Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park is a 1,020 km² ancient rainforest in southwestern Rwanda, one of the best-preserved montane forests in Central Africa. It is a biodiversity hotspot, home to 13 species of primates (including chimpanzees and the large Angolan colobus monkeys), over 300 bird species, and a stunning array of orchids and butterflies. The park's main attractions are chimpanzee tracking and the Nyungwe Canopy Walkway — a 70 m-high suspension bridge through the forest canopy.

Nyungwe is also an Important Bird Area and one of the most significant sites for forest bird conservation in Africa. The park is accessible from the town of Cyangugu to the west and from Butare to the east.

By plane: Kamembe Airport (KME IATA), 60 km west. By car/road: from Kigali (5–6 hours, 250 km) via Butare and Nyamagabe, or from Cyangugu (1.5 hours). A 4x4 is not essential but recommended in the wet season when roads can be slippery.

Walking with a park ranger/guide. The canopy walkway and all primate tracking is on designated trails. A vehicle is needed to reach the different trailheads within the park.

• Chimpanzees — habituated groups tracked in the forest

• Angolan colobus monkeys — large troops with striking black-and-white coats

• Canopy Walkway — a 70 m-high, 200 m-long suspension bridge through the treetops

• Kamiranzovu Swamp — a large swamp with unique birdlife

• Waterfalls — several within the forest

• Birdlife — 300+ species including the great blue turaco and Ruwenzori turaco

• Chimpanzee tracking (US$90 permit)

• Colobus monkey tracking (US$60 permit)

• Canopy Walkway experience (US$60)

• Guided nature walks on various trails (1–6 hours)

• Birdwatching tours

Meals are served at the lodges. The park itself has no restaurants — bring a packed lunch for full-day treks.

Bring water for treks. Drinks available at lodges.

• Budget: Gisakura Guesthouse — from US$30
• Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel — from US$80; Emeraude Kivu Resort (near Lake Kivu) — from US$70
• Upscale: One&Only Nyungwe House — luxury from US$800 (all-inclusive)

Souvenirs at the park office and lodges. Coffee and crafts from nearby communities.

• Cyangugu — 60 km west, Lake Kivu town
• Butare — 80 km east, cultural centre
• Kibuye — 100 km north, Lake Kivu resort
• Kigali — 250 km northeast, the capital