Nyungwe National Park is a stunning and unique destination located in the southwestern part of Rwanda. Covering an area of over 1000 square kilometers, it is one of the largest protected mountain rainforests in East Africa, and it is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

LOCATION

The park is located at an altitude of between 1,600 and 2,950 meters above sea level and is situated along the Congo-Nile Divide. This unique location means that the park is home to several distinct ecosystems, including rainforest, bamboo forest, grasslands, and swamps. Each of these ecosystems supports a unique range of plants and animals, and visitors to the park can expect to see a stunning array of biodiversity during their visit.

ATTRACTIONS

One of the main attractions of Nyungwe National Park is its incredible diversity of primates. The park is home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and mangabeys. Visitors can take part in guided tours of the park’s forests to track these primates and observe them in their natural habitat. The chimpanzees, in particular, are a major draw for visitors, as they are one of the few places in the world where visitors can see these great apes in the wild.

PRIMATES

In addition to primates, Nyungwe National Park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and several species of antelope. Visitors can take part in guided game drives to see these animals up close, or they can explore the park’s many hiking trails to see them in their natural habitat.

BIRDING

Another major attraction of Nyungwe National Park is its incredible birdlife. The park is home to over 300 species of birds, many of which are endemic to the region. Some of the most popular birds to see in the park include the Rwenzori turaco, the red-collared mountain babbler, and the great blue turaco. Visitors can take part in guided birding tours to see these birds up close and learn about their behavior and habitat.

The park’s diverse ecosystems also make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers. The park has over 130 kilometers of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging multi-day treks. The trails take visitors through a variety of habitats, including rainforest, bamboo forest, and grasslands, and offer stunning views of the park’s many waterfalls, valleys, and peaks.

CANOPY WALK

One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Canopy Walkway, which is the only one of its kind in East Africa. The walkway is suspended 50 meters above the forest floor and offers visitors a stunning bird’s eye view of the park’s canopy. The walkway is a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers, as it offers a unique perspective on the park’s incredible biodiversity.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Visitors to Nyungwe National Park can also take part in cultural experiences that give them a glimpse into the local way of life. The park is home to several communities of indigenous people, including the Batwa, who are believed to be the original inhabitants of the forest. Visitors can take part in guided tours of these communities to learn about their traditional way of life and their deep connection to the forest.

Overall, Nyungwe National Park is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. From its incredible primates and birdlife to its diverse ecosystems and hiking trails, the park is a nature lover’s paradise. And with its rich cultural heritage and connection to the local communities, it is also an ideal destination for those interested in learning about the region’s history and way of life.