Self Drive Guide to Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park, a crucial protected area for biodiversity protection in Rwanda, is situated in the Rusizi District of the Southern Province. The protected area is 1,019 square kilometers (633.7 square miles) and constitutes a segment of the Albertine Rift Valley. The park was designated in 2004 to save diverse wildlife in Nyungwe Forest, including 13 species of primates. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) reports that a section of Nyungwe.
e, specifically the Cyamudongo forest, has been invaded by encroachers. The local towns around the protected region have one of the highest human population densities in Rwanda, approximately 1,000 individuals per square kilometer. Consequently, significant demand was placed on natural resources due to the hunting of bushmeat, collecting of firewood, production of charcoal, harvesting of medicinal plants, and extraction of water. Indeed, forest elephants and Congo buffaloes were on the brink of extinction in the park due to poaching. To bolster the management of Nyungwe Forest, the RDB established a long-term relationship with the African Parks Network (APN) in 2020 to improve conservation, safeguard the park, and benefit neighboring people. Over 6,000 individuals and 1,000 children are currently engaged in park management through environmental clubs.
Flora in the park
Nyungwe is an afro-montane tropical forest situated at altitudes between 1,600 meters and 2,950 meters above sea level. Variations in altitude result in diverse flora types, including bamboo at medium altitude (1,800m) and open papyrus swamps and grasslands at lower elevations. The ecosystem predominantly consists of a dense forest characterized by interwoven trees and plants. The forest comprises 1,068 plant species, of which 137 are indigenous to the Albertine Rift, as per the African Parks database. Endangered hardwood tree species, such as brown Mahogany and Entandrophragma, can reach heights of up to 45 meters. Gastrodia rwandensis is a distinctive blooming plant peculiar to Rwanda that does not rely on photosynthesis; rather, it derives sustenance from fungi for its growth.
Fauna
One objective of the alliance is to transform Nyungwe Forest into a sustainable tourism destination. The park harbors a diverse array of life, featuring 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and endangered monkeys. Included are golden monkeys, Hamlyn’s monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, gray-cheeked mangabeys (Cercocebus albigena johnstoni), L’hoest monkeys, and dwarf galagos (Galago demidoff). Additional species comprise blue monkeys (Cercopithecus mitis doggetti), red-tailed monkeys, velvet monkeys, and olive baboons.
The forest is renowned for hosting the biggest number of black and white colobus monkeys, with a troop exceeding 400 individuals acclimated to tourism. Nyungwe Forest hosts 322 bird species, including more than 16 Albertine Rift Endemics (AREs) such as the stripe-breasted, red-faced woodland warbler, Dohote’s bushrike, Rwenzori turaco, and purple sunbird. For those seeking to observe primates in their natural habitat, Nyungwe is among East Africa’s premier attractions and deserves a place on your Rwanda safari itinerary. Chimpanzees and colobus monkeys are the most coveted primates that have been acclimatized for tourism. The park hosts 75 mammal species, including leopards, big forest hogs, porcupines, tree hyrax, two-spotted palm civets, giant forest squirrels, mountain sun squirrels, Lord Derby’s flying squirrels, slender mongooses, marsh mongooses, and black-fronted duikers. Observing these mammals in Nyungwe is challenging; nevertheless, the likelihood increases for anybody planning to trek into the forest’s interior.
Things to Do in Nyungwe National Park
Visiting Nyungwe National Park offers several activities, including canopy walks, chimpanzee trekking, colobus monkey tracking, hiking, and birdwatching. The neighboring communities to the park provide camping, as well as tea and coffee experiences. Visitors are prohibited from independently exploring the park and must be accompanied by a tour guide recommended by the RDB. Driving on the major thoroughfare through the park is permissible and requires 1.5 hours to go from one end to the other. Reservations for activities in Nyungwe can be made via the Rwanda Development Board’s online portal, Irembo, or through a reputable tour operator. All activities in the park commence at one of the three visitor information centers; visitors must ascertain their precise location in advance to arrive punctually. Children under 16 years are prohibited from participating in primate trekking, but may engage in all other activities.
