Nyungwe Forest National Park

Amid Rwanda’s Misty Rainforests Meet Wildlife, Trails, and Canopy Adventures

Nyungwe Forest National Park has one of the best rainforests in Africa. It is shrouded in mist and teems with rare animals. Explore the area on chimpanzee treks, treetop walks, and birding trails. Rolling mountain ridges offer stunning views for nature lovers and people looking for excitement.

Area

1,020 sq km

Established

2004

Location

Southwestern

Altitude

1,600 – 2,950 m

Area

1,020 sq km

Established

2004

Location

Southwestern

Altitude

1,600 – 2,950 m

Climate

Humid Tropical

Terrain

Mountain Rainforest

Fauna

Chimpanzee Troop

Flora

Fern Understory

Exploring Rwanda’s Lush and Untamed Realm of Rare Wildlife

Birdwatchers will find themselves in paradise, with over 300 species recorded, 29 of them endemic to the Albertine Rift. Orchids bloom in abundance, while bamboo groves and marshlands add to the park’s natural variety.

Located in Rwanda’s southwest, Nyungwe stretches toward Burundi’s border and Lake Kivu’s southern reaches. It plays a vital role in the nation’s water supply, with rivers feeding both the Nile and Congo basins, underscoring its ecological importance beyond tourism.

Nyungwe Forest National Park stands as a biodiversity stronghold, sheltering Africa’s largest montane rainforest. Its rich ecosystem draws researchers, adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts from across the globe.

Home to 13 primate species, including habituated chimpanzees, Nyungwe offers intimate encounters on guided treks. The forest’s famed canopy walk, suspended high above the trees, delivers sweeping views of dense green expanses and thriving wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe Forest is visitable year-round, but June to September offers the driest conditions for trekking, primate spotting, and hiking, with clearer trails and minimal rainfall interruptions.

Best Time

June to September

High Season

June to September

Low Season

March to May

Best Weather

June to September

Best Time

June to September

High Season

June to September

Low Season

March to May

Best Weather

June to September

Explore East Africa’s Top Safari Packages

Discover an incredible collection of East Africa’s best safari packages. From thrilling game drives and breathtaking landscapes to rich cultures and abundant wildlife, find the perfect journey across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

Top Reasons to Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe also provides a lifeline to the region, with rivers flowing from the forest into both the Nile and Congo basins. This makes it not only beautiful but also essential for nature.

Exploring its misty ridges, bird calls, and hidden valleys creates a rewarding experience for every traveler.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Rwanda’s most treasured natural places. It stretches across rolling highlands and holds one of the oldest rainforests in East Africa. Visitors are welcomed by tall trees, fresh air, and green landscapes that remain vibrant throughout the year.

The park is known for its extensive walking trails that lead deep into the forest. These paths take you past waterfalls, streams, and areas filled with orchids, butterflies, and colorful plants. Many visitors enjoy the calm feeling of exploring these quiet corners.

The park’s canopy walkway is another highlight. Suspended high above the forest floor, it offers breathtaking views of the treetops and endless green horizons that seem to stretch forever.

From this height, you can genuinely appreciate Nyungwe’s scale and serenity. The soft breeze, bird songs, and distant mist create a feeling of peace that stays with you long after leaving the forest.

Nyungwe is one of the best places in Africa to see primates in their natural habitat. The forest is alive with chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and playful L’Hoest’s monkeys swinging through the canopy. Their calls echo through the trees, bringing the forest to life.

Tracking chimpanzees here is an unforgettable adventure. Guides lead visitors through thick vegetation to find these intelligent creatures, watching them feed, groom, and interact with one another in a way that feels both wild and familiar.

FAQs about Travelling to Top Destinations in Rwanda

Rwanda is a welcoming destination known for mountain gorillas, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. These FAQs answer the most common traveler questions to help you plan with ease.

What makes Rwanda a special safari destination?

Rwanda is famous for mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzees, and beautiful volcanic scenery. It also offers vibrant culture, safe travel conditions, and excellent hospitality.

The dry seasons from June to September and December to February are best for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing, with clear skies and easier hiking conditions.

Yes, Rwanda is considered one of the safest countries in Africa. Visitors can travel with confidence thanks to its stability, friendly people, and strict conservation policies.

Wear sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, and gloves. Neutral colors, rain jackets, and gaiters are also recommended for comfort in the forest.

Yes, gorilla permits are mandatory and should be booked in advance. Each permit allows one hour with a gorilla family and currently costs around $1,500 per person.

The Rwandan franc is the local currency. US dollars are also widely accepted, but notes must be from 2009 or newer. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels.

No, bottled or purified water is recommended for drinking and brushing teeth. Most lodges and hotels provide safe drinking water for guests.

You’ll find fresh local produce, grilled meats, and international cuisine. Traditional dishes include plantains, beans, and ugali, while Kigali offers a wide range of modern restaurants.

Yes, Rwanda is family-friendly with safe cities and guided tours. However, gorilla trekking requires participants to be at least 15 years old.

Most visitors travel by road in 4×4 safari vehicles, often with a driver-guide. Kigali has an international airport with flights connecting to regional and global hubs.

Explore East Africa’s Timeless Safari Destinations

Journey across Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, where landscapes shift from endless savannahs to misty mountains. Witness lions roaming the Serengeti, gorillas in Rwanda’s volcanoes, and elephants crossing Kenya’s plains. Each destination offers its own beauty, culture, and rhythm, creating a safari experience that defines East Africa’s untamed soul.

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"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

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"Amazing experience from start to finish! The guides were knowledgeable and friendly."

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"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

Jon H

JON H

Incredible Trip

"Amazing experience from start to finish! The guides were knowledgeable and friendly."

Anna L

ANNA L

Safari Adventure

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