Nyungwe Forest National Park protects a vast, ancient montane rainforest in southwestern Rwanda. It shelters thirteen primate species, including chimpanzees and large troops of Angolan colobus monkeys, alongside over 300 bird species and Africa's highest canopy walkway.
Canopy Walkway
Walk a 70-metre-high suspension bridge above the forest floor.
Chimpanzee Tracking
Follow habituated chimp communities through dense rainforest.
Colobus Monkey Trekking
Encounter troops of up to 400 Angolan colobus monkeys.
Bird Watching
A top birding destination with numerous Albertine Rift endemics.
Quick Facts
Why Visit Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe is one of the best-preserved montane rainforests in Africa, offering a very different experience from Rwanda's volcanic gorilla parks — cooler, denser, and rich in biodiversity.
What to Expect
Chimp tracking in Nyungwe can be more physically demanding than gorilla trekking in Volcanoes, since chimps range more widely and move faster through the canopy.
- Chimp tracking typically starts very early, around 5am
- The canopy walk is a shorter, less strenuous activity suitable for most visitors
- Waterproof hiking boots are recommended given frequent rain
Good to Know Before You Go
Planning ahead makes all the difference at Nyungwe Forest. Most visitors coordinate Chimp Tracking & Canopy Walk with the wider Southwestern Rwanda region, and timing your trip around Jun – Sep & Dec – Feb generally offers the most rewarding experience.
- Book permits several months in advance, especially during peak dry season
- Wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots and pack a rain jacket regardless of season
- A reasonable level of fitness makes the experience far more enjoyable
- Hire a local porter — it directly supports the surrounding community
Most travelers pair a visit to Nyungwe Forest with nearby highlights such as Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park — ask your safari consultant about combining sites into a single seamless itinerary rather than backtracking between stops.
