Can I do a canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest?

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Can I Do a Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest?

High above the emerald treetops of southwestern Rwanda, the forest breathes, whispers, and dances with life. Mist curls between giant mahogany trees, tropical birds sing their morning songs, and somewhere below, chimpanzees call across the valley. Suspended hundreds of feet above this ancient rainforest is one of Africa’s most exhilarating adventures — the Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk.

For many travelers visiting Rwanda, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is the highlight of their journey. But those who venture further south to Nyungwe National Park discover a completely different kind of magic — a peaceful, unspoiled rainforest where you can literally walk among the clouds.

So, if you’re wondering, “Can I do a canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest?”, the answer is a resounding yes! Not only can you, but it’s one of the most breathtaking experiences you can have in East Africa. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Nyungwe Canopy Walk — from how it works and what to expect, to when to go, what to pack, and why it’s worth adding to your Rwanda itinerary.

1. Where Is Nyungwe Forest Located?

Nyungwe National Park lies in the southwestern corner of Rwanda, about 225 kilometers (140 miles) from Kigali, the capital city. The park stretches across over 1,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest and oldest montane rainforests in Africa. It borders Burundi to the south and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west and forms part of the Albertine Rift, a region renowned for its exceptional biodiversity.

The park’s altitude ranges from 1,600 to 2,950 meters, creating a cool, misty climate that supports a lush ecosystem filled with over 1,000 plant species, 322 bird species, and 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys.

This dense, untouched forest is also where you’ll find Rwanda’s famous canopy walkway, one of the most spectacular in the world.

2. What Is the Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk?

The Nyungwe Canopy Walkway is a 160-meter-long (525-foot) suspension bridge that hangs 70 meters (230 feet) above the forest floor. It is the only canopy walkway in East Africa, and one of the few in all of Africa, making it a truly unique experience.

Constructed in 2010 as part of a USAID-funded conservation project, the walkway was designed to promote eco-tourism and provide visitors with an extraordinary perspective of the rainforest. Instead of viewing the forest from below, the canopy walk allows you to explore it from above — eye level with the treetops and the wildlife that calls them home.

The structure is sturdy, safe, and professionally maintained by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). It consists of three sections, the longest spanning 90 meters, with steel cables and netted sides to ensure stability. As you step onto the walkway, it gently sways with your movement, heightening the thrill and giving you a true sense of adventure.

3. How to Reach the Canopy Walk

The canopy walkway is located at the Uwinka Visitor Center, which serves as the main entry point for Nyungwe National Park. From Kigali, it takes approximately 5–6 hours by road via Huye (Butare) and Gisakura. The drive itself is scenic, passing through terraced hills, tea plantations, and traditional Rwandan villages.

Alternatively, travelers can take a domestic flight from Kigali to Kamembe Airport in Cyangugu, which is just a 45-minute flight. From Kamembe, it’s only about one hour by road to Uwinka.

Once at the visitor center, you’ll register, pay the canopy walk fee, and join a guided group for the trek.

4. The Canopy Walk Experience

a) The Hike to the Walkway

Before reaching the canopy bridge, you’ll take a guided hike through Nyungwe’s dense rainforest. This hike, known as the Igishigishigi Trail, is about 2.1 kilometers (1.3 miles) long and typically takes 1–1.5 hours round trip.

The trail winds through thick vegetation, with giant tree ferns, orchids, and moss-covered trunks. You’ll likely encounter monkeys — especially the L’Hoest’s monkeys and blue monkeys — and hear the calls of tropical birds echoing from above.

Though the hike is moderately easy, parts of it can be steep or slippery after rain, so sturdy hiking shoes are essential.

b) Stepping Onto the Bridge

When you finally reach the canopy walkway, prepare for a rush of awe and adrenaline. The bridge stretches out between ancient trees, swaying slightly in the breeze, with mist rolling through the treetops.

As you step onto the first section, the forest opens up below you — layers upon layers of green stretching as far as the eye can see. The air is cool and crisp, and the sounds of the forest — chirping birds, rustling leaves, distant waterfalls — surround you.

From this vantage point, you can spot rare birds flitting among the branches, butterflies dancing in the sunlight, and even monkeys leaping from tree to tree.

The final section of the walkway leads to a platform where you can pause to take photos and simply soak in the view. It’s one of those moments that stays etched in your memory forever.

c) Returning to the Trailhead

After crossing the walkway, you’ll continue along the trail, which loops back to the starting point at Uwinka Visitor Center. The return hike usually takes 30–40 minutes, depending on your pace and how many stops you make for photos.

5. How Much Does the Canopy Walk Cost?

As of 2025, the Nyungwe Canopy Walk fee is:

  • USD 60 per person (for international tourists)

  • RWF 5,000 (for Rwandan citizens)

  • USD 50 per person (for East African residents)

The fee includes:

  • Park entry for the day

  • A professional guide

  • The guided hike on the Igishigishigi Trail

  • The canopy walkway experience

Permits can be purchased directly at Uwinka Visitor Center or through your tour operator, such as Muhiga Safaris, who can secure them in advance and handle all arrangements.