Trekking chimpanzees
Cyamudongo is a montane forest situated at an elevation ranging from 1,700 to 2,100 meters above sea level. The forest spans five hills encircling the Nyamabuye river valley and harbors a diverse ecosystem, featuring a substantial population of about 600 chimpanzees and several avian species. The forest is renowned for hosting flora and fauna species native exclusively to Rwanda, including Polystachya bruechertiae, Boulengerula fischeri (an amphibian), and Gastrodia rwandensis, a blooming plant that relies on fungi for sustenance rather than photosynthesis.
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park occurs in Cyamudongo Forest, an isolated region integrated into the protected zone in 2004. Visitors must be cognizant of the starting location and remain in proximity to ensure timely reporting. Chimp trekking may commence at either the Uwinka or Kitabi centers; so, it is essential to communicate with your guide or park authorities to ensure you proceed to the correct location. Tracking commences early in the morning, between 7:00 am and 7:30 am, during which RDB guides will provide a briefing on anticipated experiences. Ensure to report there equipped with appropriate gear for chimpanzee tracking, which should include hiking boots, long trousers, insect repellent, a camera with additional batteries, a packed lunch, and drinking water. Hiking can be arduous due to the terrain, hence thorough planning is essential for successful trekking. Locating the chimpanzees may require 2 to 5 hours. Porters can be hired for an additional fee to assist with luggage transport and provide support when hiking.
Tracking of Colobus monkeys
Nyungwe Forest is home to East Africa’s largest troop of black-and-white colobus monkeys, with approximately 400 individuals. Colobus monkeys have been recorded foraging collectively, with most individuals acclimated, facilitating visitor observation of these primates in their natural habitat. Tracking of Colobus monkeys in Nyuwe Forest National Park commences at the Uwinka and Gisakura tourist centers. At Uwinka, the activity occurs in the morning, with the initial session commencing at 7 am and a subsequent session at 11 am. Tracking at the Gisakura visitor information center takes place in many sessions at 8 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM. Reservations for colobus monkey tracking must be made in advance.
Tracking of Mangabey monkeys
Mangabeys are an endangered species of old-world monkeys native to Africa.Two subspecies of mangabeys exist, distinguished by physical characteristics: the crested mangabey and the white-eyelid mangabey. Nonetheless, every species possesses a tail that exceeds the length of its body. Nyungwe Forest, in particular, hosts a significant population of gray-cheeked mangabeys. Commonly referred to as ‘the ones with slender waists’, they are identifiable by their vocalizations audible from a distance of 1 kilometer. This facilitates their identification; yet, when communicating, they are typically observed residing in groups of 10 to 40 individuals. Tracking mangabeys in Nyungwe commences at the Uwinka visitor center at 9:00 AM; advance booking is advisable.
Canopy walkway
The Nyungwe forest canopy walk spans 160 meters, equivalent to one and a half football pitches. The canopy walkway, likely the longest in Africa, is hung at heights of 90m, 45m, and 25m above the ground. Visitors may choose a segment according to their comfort with elevations. The opaque and non-threatening paths permit children of all ages to participate in the canopy tour. Visitors must arrive at the Uwinka tourist center in advance for a briefing at 8 AM, 10 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM. The journey to the canopy walkways entails a 2.4 kilometer hike along the Igishigishigi route, which requires 1.5 hours, followed by a 2-hour canopy walk.
Hiking
Nyungwe Forest National Park features 22 hiking paths that traverse picturesque locations, birdwatching sites, waterfalls, and local tea farms. Eleven trails originate from the Uwinka visitor center, including the Kamiranzovu waterfalls trek, canopy walk, and colobus monkey tracking. The Imbaraga Trail features four waterfalls, the Isumo Trail leads to the Gisakura tea plantation, and the Umuyove Trail is home to many large tree types and medicinal plants. Hiking routes are also available at the Gisakura and Kitabi Centers. Data regarding the range, distance, and time can be acquired from that source.
