Location of Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the southwestern corner of Rwanda, straddling the border with Burundi to the south and lying close to Lake Kivu to the west. It occupies a vast area within the Albertine Rift region of the East African Rift Valley, making it one of the most biodiverse highland rainforests in all of Africa.

The park stretches across the districts of Nyamagabe and Rusizi, covering over 1,000 square kilometers of mountainous terrain cloaked in ancient tropical forest. Its altitude ranges from about 1,600 meters to over 2,950 meters above sea level, contributing to the diversity of flora and fauna found here.

Nyungwe is approximately 225 kilometers from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, making it accessible by road within 5 to 6 hours of scenic driving through rolling hills, tea plantations, and local villages. The main gateway to the park is through the Uwinka Visitor Center, which sits near the Gisakura side of the forest, close to the Rusizi–Cyangugu area.

For travelers coming from southern Rwanda or crossing from Burundi, Nyungwe is also reachable via the towns of Huye and Kitabi. Domestic flights can land in Kamembe Airport, located near Cyangugu, just about 32 kilometers from the park entrance, providing a quicker option for those short on time.

Nyungwe’s location within the heart of the Albertine Rift gives it its ecological significance, serving as a watershed for both the Congo and Nile basins and sheltering hundreds of species found nowhere else on the planet. Its remoteness, yet surprising accessibility, makes it a perfect retreat for those seeking pristine nature and unforgettable primate encounters.