Gishwati–Mukura National Park Rwanda
Tucked away in Rwanda’s western highlands lies one of Africa’s most inspiring conservation stories — Gishwati–Mukura National Park. This park, though relatively new on Rwanda’s tourism map, is a living symbol of renewal and resilience. Once severely deforested and fragmented, it has been reborn through ambitious restoration efforts that turned what was once lost forest into a thriving ecosystem once again. Today, Gishwati–Mukura invites travelers to witness not only Rwanda’s natural beauty but also its remarkable journey toward ecological harmony.
A Park of Two Forests
Gishwati–Mukura National Park was officially established in 2015, combining two separate high-altitude rainforests — Gishwati and Mukura — located along the ridge of the Albertine Rift in western Rwanda. The two forests are connected by a stretch of land that serves as a reforestation corridor, allowing wildlife to move freely and the ecosystem to heal.
Covering roughly 34 square kilometers, it may be small compared to Rwanda’s other national parks, but its significance is immense. Gishwati–Mukura forms part of the Congo–Nile Divide, one of the world’s richest biodiversity zones, and plays a crucial role in linking the great forests of Nyungwe in the south and Volcanoes in the north.
The Landscape and Ecosystem
The park is a haven of mist-covered hills, lush montane forests, and rushing streams that feed into the great rivers flowing toward both the Congo Basin and Lake Kivu. Walking beneath its emerald canopy feels like stepping into a secret world — alive with the scent of damp earth, birdsong, and the rustle of leaves.
Decades of reforestation have brought back native plant species, and the forest now shelters primates, birds, butterflies, and rare tree species. The area is part of Rwanda’s larger commitment to rewilding and sustainable conservation, and every visit supports this ongoing revival.
Wildlife and Primates of Gishwati–Mukura
Although still recovering, Gishwati–Mukura is already home to an impressive array of wildlife, especially primates. Visitors can expect to encounter:
Chimpanzees, which move in small troops and are gradually becoming more habituated for eco-tourism. Their presence marks the park’s biggest attraction, offering a quieter, more exclusive tracking experience than elsewhere.
Golden monkeys, known for their striking colors and playful behavior, leap gracefully among the tree branches, a rare sight outside Volcanoes National Park.
Other primates include L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys, all thriving in the regenerating forest.
Beyond primates, the park is also home to forest elephants, duikers, and bushbucks, though sightings are rarer due to the dense vegetation and the park’s ongoing recovery.
Birdlife and Biodiversity
For bird enthusiasts, Gishwati–Mukura is a paradise. Over 230 bird species have been recorded, including 20 that are endemic to the Albertine Rift region. The park’s vibrant avifauna includes the Ruwenzori turaco, Regal sunbird, Red-throated alethe, Strange weaver, and Mountain yellow warbler. The calls of these birds fill the forest canopy, creating a serene symphony that accompanies every hike.
The flora is equally diverse, with tree species such as Carapa grandiflora, Prunus africana, and Newtonia buchananii, all vital to the ecosystem. The undergrowth is alive with butterflies, orchids, and mushrooms, painting the forest floor with color and life.
Activities in Gishwati–Mukura National Park
Chimpanzee and Primate Tracking
The highlight of visiting Gishwati–Mukura is the opportunity to track its small but growing population of chimpanzees. Guided walks take visitors through the forest in search of these intelligent primates, with chances to also encounter golden monkeys and other species along the way.
Nature Walks and Hiking Trails
The park offers scenic trails that weave through thick forest, open glades, and alongside crystal-clear streams. Guided nature walks provide insights into the ecosystem’s restoration, medicinal plants, and traditional uses of the forest.
Bird Watching
Birdwatchers can enjoy some of Rwanda’s rarest forest species here, with local guides helping to identify Albertine Rift endemics and colorful songbirds hidden within the canopy.
Community and Cultural Experiences
Around the park, local communities play an integral role in conservation. Visitors can engage with eco-tourism cooperatives, learn about traditional crafts, or visit reforestation projects that have helped restore the park’s balance. This blend of nature and culture makes every visit meaningful and personal.
Waterfall Visits
Hidden within the forest are small yet beautiful waterfalls, perfect for short hikes and photography. The cool mist, surrounded by lush greenery, creates a peaceful ambiance ideal for meditation and relaxation.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Gishwati–Mukura National Park is during the dry seasons — from June to September and December to February. Trails are easier to navigate, and wildlife is more active. However, even during the rainy months, the park retains its mystical beauty, with vibrant greens and fewer visitors, ideal for photographers and nature lovers seeking solitude.
Getting There and Where to Stay
Gishwati–Mukura is located about two and a half hours from Kigali and can easily be combined with trips to Lake Kivu, Volcanoes National Park, or Nyungwe Forest National Park. The nearest town is Rubavu (Gisenyi), where visitors can find comfortable lodges along the lakeshore.
Within the park, the Gishwati Lodge provides intimate, eco-friendly accommodation overlooking the forest, blending luxury with sustainability. Staying here allows guests to experience sunrise walks, primate treks, and guided forest immersions in complete tranquility.
A Story of Restoration and Hope
What makes Gishwati–Mukura truly special is not just its beauty, but its message of hope. Once on the brink of ecological collapse due to deforestation and farming, it has been brought back to life through Rwanda’s unwavering commitment to conservation and community partnership. Every tree planted and every animal that returns tells a story of resilience.
Visiting this park is an opportunity to be part of that story — to witness how a nation’s dedication can turn loss into renewal and to walk through a forest that symbolizes the healing power of nature.
The Future of Gishwati–Mukura
As conservation efforts continue, Gishwati–Mukura is poised to become one of East Africa’s leading eco-tourism destinations. Plans for expanded primate tracking, scientific research, and sustainable community tourism promise to enhance its appeal while protecting its fragile ecosystem.
For travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate alternative to Rwanda’s better-known parks, Gishwati–Mukura offers exactly that — an unspoiled, soulful connection to the wild.