6. Best Time to Do the Canopy Walk

Nyungwe Forest can be visited year-round, but the best time for the canopy walk is during the dry seasons, when the trails are less muddy and visibility is better.

  • Long Dry Season: June to September

  • Short Dry Season: December to February

During these months, the skies are clearer, and you can enjoy uninterrupted views across the forest canopy.

The rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) are also magical, as the forest is at its greenest and full of life — but be prepared for slippery trails and misty conditions.

Morning walks (8:00 AM or 10:00 AM) are ideal for birdwatching and photography, while afternoon walks (1:00 PM or 3:00 PM) often provide dramatic lighting as the sun filters through the mist.

7. What to Bring

Because the canopy walk takes place in a rainforest, preparation is key. Here’s what to pack for a comfortable and safe experience:

  • Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction

  • Light rain jacket or poncho, as showers are common

  • Long pants and long sleeves to protect from insects and vegetation

  • Binoculars for birdwatching

  • Camera (preferably with a strap)

  • Drinking water and light snacks

  • Hat and sunscreen for sunny days

  • Small backpack for carrying essentials

8. Health and Safety Tips

The Nyungwe canopy walk is suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness levels. However, it involves a short hike and walking on a suspended bridge, which might not be ideal for those with severe vertigo or mobility issues.

Here are a few safety reminders:

  • Always follow your guide’s instructions.

  • Hold onto the side ropes if you feel unsteady.

  • Avoid running or jumping on the walkway.

  • Limit the number of people on the bridge at a time (guides manage this carefully).

  • Keep valuables secured; don’t drop anything from the bridge.

The structure is inspected regularly, and the Rwanda Development Board maintains high safety standards — so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

9. What Else to Do in Nyungwe National Park

While the canopy walk is the highlight of many visits, Nyungwe has much more to offer for nature enthusiasts:

Chimpanzee Tracking

Track Rwanda’s playful chimpanzees in either Uwinka or Cyamudongo Forest. Watching these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is both thrilling and humbling.

Colobus Monkey Tracking

Join a guided trek to see one of Africa’s largest troops of black-and-white colobus monkeys, often numbering in the hundreds.

Nature and Waterfall Hikes

Explore over 15 forest trails, ranging from short walks to full-day hikes. The Isumo Waterfall Trail is particularly popular for its breathtaking cascade surrounded by thick greenery.

Birdwatching

Nyungwe is a paradise for birders, with over 300 species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics. Early morning walks are the best time for sightings.

Tea Plantation Tours

Visit the nearby Gisakura Tea Estate, where you can walk through lush tea fields, meet local workers, and sample freshly brewed Rwandan tea.

10. Why the Nyungwe Canopy Walk Is Worth It

The canopy walk is not just an adventure; it’s an emotional and sensory experience that connects you to one of Africa’s last great rainforests.

  • For thrill-seekers, it offers an adrenaline rush unlike any other — walking 70 meters above the forest floor on a gently swaying bridge.

  • For nature lovers, it provides a rare bird’s-eye view of the forest’s diverse life forms.

  • For photographers, it’s an opportunity to capture sweeping panoramas and intimate details of wildlife and flora.

  • For conservationists, it represents Rwanda’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism.

Standing on that bridge, surrounded by mist and birdsong, you’ll realize that Nyungwe is not just a place — it’s an experience that awakens the soul.

11. Where to Stay Near the Canopy Walk

Several excellent lodges and hotels cater to travelers visiting Nyungwe National Park:

  • One&Only Nyungwe House – A luxurious eco-lodge set on a tea estate, offering world-class service and breathtaking forest views.

  • Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel – A mid-range lodge perched on a hill, offering cozy chalets and panoramic views of the park.

  • Gisakura Guest House – A budget-friendly option located close to the park’s western gate, ideal for backpackers and budget travelers.

All of these lodges can arrange guided canopy walks and other park activities.

12. How to Combine the Canopy Walk with Other Rwanda Adventures

The canopy walk fits perfectly into a broader Rwanda itinerary. Many travelers combine it with:

  • Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park (3–4 hours north).

  • Relaxation at Lake Kivu (just 2 hours from Nyungwe).

  • Cultural experiences in Kigali and Huye.

A 5–7 day safari with Muhiga Safaris can seamlessly include all these destinations — giving you the full Rwandan experience, from gorilla jungles to serene lakes and rainforests.

13. Travel with Muhiga Safaris

If you’re dreaming of walking above the trees in one of Africa’s most enchanting rainforests, Muhiga Safaris is your trusted guide. With years of expertise in crafting tailor-made Rwanda safaris, Muhiga Safaris ensures your canopy walk adventure in Nyungwe Forest is seamless, safe, and unforgettable.

Their team handles all logistics — from park permits and transportation to accommodation and guided tours — so you can focus on experiencing the wonder of Rwanda’s natural beauty. Whether you want to combine Nyungwe with gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, or a relaxing stay by Lake Kivu, Muhiga Safaris can design the perfect itinerary for you.

Step into the clouds. Listen to the heartbeat of the rainforest. Discover Rwanda from above — with Muhiga Safaris, where every step tells a story of adventure, beauty, and connection.

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