Nyungwe Forest National Park |Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda
Nyungwe Forest National Park was officially established as a national park in 2004 and is one of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests.The park is home to over 1,000 species of plants, birds, mammals, and other wildlife, making it one of the most important conservation areas in Rwanda. Nyungwe Forest National Park is especially famous for chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks, birdwatching, and exceptional primate experiences.
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the most exciting wildlife activities in Rwanda. The experience involves following forest trails with experienced guides to locate chimpanzees in their natural habitat. During the trek, visitors have the opportunity to observe the daily behaviors of chimpanzees closely, including how they wake up, communicate, feed, play, rest, and interact with one another in the forest.
Visitors can also learn about the different plant species chimpanzees feed on and observe how long they spend feeding in specific areas. The trekking experience provides a fascinating insight into the social structure of chimpanzee groups, including identifying dominant members, observing how mothers care for their babies, and understanding group behavior within the forest.
Nyungwe Forest National Park offers researchers, photographers, nature lovers, and adventure travelers an incredible opportunity to experience one of Rwanda’s richest ecosystems while enjoying unforgettable encounters with chimpanzees and other primates in the wild.
Chimpanzee Trekking
In Nyungwe Forest National Park, there are two habituated chimpanzee groups available for trekking experiences. One group is located around Uwinka, while the other, larger group is found in the Cyamudongo Forest, a small but rich fragmented forest within the Nyungwe ecosystem.
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe’s Cyamudongo Forest is highly dependent on the movement and behavior of the chimpanzees on a particular day. Sometimes the chimpanzees move quickly through the forest, requiring visitors to follow them actively along the trails, which can make the trek more physically demanding and adventurous. In other moments, visitors may find the chimpanzees resting, feeding, or interacting calmly within the trees. These quieter moments provide the best opportunities to observe them closely, take photographs, and learn more about their individual behaviors and social interactions.
During the trek, visitors can identify differences between members of the chimpanzee group, observe feeding habits, watch mothers caring for young ones, and experience how socially active these primates are within their natural habitat.
Nyungwe Forest National Park ranges in elevation from approximately 1,600 meters to 2,950 meters above sea level, making some trekking trails steep and physically demanding. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended for visitors planning to participate in chimpanzee trekking. However, elderly visitors and those who prefer a slower pace can still enjoy the experience, as guides allow flexibility during the trek to ensure everyone has the opportunity to encounter the chimpanzees comfortably and safely. The chimpanzee trekking permits are only sold by Rwanda Development Board.
Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking In Nyungwe
Chimpanzees are mostly seen in the early mornings which means one wakes up around 4:00AM and 4:30AM you have to be at one of the three reception centers of Nyungwe depending on which side of the park you are. By 5:00am you will head to the starting point of the trek and no matter if you are to trek in Cyamudongo.
The chimpanzee group found next to Uwinka reception center can be visited and one requires to be with a park guide, whom is to be picked at Gisakura reception center around 4:30am. You then drive towards Uwinka reception center. The group is quite difficult to trek than the other group in Cyamudongo and they are over 40 individuals in the group.
Therefore in June, July to late august, the fig trees are rich in fruits thus making this a blooming period. This is the best time for the trekking of chimpanzees within Nyungwe national park and it’s also not a rainy season. The national park only allows one group to see a particular group of primates on a given day and when you meet them you only be with the species for only one hour.
Other Chimpanzee Trekking Destinations in Rwanda.
Nyungwe national park is not the only home of the chimpanzees but also the Gishwati Mukura national park which is the newest national park in Rwanda. The national park is found in the west of Rwanda and it’s among the areas with a high population of chimpanzees. Most of the chimpanzees have been habituated and are ready for tracking. Therefore incase Nyungwe is taken, one can opt for chimpanzee trekking in Gishwati Mukura national park.
This Park can be visited in 3 days .
3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Safari Overview
The 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park safari offers an unforgettable primate adventure in one of Africa’s oldest tropical rainforests. This safari is designed for travelers seeking close encounters with chimpanzees, breathtaking forest scenery, canopy walk experiences, birdlife, and nature exploration in Rwanda. Nyungwe Forest National Park is famous for its habituated chimpanzee groups, rich biodiversity, waterfalls, and over 13 primate species.
