Nyungwe National Park: Rwanda’s Jewel Nominated for a Global Award

Introduction

Hidden in the mist-covered mountains of southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park stands as one of Africa’s most enchanting biodiversity havens. This vast rainforest, home to rare primates, colorful birds, and a lush canopy, has not only captured the imagination of explorers and conservationists but also earned international recognition. When the park was nominated for a prestigious global award by the British Guild of Travel Writers, it symbolized more than just a vote of confidence—it underscored Rwanda’s growing role as a leader in sustainable tourism and ecological stewardship.

The Significance of the Nomination

The nomination for the “Best Overseas Project/Attraction” was deeply tied to the Nyungwe Nziza initiative, meaning “Beautiful Nyungwe.” This ambitious project, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by DAI, was designed to balance conservation with tourism development. By the time of the nomination, Nyungwe was already renowned for its untouched beauty and unique experiences, such as the canopy walk that soars high above the rainforest floor. The award nomination, however, cast a global spotlight on the park’s achievements in weaving together community empowerment, environmental protection, and world-class tourism infrastructure.

Why Nyungwe Stands Out

Nyungwe National Park covers more than 1,000 square kilometers of montane rainforest, bamboo, swamps, and grasslands. It is recognized as one of the most ancient forests in Africa, dating back thousands of years. This ecological gem is home to 13 primate species, including the endangered chimpanzee and large troops of black-and-white colobus monkeys. Over 300 bird species and hundreds of orchids and butterflies contribute to its status as a biodiversity hotspot.

Yet Nyungwe’s appeal extends beyond numbers. The park offers experiences that are both raw and transformative: trekking through steep rainforest trails, standing on the iconic suspension bridge of the canopy walkway, or meeting local communities who benefit directly from conservation tourism. These elements, carefully nurtured by projects like Nyungwe Nziza, explain why global organizations recognized the park as a model for responsible tourism.

The Global Award and Its Impact

When the British Guild of Travel Writers honored Nyungwe with the Best Overseas and Best Global Project Awards in 2012, it was a historic moment for Rwanda. The accolade was more than a trophy—it was validation that Rwanda’s strategy of pairing conservation with tourism could inspire the world. The awards helped to:

• Elevate Rwanda’s reputation as a sustainable tourism leader.

• Attract international visitors eager to experience Nyungwe’s pristine environment.

• Encourage other African destinations to adopt similar conservation-tourism approaches.

• Showcase the power of community participation in protecting natural heritage.

The ripple effect of this recognition continues to be felt today, with Nyungwe standing proudly alongside iconic destinations like Volcanoes National Park, home of the mountain gorillas.

Beyond the Awards: Lasting Legacy

The nomination and subsequent awards were milestones, but the true success of Nyungwe lies in its enduring legacy. The park has continued to attract travelers seeking immersive nature experiences while empowering surrounding communities through jobs, cultural tourism, and shared revenue. This synergy ensures that the forest’s protection is not only a matter of conservation policy but also a source of local pride and livelihood.

Rwanda’s investment in Nyungwe reflects its broader vision: positioning itself as a premier eco-tourism hub in Africa. With the park’s nomination and global recognition serving as a springboard, Nyungwe remains central to Rwanda’s tourism narrative—a story of resilience, renewal, and responsibility.

Conclusion

The nomination of Nyungwe National Park for a global award was more than a ceremonial acknowledgment. It was a declaration that the world is watching—and applauding—Rwanda’s efforts to blend conservation, community, and tourism into a sustainable model. For travelers, this means that a visit to Nyungwe is not only a chance to marvel at ancient rainforests and rare primates but also to support a destination celebrated for doing things the right way. As Rwanda continues to rise as a beacon of eco-tourism, Nyungwe’s recognition on the global stage remains a defining moment in the country’s journey.