Nyungwe National Park

Safari summary

Embark on a captivating journey to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a pristine rainforest in southern Rwanda, renowned for its high-altitude montane ecosystems and rich biodiversity. This sprawling forest, established as a reserve in 1933, is one of Africa's largest remaining montane rainforests and stretches across 1,015 square kilometers. It is a vital part of the Albertine Rift and is contiguous with Kibira National Park in Burundi. Nyungwe Forest is not only East Africa’s largest protected high-altitude rainforest but also a haven for a diverse range of wildlife and bird species.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred from Kigali to Nyungwe, a journey of approximately 226 kilometers taking around six hours. The route offers scenic views of the Rwandan landscape, including potential stops at local museums to enrich your understanding of the region’s culture and history.

The adventure begins with a thrilling chimpanzee tracking experience in Nyungwe Forest. Early in the morning, you’ll set out to Cyamudongo, home to Rwanda’s habituated chimpanzee population. Accompanied by a local ranger, you’ll trek through the lush rainforest, encountering a troop of about 40 chimpanzees. This hour-long trek offers a rare opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat, as they swing through trees and interact with one another. Besides chimpanzees, Nyungwe is home to various other primates, such as Silver Monkeys, L’Hoest Monkeys, and Red-Tailed Monkeys. Bird enthusiasts may also be fortunate enough to spot species like the striking Blue Turaco.

Following your chimpanzee encounter, you will enjoy a unique canopy walkway experience, providing a different perspective of the forest. The walkway allows you to view the rainforest from above, enhancing your appreciation of its dense foliage and diverse wildlife.

On the final day, immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Gisakura tea plantation. This tour offers insights into the traditional art of tea picking and the process of tea production. Wander through the lush tea fields, learn about the cultivation and harvesting of tea leaves, and experience the picturesque landscape of rolling hills and mountains that form the backdrop of the plantation.

After your tea plantation visit, you will be transferred back to Kigali. The return journey, covering the same 226 kilometers, takes approximately six hours, concluding your enriching experience in Rwanda’s remarkable Nyungwe Forest National Park.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Rwanda
	Parks	Nyungwe Forest

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Bird watching—with professional guide
• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• All drinks
• Meals
• Park fees

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas