Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in the southwest of Rwanda, is characterized by a dense tropical forest with towering tree species that form a compact canopy. Nyungwe is the largest natural mountain rainforest in Africa, encompassing an area over 1,020 square kilometers. Nyungwe Forest National Park is the most preserved and conserved natural forest in Africa. Nyungwe Forest has demonstrated its status as the most significant biodiversity region in Africa; Nyungwe Forest National Park hosts over 310 bird species, 75 animal species, and 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and the distinctive golden monkeys.

Nyungwe Forest National Park was established in 2004 when the Rwandan government acknowledged the necessity to enhance tourism and enrich the visitor experience beyond mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park; this decision was prompted by the recognition of the forest’s remarkable natural resources in the southern region of the country. Nyungwe Forest National Park features a tourist center at Uwinka, where comprehensive information regarding the park, including routes and many attractions, is available prior to your hiking expedition across this expansive African jungle.

Nyungwe National Park is a 4 to 5-hour journey from Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. The expedition to the forest reveals enchanting vistas of blooming eucalyptus trees, terraced slopes, remote mountain dwellings, and splendid valleys across the roadway. The exhilarating experience commences prior to the true surprises concealed within the forest’s depths. Nyungwe is the premier destination for tourists, as indicated by Rwandan safari statistics.

Climatic Conditions of Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is the premier and most extensive afro-montane rainforest in Central Africa. It is situated at an elevation ranging from 1600m to 2950m above sea level, which is rather high. The forest receives over 2000 mm of yearly rainfall, likely due to the dense vegetation and elevated altitude of the region. Nyungwe Forest serves as the primary water source for Rwanda. It contains over two-thirds of Rwanda’s water supply. Nyungwe Forest contributes its water to the Congo River, with a portion also flowing into the Nile via the Akagera River. The environment of Nyungwe National Park necessitates caution and serves as a reminder regarding appropriate attire prior to engaging in activities within the park; it is advisable to wear warmer clothing, as the forest experiences the lowest temperatures during the morning hours.

Activities in Nyungwe national park

The Nyungwe Forest hike is regarded as the premier activity based on visitor feedback on Nyungwe Forest National Park, to the degree that the forest is referred to be a hiker’s paradise, featuring approximately 13 extensive hiking trails totaling around 130 km, providing an exhilarating experience. Hiking in Nyungwe Forest National Park can be a one-day activity or extend up to a whole week. This is feasible since Nyungwe Forest is home to over 1,000 species from a variety of environments.

The hiking commences at the visitor center in Uwinka and typically lasts between 1 to 8 hours; the duration is contingent upon the guests’ interests and primarily influenced by individual physical fitness. The hiking experience in Nyungwe can be tailored to the visitor’s preferences, whether for a single day or multiple days, and can include both extended and brief hikes, among other options. Hiking in Nyungwe Forest presents an ideal opportunity to explore the premier rainforest, where the extensive elevated metallic bridge, stretched about 50 meters above the forest, provides the most exquisite views of the landscape underneath.

Chimpanzee and monkey trekking

Chimpanzee and monkey trekking are intriguing activities conducted at Nyungwe Forest National Park. Nyungwe Forest National Park is an ideal destination for chimpanzee trekking, which can be contrasted with the remarkable gorilla trekking available in the adjacent Volcanoes National Park, situated in close proximity to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park is most advantageous in the morning when the chimpanzees descend from their arboreal nests. Chimpanzee trekking is limited to a maximum of eight individuals per group to preserve the ecological integrity of the forests.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to several chimpanzees, many of which are habituated, providing visitors with an extraordinary experience due to their familiarity with human interactions. Additionally, one may observe many species such as golden monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, Rwenzori colobus monkeys in groups of approximately 300, Lhoest’s monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, Mona monkeys, and blue monkeys, among others. It is advisable to bring a packed lunch, wear long trousers, and utilize rubber boots or appropriate hiking footwear. Additionally, a rain jacket is recommended for unpredictable weather, and a hat may be worn at your discretion.

Birding

Birdwatching is a favored activity among tourists to Nyungwe Forest National Park. Nyungwe Forest hosts approximately 300 bird species, with over 27 being native to this national park, while others are characteristic of the Albertine region. Birdwatchers in Nyungwe relish the observations of the Grauer’s Warbler, an endemic avian species of the Albertine Rift, predominantly located in mountain swamps such as Kamiranzozu within Nyungwe Forest National Park. Additional avian species including the gigantic hornbill, big blue turacos, weaver birds, herons, and sunbirds, among other prevalent birds of East Africa. In addition to observing birds, you get the opportunity to view a diverse array of butterflies, insects, snakes, and other woodland fauna.

Accommodation

Nyungwe offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from opulent lodges such as One & Only Lodges to more economical establishments like Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, which provides standard services at a budget-friendly price. It is situated on a hill overlooking the forest. The lodging in Nyungwe Forest will provide you with the opportunity to reside in an authentic African rainforest, enhancing your experience significantly.