Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park: Rwanda’s Ancient Rainforest
Nyungwe Forest National Park protects one of Africa’s oldest montane rainforests in southwest Rwanda. The park covers more than 1,000 square kilometres of misty ridges, deep valleys and clear streams. Thirteen primate species live here, including chimpanzees and large troops of Angolan colobus monkeys. In addition, more than 300 bird species and over 200 orchids make it a top nature destination.
Today, Nyungwe is a key part of Rwanda’s conservation story. Rangers, researchers and local guides work together to protect the forest. As a result, visitors enjoy quiet trails, expert guiding and a true wilderness feel. Our Rwanda primate safari combines chimpanzee tracking here with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. You can also read the official park guide on Visit Rwanda.
Things to Do in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Chimpanzee tracking is the main highlight of any visit to Nyungwe. Treks start early in the morning, when the chimps are most active. Expert guides lead you through the forest to a habituated group. Along the way, you may also spot L'Hoest's monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys and colobus monkeys.
You can visit Nyungwe all year. However, the dry months from June to September and December to February are best for hiking. The forest sits at high altitude, so mornings are cool and often misty. For this reason, pack warm layers and a rain jacket. Book permits early through the Rwanda Development Board or a trusted operator like us.
Nyungwe is a top birding site in East Africa. More than 300 species live here, and 29 of them are endemic to the Albertine Rift. Look out for the great blue turaco, Rwenzori turaco and red-collared babbler. The canopy walkway hangs about 70 metres above the forest floor. See our birding tours in Rwanda for more.
The park has about 130 kilometres of marked trails. Short walks such as Igishigishigi suit most visitors. Longer routes like Bigugu and Kamiranzovu lead to waterfalls, swamps and wide views. Explore more routes on our mountain hiking page.
Local communities have strong ties to the forest. For example, you can join a cultural village visit with traditional dance and crafts. Nearby, the Gisakura tea estate shows how tea grows and is processed. These visits support local families and, in turn, help protect the park. Many guests then continue to Lake Kivu to relax.
