GUIDE ON NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK IN RWANDA - EXPERIENCE CHIMPANZEE - PRIMATE TREKKING TOURS

Travel Planning Guide For Nyungwe Forest Park

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The stunningly beautiful Nyungwe National Park is situated in the southwestern corner of Rwanda and is part of the Albertine Rift eco-region, making it a great part of your wilderness primate vacation in Africa. Its mid-elevation forests are among the last of their kind on the African continent as well as important conservation sites. They host a high concentration of endemic flora and fauna, within an incredibly diverse biome. Travel through the 970 square kilometers of this woodland reserve and you will be introduced to some of the 310 avian species present here - a field day for avid birdwatchers in Rwanda. You may be lucky enough to spot white-headed wood hoopoes, paradise flycatchers, purple-breasted sunbirds, Ruwenzori turacos, and red-collared mountain babblers, to name just a few.

The mountain forests serve as a catchment area, supplying 70 percent of Rwanda’s water. The highest mountain, Mount Bigugu, serves as the southernmost source of the mighty Nile River. Runoffs from these forests on the east side eventually flow into the Nile, while those on the west feed another great African river, the Congo. Discerning holidaymakers often compare Nyungwe Park to Eden, since it has such an abundance of smaller fauna, including 13 species of primates, but no large and dangerous predators (read more on best time to visit). You can spend long hours exploring the forests by following the varied trails that run through them. The expert guides that accompany you will offer up their specialized knowledge about the trees—some 240 species— and 1068 documented varieties of plants, among them an unbelievable 140 types of gorgeous orchids.

Hiding away in the undergrowth are small mammals, insects, 120 species of colorful butterflies, reptiles, amphibians, and tiny invertebrates. The forest ranger will show you how to spot them in the camouflage that they use to hide from danger. Look up, way up, in the trees and you may spot some of the many apes and monkeys that Nyungwe National Forest is famous for. The blue monkey, Rwandan black and white colobus monkeys, owl-faced monkey, and perhaps even the golden monkey can be seen here. You can also keep an eye out for chimpanzees and other primates as you tour the forest. While the chimps are used to human presence, they tend to remain in the higher trees, and your guide will ask you to approach their habitat with care.

Perhaps the best way to experience this wonderland is by way of the Canopy Walkway. Strung high among the treetops is a sturdy steel bridge, built much like a traditional rope bridge but incredibly strong. From its high vantage point, you can look down towards the forest floor to spot the many varieties of birds and monkeys present at this elevation. From time to time your path along the Canopy Walkway will pause at viewing decks that offer a 360-degree view of the greenery, often partially enveloped in mist. You can also enjoy the park’s distinct scenic waterfalls or explore its dense bamboo forests. Before completing your trip, you’ll want to take the opportunity to spend time with the people of Nyungwe Forest National Park and immerse yourself in ancient Rwandan culture. Enjoy traditional dance and music forms and take a good look at the exquisite crafts they create.