This short Rwanda safari gives visitors the opportunity to trek chimpanzees in either Uwinka or Cyamudongo Forest while enjoying scenic drives through Rwanda’s beautiful hills and countryside.
Short Itinerary 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Day 1: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park.
Day 2:Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park.
Day 3: Drive back to Kigali.
Request a quote.
Detailed Itinerary 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Your driver-guide will pick you up from Kigali after breakfast for a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwestern Rwanda. Along the journey, you will enjoy views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, tea plantations, local villages, and beautiful countryside landscapes.
Optional stops can be made at the former King’s Palace Museum, local markets, or cultural sites depending on your interests and arrival time.
Upon arrival at Nyungwe Forest National Park, check into your lodge, relax, and prepare for the chimpanzee trekking adventure the following morning.
Meal Plan
Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walk Experience
Early in the morning, head to the park headquarters for a briefing about chimpanzee trekking rules and safety guidelines. After the briefing, enter the forest with experienced park guides and trackers in search of habituated chimpanzee groups.
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park is an exciting and active experience. Depending on the movement of the chimpanzees, the trek can be easy or physically demanding. Once the chimpanzees are located, visitors spend time observing their behaviors, feeding patterns, social interactions, and playful movements in the forest canopy.
After lunch and relaxation at the lodge, proceed for the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walk. The suspended canopy bridge offers spectacular aerial views of the rainforest, birds, monkeys, and surrounding landscapes.
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Meal Plan
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Nature Walk and Transfer Back to Kigali
Enjoy breakfast before taking a guided nature walk through selected forest trails in Nyungwe Forest National Park. The walk offers opportunities to spot birds, monkeys, butterflies, waterfalls, and unique plant species found within the rainforest.
After the nature walk, begin the return journey to Kigali with lunch en route. Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be dropped off at your hotel or at Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
Meal Plan
Breakfast and Lunch
Safari Inclusions
Airport transfers in Rwanda
Chimpanzee trekking permit
Canopy walk fees
2 nights accommodation
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Private 4×4 safari vehicle
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Bottled drinking water during the safari
All park entrance fees
Safari Exclusions
International flights
Rwanda visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
Alcoholic drinks
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Accommodation Options
Luxury Lodges
One&Only Nyungwe House
Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Midrange Lodges
Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge
Gisakura Guest House
Budget Lodges
Camping and community guesthouses around Nyungwe Forest National Park
Why Book 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
Close encounters with chimpanzees in Rwanda
Experience the famous Nyungwe canopy walk
Scenic road trip across Rwanda
Professional safari guides and personalized service
Perfect short Rwanda primate safari
Suitable for researchers, photographers, and nature lovers
Why Book With Pieland Gorilla Safaris
Pieland Gorilla Safaris specializes in unforgettable primate and wildlife experiences across Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo. We provide well-organized safaris, experienced safari guides, comfortable safari vehicles, and personalized travel planning to ensure every traveler enjoys a smooth and memorable safari experience.
FAQs About 3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park
How difficult is chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park?
The trek can range from moderate to challenging depending on chimpanzee movement and forest conditions.
How long does chimpanzee trekking take?
Chimpanzee trekking may take between 2 to 6 hours.
What is the best time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park?
The dry seasons from June to September and December to February are considered the best.
What should I carry for chimpanzee trekking?
Hiking boots, rain jacket, long trousers, drinking water, gloves, and insect repellent.
How many chimpanzee groups are habituated in Nyungwe?
There are two habituated chimpanzee groups in Uwinka and Cyamudongo.
Is the canopy walk safe?
Yes, the canopy walk is safe and guided by experienced park staff.
Can elderly travelers do chimpanzee trekking?
Yes, elderly visitors can trek slowly with assistance from guides.
What other primates can be seen in Nyungwe Forest National Park?
Colobus monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, owl-faced monkeys, and other primates.
How far is Nyungwe Forest National Park from Kigali?
The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
Can this safari be customized?
Yes, the safari can be customized to match your travel preferences and budget.
Contact Us today to start planning a chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe National Park.
