Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe National Park: Rwanda’s Primate and Adventure Haven

Set amidst the majestic landscapes of the Albertine Rift Mountains, Nyungwe National Park is a pristine rainforest teeming with life, making it an unrivaled destination for primate safaris, birdwatching, and hiking adventures. This ancient forest is a botanical treasure, boasting over 200 species of trees and a dazzling array of flowering plants, including the iconic giant lobelia and vibrant orchids that adorn its lush trails.

Renowned as a sanctuary for primates, Nyungwe is home to an extraordinary 13 primate species, solidifying its reputation as one of Africa’s top destinations for chimpanzee tracking and wildlife experiences. Marvel at the antics of playful Black-and-White Colobus monkeys, often seen in massive troops, and keep an eye out for the elusive L’Hoest’s monkey, a true gem of the forest.

Bird enthusiasts will find Nyungwe a paradise, as it is Rwanda’s premier birding hotspot. With nearly 300 bird species, including over 27 Albertine Rift endemics like the striking Ruwenzori turaco and the elusive grauer’s swamp warbler, this park is a dream come true for ornithologists and nature lovers alike.

For adventurers, Nyungwe offers an unparalleled hiking experience, featuring a network of well-maintained nature trails that wind through mist-shrouded mountains and dense canopies. The exhilarating Canopy Walkway, suspended high above the forest floor, offers sweeping views and an unmatched perspective of this untamed wilderness.

Whether you’re embarking on a thrilling primate safari, trekking along scenic trails, or soaking in the breathtaking biodiversity, Nyungwe National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the ultimate Rwandan adventure.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe National Park

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park with Universal Ventures Rwanda is an incredible adventure that brings you face-to-face with one of our closest animal relatives in their natural habitat. The trek through the lush, ancient rainforest of Nyungwe is an experience in itself, as you navigate through dense vegetation and hear the sounds of the forest coming to life. With expert guides from Universal Ventures Rwanda, you’ll learn about the park’s rich biodiversity and the behavior of the chimpanzees. Universal Ventures ensures that every aspect of the experience is seamless, providing knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and a well-organized itinerary, making your chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe a truly unforgettable one.

Canopy Walkway in Nyungwe

Departing from the Nyungwe Forest Visitor Centre, you’ll be in for some breathtaking views across the forest as you’re guided along the short Igishigishigi Trail. The trail can be steep in places, and you’ll walk for about half an hour to the starting point of the canopy trek. It’s quite an experience walking 60m above the forest floor, over the tree canopy, along the 200m, rope-style metal bridge.

The views from up here are stunning, and the adrenaline will no doubt be rushing through as the bridge sways. It can feel a bit unstable, especially in windy conditions, so we wouldn’t recommend this section of the walk for those who don’t have a head for heights – but the views from either side of the bridge, looking across to the Uwinkwa Ridge, are equally magnificent.

Black and White Colobus Monkeys

Spotting the Black and White Colobus Monkeys in Nyungwe National Park is a thrilling experience that adds a magical touch to any trek. These striking primates, with their distinctive black fur and long, flowing white tails, are a true highlight of the park’s diverse wildlife. As you trek through the lush rainforest, you’ll often hear the sound of their playful calls and rustling in the trees. The Colobus monkeys are agile, acrobatic, and tend to move gracefully through the canopy, making for an exciting sight. Universal Ventures Rwanda offers expert guides who ensure that you not only spot these beautiful creatures but also learn about their habits, habitat, and conservation efforts. Whether they’re leaping from branch to branch or grooming one another, encountering the Black and White Colobus monkeys in the heart of Nyungwe’s pristine forest is an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Secure a safari to Nyungwe National Park

Securing a safari to Nyungwe National Park with Universal Ventures Rwanda is the perfect way to experience the beauty and biodiversity of one of Africa’s most stunning rainforests. From the moment you reach out to Universal Ventures, their team ensures a seamless booking process, offering personalized itineraries tailored to your interests. Whether you’re looking for chimpanzee trekking, birdwatching, or simply exploring the park’s lush landscapes, Universal Ventures Rwanda takes care of every detail. Their knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and well-planned safaris ensure you can fully immerse yourself in the magic of Nyungwe, all while enjoying a stress-free and memorable experience. With their expert planning and dedication to customer satisfaction, securing a safari with Universal Ventures is your gateway to an unforgettable adventure in one of Rwanda’s most remarkable natural wonders.