Points of interest in Nyungwe National Park
Kamiranzovu Waterfalls
The Kamiranzovu waterfalls, measuring 50 meters in length, are a stunning location for avid photographers and are the most impressive in Nyungwe National Park. The falls are segmented into two sections: the first features water cascading down rocks, while the second is positioned in front of the rushing water. The 10 kilometer round trek takes 6 hours and allows guests to traverse the forest interior to a vast marsh, the origin of the falls. Visitors are required to be accompanied by a guide and should have a packed lunch, drinking water, a rain jacket, and a hiking stick. The trail has challenges owing to the terrain’s characteristics, and precipitation may occur at any point throughout the day. During the hike, the guides discuss the flora and wildlife, and you may observe primates and birds.
Mount Bigugu
Mount Bigugu, at an elevation of 2,950 meters (9,583 feet), is the tallest mountain in Nyungwe Forest National Park and southwestern Rwanda. RDB has established pathways granting people access to the peak. The altitude ascended when traversing the 7 km nature walk is 666 m. This climb might be classified as moderate to challenging, although it is rewarding owing to the avian observation chances and breathtaking vistas at the summit. Numerous species may be observed, including the Albertine Rift endemics like the red-faced woodland warbler and the striped-breasted tit.
Experience in Banda village
Banda offers the opportunity to engage with inhabitants, understand their lifestyles, and observe their participation in conservation through their artistic endeavors. Over 6,000 individuals reside in Banda village, the majority of whom depend on natural resources and practice sustainable agriculture. Tourism has assisted these individuals in addressing issues by facilitating access to clean water, energy-efficient stoves, and enriching arts and crafts activities through a revenue-sharing system. Banda has become a paradigm of sustainable development, offering opportunity to engage in Rwandan traditional dances, basket weaving, banana beer brewing, and community health care volunteering, among other initiatives.
Accommodations in and surrounding Nyungwe National Park
Regarding lodging, there exists a multitude of possibilities to contemplate;
Arbor Shelter
The Nyungwe Tree House is a component of the acclaimed One & Only luxury resorts and private residences. Experience premium cuisine and amenities, including a swimming pool and spa. The lodge is intended to host individuals, families, and couples, featuring 5 wooden tree-top villas and 22 luxury rooms situated at the periphery of the primary forest, overlooking the Gisakura tea plantation near the eastern entrance gate. Visitors can experience exceptional vistas and auditory sensations of the jungle.
Katabi Ecotourism Center
The Katabi Eco-tourism Center provides a mid-range accommodation choice beside a camping area for pitching personal tents. Accommodation is offered in traditional huts, providing an authentic Rwandan cultural experience. While the rooms are nice, they lack en-suite facilities, necessitating a departure from the room for restroom use. Venturing outdoors at night is safe, as the cottages are situated within a walled palace monitored by security officers. The lodge promotes local community conservation and employs numerous individuals, including former poachers. Their kitchen and restaurant provide locally sourced food, featuring a daily menu that includes Rwandan cuisine alongside international specialties such as pizza. Carbonated beverages and beers are also offered.
Camping in Nyungwe Forest
Camping sites in Nyungwe Forest are located near the Uwinka Visitor Information Center and adjacent to the canopy walk along the Igishigishigi Trail. The site has fundamental toilet amenities and elevated wooden platforms, ensuring a secure environment for jungle camping. Individuals planning to camp in Nyungwe Forest should notify the RDC or a travel operator. Food and beverages are available at the Uwinka visitor center canteen.
Directions to the destination
Located in the Southern Province, Nyungwe National Park is 218.3 km (a 5-hour trip) southwest of Kigali, the capital city, and 201 km (a 4-hour drive) south of the resort town of Gisenyi. The park contains three Rwanda Development Board (RDB) offices: Uwinka centrally located, Gisakura situated on the western side, and the Katabi Eco-tourism facility positioned on the eastern side. Both are linked by an asphalt road that traverses the woodland. Reservations are exclusively accessible in Uwinka, the primary visitor center of the park. Visitors are encouraged to reserve activities, such as chimpanzee trekking, in advance via the online Irembo government website and through tour providers.
Rusizi town, previously known as Cyangugu, is located 57 km (about one hour’s drive) from the eastern entrance gate. The park is accessible by air via Kamembe Airport (KME), located 3 km north of the town and 57 km away, approximately a 1-hour and 30-minute journey. Helicopter trips to Nyungwe Forest last about 45 minutes and are only offered by Akagera, the sole business providing aerial safaris to all national parks in Rwanda.