Nyungwe National Park
One of Africa's oldest rainforests: chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and a canopy walk suspended above it all.
About the Park
A Living Fossil Forest
Nyungwe National Park protects roughly 1,000 square kilometres of montane rainforest in Rwanda's southwest, believed to be one of the oldest forests in Africa, having survived climate shifts that reshaped much of the continent's vegetation over millions of years. That age shows in its biodiversity: over 300 bird species, 75 mammal species and 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, Angola colobus monkeys travelling in troops of several hundred, and the localised Rwenzori colobus.
The park's signature attraction beyond wildlife is its canopy walkway (a 160-metre suspension bridge strung between towering trees roughly 70 metres above the forest floor), one of only a handful of such walkways in Africa. Guided nature walks range from an hour to a full day, taking in waterfalls, orchids and Nyungwe's dramatic tea plantation boundary.
See our chimpanzee trekking guide for details on tracking Nyungwe's habituated chimp community, or our broader hiking and adventure tours for the canopy walk and forest trails.
Getting There
Nyungwe sits roughly 5-6 hours by road from Kigali, or a shorter connection from Lake Kivu's southern shore near Kamembe. Most itineraries combine Nyungwe with time on Lake Kivu given their proximity.
Best Time to Visit
Nyungwe is a rainforest and receives rain year-round, but the driest, most comfortable trekking conditions fall in June-August and December-February. Even in the dry season, pack a rain layer: the forest earns its name for a reason.
Common Questions
Nyungwe FAQ
Can I see chimpanzees in Nyungwe?
Yes. Nyungwe has a habituated chimpanzee community that can be tracked with a permit, though sightings are less guaranteed than gorilla trekking since chimps range more widely and move faster through the canopy.
Is the canopy walkway safe?
Yes, it's a well-engineered, regularly maintained suspension bridge with safety railings throughout, suitable for most visitors comfortable with heights.
How many days should I spend in Nyungwe?
One full day covers the canopy walk and a primate walk; two days allows time for both chimpanzee trekking and a waterfall trail without rushing.
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