Nyungwe Forest National Park is a high latitude mountainous rainforest located in the southern part of Rwanda and was conserved in 2005. Read More
Nyungwe Forest hosts two chimpanzee fully habituated chimpanzee groups which are tracked by visitors daily. One group is found in Nyungwe main forest and the second chimpanzee group is found in Cyamudongo, a small patch of the forest that is located in the eastern part of Nyungwe forest national park.
Every trek to the jungle’s charismatic primates is different. Chimpanzees are full of surprises! The all-great journey to chimpanzees starts from mainly three reception centers; Kitabi, Uwinka (the main center) and Gisakura where all tourists meet the park ranger guides. Read More
By 4:30 am, visitors going for chimpanzee tracking are expected to be at the specific centers for a briefing and to ensure that they can all drive to point where the trek starts at 5am.
A rustle of leaves, and then, through the branches, you will spot a chimpanzee gazing down from the fig trees. You will be amazed by a group of tree-dwelling playful chimpanzees slinging off from the canopy. Visitors are permitted to spend a maximum of one hour with the chimpanzees.
The group in Cyamudongo has got approximately 30 members yet offering the most successful sightings compared to the group in the main center of Nyungwe with about 60 members. This is because of the rugged terrain of the forest which makes it hard or close to impossible to see the chimpanzees.
A chimpanzee tracking permit in Rwanda costs 90 US Dollars per person per day, and the minimum age for chimpanzee tracking is 16 years. Visitors are advised to dress appropriately for the activity. We advise trekkers to put on hiking shoes or boots, long sleeved shirts, a rain jacket, and pants. At least 2 liters of drinking water and snacks will keep you energized as you enjoy the trek.
We have travelled allover Rwanda and tested every possible route to enable us to design itineraries that work absolutely smoothly, covering many of the country’s highlights at just the right pace and timing. Packed with unique experiences and handpicked hotels, our tours deliver unforgettable travel memories.
The protected Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to chimpanzees and monkeys, offering an unforgettable opportunity to see these incredible animals up-close. Research shows that chimpanzees have got around 99% of the original human DNA, and you are yet to find out why.
Nyungwe is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, rich in biodiversity and stunningly beautiful with the mountainous region teaming with wildlife. Along with various other activities offered by this spectacular rainforest, visitors can have memorable and photogenic moments walking along the Canopy Walk suspension bridge.
Suspended above a ravine in the lush mountain rainforest of Nyungwe National Park, the canopy walkway provides a thrilling perspective on the ancient treetops and wildlife. Read More
There are very high chances of encountering with the thirteen species of primate that call Nyungwe home, although those who wish to see them at a closer range should opt for a dedicated primate visit.
A guided tour to the canopy walkway costs 60 US Dollars per person and the minimum age for the canopy walk is 6 years however, children under their parent’s watch and guidance can be allowed to enjoy the experience.
Be cautious about the slippery and muddy footpaths especially during the rainy season. Therefore, it is essential to wear suitable footwear and take a lightweight raincoat.
There are several accommodations in Nyungwe Forest National Park, some of which are located inside the park and others in areas surrounding the stunning park. They range from Luxury, Medium and Budget accommodations all offering wonderful services respectively.
Refer to our List of Recommended Accommodations and choose the best.