One of Africa's oldest and most biodiverse rainforests 1,019 km² of ancient montane forest home to 13 primate species including chimpanzees, and the iconic canopy walkway suspended 70 metres above the forest floor.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa's oldest and most biodiverse rainforests, covering 1,019 square kilometres of ancient montane forest in Rwanda's south-west corner. Estimated to be over 29,000 years old, Nyungwe has survived multiple ice ages and global climate shifts, earning its status as one of the continent's most ecologically significant protected areas. The forest is home to 13 primate species the highest concentration in East Africa including chimpanzees, Angola colobus, L'Hoest's monkeys, olive baboons, and the rare grey-cheeked mangabey. Nyungwe's iconic canopy walkway a series of suspended bridges stretching 200 metres through the forest canopy at heights of up to 70 metres has become one of Rwanda's most photographed tourist attractions. The park is also exceptional for birdwatching, with over 310 recorded species including 29 Albertine Rift endemics the wet season brings migrant species and more active forest bird behaviour, making it a rewarding time for serious birders despite muddier trails. The forest protects the headwaters of the Nile river, adding historical and geographical significance to its ecological importance.
Nyungwe at a Glance
13
primate species the highest concentration in East Africa including chimpanzees, Angola colobus, and the rare grey-cheeked mangabey.
The
iconic canopy walkway, suspended up to 70 metres above the forest floor across 200 metres of bridges.
One
of Africa's oldest rainforests, estimated at over 29,000 years old and home to the headwaters of the Nile.
Over
310 recorded bird species including 29 Albertine Rift endemics.
Follow expert trackers through dense rainforest to spend time with habituated chimpanzee groups, watching them forage, socialise, and travel through their ancient forest home an experience increasingly rivalling Uganda's Kibale Forest.
Cross the 200m suspended canopy bridge network at heights of up to 70m, scanning for colobus monkeys, turacos, and hornbills in the forest crown one of Rwanda's most spectacular and photographed experiences.
Join trackers following troops of Angola colobus monkeys as they move through the forest one of the most visually spectacular primate encounters in Africa, with troops of hundreds moving through the canopy overhead.
Over 310 recorded bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics, make Nyungwe a rewarding stop for birders alongside its exceptional primate viewing.
Nyungwe's forest protects the headwaters of the Nile River, adding historical and geographical significance to one of Africa's oldest rainforests.
One&Only Nyungwe House sits within a working tea estate at the forest edge, with sweeping views across the plantation to the ancient canopy beyond.
Nyungwe Forest is approximately 5–6 hours by road from Kigali (225km south-west). Most visitors travel via Huye (Butare), Rwanda's second city. The park entrance at Uwinka is on the main Huye–Cyangugu highway. Some travellers combine Nyungwe with a Lake Kivu stay, arriving via the scenic road from Cyangugu. Domestic flights may connect Kigali to Kamembe airport near the forest.
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Nyungwe House set within a working tea estate at the forest edge. Exceptional service and sweeping views across the plantation to the forest.
LuxuryNyungwe
Top View Hill Hotel elevated position with panoramic forest views.
Mid-RangeGisakura
Guest House park-operated, simple and convenient, right by the forest.
Mid-RangeBigugu
Eco-Lodge comfortable eco-lodge close to the main trailheads.
LuxuryOne&Only
Nyungwe House set within a working tea estate at the forest edge. Exceptional service and sweeping views across the plantation to the forest.
LuxuryNyungwe
Top View Hill Hotel elevated position with panoramic forest views.
Mid-RangeGisakura
Guest House park-operated, simple and convenient, right by the forest.
Mid-RangeBigugu
Eco-Lodge comfortable eco-lodge close to the main trailheads.