.

When to Go

Dry seasons (June-September and December-February) offer better trail conditions and higher wildlife visibility. The long rains (March-May) make trails slippery and some routes close temporarily. Photography quality is actually better in the rains – mist in the forest, saturated greens – but requires full waterproof preparation. Bring waterproof hiking gear regardless of season; the upper forest receives rain year-round. Leech socks from Kigali outdoor shops are worth wearing June through October when forest floor leeches are active after rain.