Things to Do and See in Nyungwe National Park – Rwanda’s Primate and Canopy Haven
Nyungwe National Park is one of Africa’s most pristine and ecologically rich montane rainforests, tucked in Rwanda’s southwestern corner near the border with Burundi and Lake Kivu. Spanning over 1,000 square kilometers, this ancient forest is a biodiversity hotspot filled with rare primates, vibrant birdlife, mist-shrouded trails, and awe-inspiring canopy views. For travelers seeking a deep connection with nature and wildlife, Nyungwe offers an unforgettable experience through its trails, treetops, and tranquil beauty.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Cyamudongo and Uwinka
One of the park’s star attractions is chimpanzee tracking, where guests follow experienced guides into the forest to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. With two habituated groups—one in the main Nyungwe forest and another in the smaller Cyamudongo forest—this activity offers exciting, early-morning treks through dense vegetation filled with the sounds of nature. Seeing chimpanzees play, groom, and leap through trees is both humbling and exhilarating.
The Famous Canopy Walk Experience
Nyungwe is the only national park in East Africa with a suspended canopy walkway. This 160-meter-long bridge is suspended 70 meters above the forest floor, providing panoramic views over the treetops and deep valleys. The canopy walk is a thrilling way to spot monkeys, butterflies, and exotic birds from above, while also giving you a unique aerial perspective of the ancient forest.
Colobus Monkey Tracking and Other Primates
Beyond chimpanzees, Nyungwe is home to over 13 species of primates, including the Angola colobus monkey, L’Hoest’s monkey, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and blue monkeys. The park’s colobus monkey tracking is particularly special due to the large troop sizes, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. These primates are often found swinging through the tall trees along the trails, offering incredible wildlife photography opportunities.
Bird Watching in a Birder’s Paradise
Nyungwe is a sanctuary for bird lovers, boasting more than 300 bird species. Twenty-nine of these species are Albertine Rift endemics, making the park a vital destination for avian enthusiasts. Colorful birds like the great blue turaco, red-collared mountain babbler, and Rwenzori turaco are among the species that can be seen with a bit of patience and a sharp eye. With misty mornings and quiet trails, birding here is both peaceful and rewarding.
Hiking and Nature Walks Across Scenic Trails
Nyungwe offers over 130 kilometers of maintained hiking trails that range from short walks to full-day treks. Each trail unveils different aspects of the park’s ecosystem. The Igishigishigi Trail leads to the canopy walk, the Kamiranzovu Trail takes you to a lush wetland with rare orchids and frogs, while the Bigugu Trail ascends to the park’s highest point with breathtaking views. These hikes immerse travelers in ancient rainforest ecosystems filled with giant tree ferns, orchids, and butterflies.
Cultural Encounters and Community Experiences
The park is surrounded by local communities whose cultural stories are closely tied to the forest. Cultural experiences such as village walks, traditional dance performances, or visits to tea plantations near Gisakura give visitors a glimpse into the Rwandan lifestyle. Engaging with locals helps support conservation and sustainable tourism while adding depth to your safari.
Waterfalls, Wildlife, and Tranquility
Nyungwe’s hidden gems include cascading waterfalls like Isumo Falls, reached after a scenic trek through tea fields and forested gorges. Wildlife sightings include bush pigs, duikers, golden cats, and even elusive leopards, although sightings are rare due to the dense vegetation. For those looking to disconnect and be immersed in raw nature, the serenity of Nyungwe is unmatched.