Nyungwe Forest National Park
Rwanda's Ancient Montane Rainforest
About Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest is one of Africa's oldest montane rainforests, covering 1,019 km² of Rwanda's south-western highlands. It is home to 13 primate species including chimpanzees and the largest troop of black-and-white colobus monkeys in Africa (up to 400 individuals), as well as 280+ bird species. The famous Nyungwe canopy walkway — suspended 70 metres above the forest floor — is one of Rwanda's most photographed experiences.
Best time to visit
Wildlife you may see
- Chimpanzees
- Black-and-white colobus (400+)
- L'Hoest's monkey
- Red-tailed monkey
- Olive baboon
- African golden cat
- 280+ bird species
- Rwenzori turaco
Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park
All activities are available as part of East Africa Bridge Tours packages or as add-ons.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Join habituated chimp groups in their ancient forest home — trekking is more affordable here than in Uganda at USD 90 per permit.
Canopy Walkway
Walk 200 m across a suspension bridge 70 m above the forest floor for aerial views over the montane canopy.
Colobus Monkey Trek
Track the world's largest colobus troops through the forest — groups of 50–400 monkeys are regularly encountered.
Birding
28 Albertine Rift endemics recorded in Nyungwe, including the African green broadbill and Grauer's rush warbler.
Getting to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest is 225 km south-west of Kigali (5 hours) via Huye (Butare). The road is fully tarred. East Africa Bridge Tours includes transfers from Kigali in all Nyungwe packages. The park can also be reached from Bujumbura in 3.5 hours via Kayanza.
East Africa Bridge Tours packages visiting Nyungwe Forest National Park
- 3 days3-Day Akagera Big Five SafariRwanda
- 11 days11-Day Five Countries of the East African Community from EntebbeUganda · Rwanda · Congo (DRC) · Burundi · Tanzania
- 3 days3-Day Bwindi Gorillas from Kigali (Uganda)Rwanda · Uganda
- 3 days3-Day Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National ParkRwanda
- 4 days4-Day Nyungwe Rainforest & Chimp TrekRwanda
Nyungwe Forest National Park — Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does chimpanzee trekking cost in Nyungwe?
- Chimp trekking permits in Nyungwe currently cost USD 90–150 per person, making it significantly more affordable than Kibale Forest in Uganda (USD 200) or Bwindi gorillas (USD 800).
- What is the Nyungwe canopy walkway?
- The canopy walkway is a 200-metre suspension bridge system 70 metres above the forest floor. It's included in the guided Bigugu Trail and is one of the most popular activities in the park.
- Can I travel from Bujumbura to Nyungwe directly?
- Yes — Nyungwe can be reached from Bujumbura in approximately 3.5 hours via the Kayanza border crossing (Gasenyi/Nemba). East Africa Bridge Tours offers a direct Burundi–Nyungwe circuit.
- Is Nyungwe better than Kibale for chimpanzee trekking?
- Both have excellent habituation. Kibale (Uganda) has the highest chimpanzee density in Africa and more predictable viewing. Nyungwe is cheaper (USD 90 vs USD 200) and also offers the canopy walkway and 400-strong colobus troops. It's a more diverse day overall.
- What accommodation is available at Nyungwe?
- Top options include the luxury One&Only Nyungwe House for high-end stays, and the Rwanda Development Board guesthouses at Uwinka for budget travellers. East Africa Bridge Tours can book any tier.
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