Deep in Rwanda’s mountainous southwest lies Nyungwe Forest—a lush, ancient rainforest that’s one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. Unlike the open savannahs most travelers associate with East Africa, Nyungwe is dense, mysterious, and full of life. It’s one of the oldest rainforests on the continent, untouched even by the last Ice Age.
Here, the trees whisper in the mist, and the forest floor teems with rare primates, birds, orchids, and butterflies. If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path adventure, this is it.
But Nyungwe isn’t just beautiful—it’s a place that feels alive. Every sound echoes with the heartbeat of Africa’s wild soul.
What You’ll Experience
Chimpanzee Trekking
Nyungwe is home to over 500 chimpanzees, and tracking them through the forest is a thrill. You’ll wake early, hike with expert guides, and suddenly—the forest bursts into life with calls, rustling branches, and glimpses of chimp families leaping through the canopy.
Africa’s Longest Canopy Walk
Walk 70 meters above the forest floor on a suspended bridge—the only canopy walkway in East Africa. It’s not just adrenaline—it’s breathtaking views, misty treetops, and a new perspective on the rainforest’s complex beauty.
Guided Nature Trails
There are 15+ hiking trails that wind through the forest, each revealing a new layer of Nyungwe—from waterfalls to bird sanctuaries. Perfect for those who want to go slow and soak it in.
Birdwatching Paradise
With over 300 bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics, Nyungwe is a dream for birders. Look for the Great Blue Turaco, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, and the elusive Red-collared Babbler.
Cultural Encounters
Visit nearby tea plantations or local villages to learn about Rwanda’s rural life and deep respect for conservation.
When to Visit
The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) offer the best trekking conditions, but the forest is green and mystical year-round.
Where to Stay
- Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House – A world-class eco-lodge on a working tea plantation.
- Midrange: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel – Panoramic views and cozy accommodations.
- Budget: Gisakura Guest House – Simple but charming, close to the park’s main entrance.
Getting There
Nyungwe is about 5–6 hours’ drive from Kigali, or 1 hour from Kamembe Airport (flights available from Kigali). The journey offers scenic stops like Lake Kivu and Huye (Butare), home to the National Ethnographic Museum.
Final Word
Nyungwe Forest is more than a destination—it’s a living cathedral of nature. It’s where silence speaks, where ancient trees tell stories, and where you feel what it truly means to be part of the wild. Whether you’re tracking chimps, walking above the treetops, or simply breathing in the rainforest air, you’ll leave with more than photos—you’ll leave changed.