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    Accommodations in and near Nyungwe National Park

    One&Only Nyungwe House

    For those seeking a high-end experience, One & Only Nyungwe House combines luxury with nature, offering exclusive, elegant rooms and suites. This retreat features world-class dining, a wellness center, and guided excursions into Nyungwe’s lush landscapes. It’s perfect for a tranquil, upscale safari experience.

    Nyungwe House

    A luxurious eco-lodge set within the heart of Nyungwe, Nyungwe House offers stunning views of the forest and exceptional service. It features spacious rooms with modern amenities, a pool, and a spa, perfect for relaxation after a day of trekking. Its proximity to the park’s key attractions makes it a top choice for visitors.

    Gisakura Guesthouse

    Gisakura Guesthouse provides a comfortable and affordable stay, nestled near the park’s entrance. Guests can enjoy simple yet cozy rooms with scenic views of the surrounding forest. It’s a great option for travelers seeking a more rustic experience without compromising on convenience and accessibility.

    Nyungwe Nziza Eco-Lodge

    A sustainable and eco-friendly lodge, Nyungwe Nziza Eco-Lodge offers an intimate, community-based experience. Guests can enjoy cozy rooms, farm-to-table meals, and guided treks, making it ideal for eco-conscious travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature. The lodge’s serene atmosphere complements the park’s beauty perfectly.

    Emerald Hills Nyungwe

    Set atop a hill with sweeping views of the Nyungwe Forest, Emerald Hills offers a mix of comfort and adventure. With modern amenities, spacious rooms, and easy access to hiking trails, it’s an excellent base for exploring the park’s biodiversity. The lodge also features a restaurant offering local and international dishes.

    Kivu Lodge

    Located just outside Nyungwe National Park, Kivu Lodge offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of Lake Kivu and the surrounding hills. The lodge features comfortable rooms, a restaurant with local cuisine, and a range of outdoor activities, including birdwatching and nature walks. It’s an ideal option for those looking to combine a visit to Nyungwe with a serene lakeside experience.

    Walking Trails in Nyungwe National Park

    Coloured Trails – these are left over from the late 1980’s when an early attempt to develop tourism in Nyungwe was made. There are seven trails through the forest each marked by a particular colour. The trails range in length from the 1km Grey trail to the 10km Red trail. 

    Waterfall Trail – this trail takes between 3-6 hours depending on how often you stop enroute. Monkeys are often seen along the way, making this trail a favourite among the birders as it is very rewarding for true forest interior birds, with a good chance of spotting Albertine rift endemics, such as the Rwenzori turaco.

    Kamiranzoru Trail – this trail is 4km and takes about 3 hours. This trail is different from the other forest walks because it takes you through the low laying marshy areas which are rich in orchids and localised swamp associated bird species.

    Bigugu Trail – this is the toughest trail and you need to be relatively fit as it leads you up the Bigugu peak. The Bigugu peak is 2,950m high and is the highest point in Nyungwe Forest.

    Chimpanzee Trekking Experience in Nyungwe National Park

    The only wat to track the chimpanzees in Rwanda; In so many ways, tracking the chimps is so different from the mountain gorilla experience, so unlike the mountain gorillas, the chimps are moving constantly around and at high speeds, jumping from tree to tree making noise. But the gorillas are usually found sitting eating quietly with in the forest clearings.

    The other big difference between these two is the tracking experiences and by this this the gorillas, one is usually allowed one hour of observing and taking photos of them, but with the chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda, there is no limit, keeping up with them is also the main challenge and the biggest determining factor of the amount of time that is spent with them.

    Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Nyungwe National Park today! Whether you’re trekking to see chimpanzees, spotting rare bird species, or simply soaking in the breathtaking landscapes, this lush rainforest has something for every nature enthusiast. Book your safari with Universal Ventures Rwanda now and let us take care of all the details for you, ensuring a seamless and extraordinary experience in one of Africa’s most biodiverse parks! Don’t wait—your adventure awaits!

    Book your dream Chimpanzee trekking safari in Nyungwe National Park with Universal Ventures Rwanda today. Contact us at +250781441853 or info@universalventuresrwanda.com to reserve your spot or customize your trip.