Discover Nyungwe National Park: A Premier Destination for Primate Safaris

Are you a lover of primates looking for an unbeaten destination with a vast variety of species? Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda is the definitive answer to your quest.

The Ancient Landscapes of  Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe Forest is strategically situated in southwestern Rwanda, bordering Burundi to the south and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. This park’s rainforest is recognized as the best-preserved montane rainforest in Central Africa. It is thoughtfully positioned within the watershed between the River Nile and the Congo River. Furthermore, this ancient forest has been in existence for thousands of years.

A History of Conservation and Restoration

During the colonial era in 1903, Nyungwe was pronounced a forest reserve by the German colonial government. Unfortunately, the period between 1958 and 1973 saw the forest reduced due to deforestation, fire outbreaks, and poaching. Although the elephant population remained stable, the last of the buffaloes was killed in 1974. While tourist facilities were later established in Uwinka, they were destroyed during the 1994 Rwanda Genocide.

However, a wave of restoration was initiated in 1995. These efforts were maintained until 2005, when Nyungwe was officially declared a National Park. Consequently, the park is now ranked with Rwanda’s highest protection level for nature conservation.

Unmatched Biodiversity and Primate Species

A wide diversity of animal species is possessed by this destination, making it a priority for conservation in Africa. The forest is positioned where several biogeographical zones meet; therefore, a great span of microhabitats is provided for many different plants and animals.

Nyungwe National Park is currently home to over 13 primate species, which represents 25% of Africa’s total. Some of the primates that can be observed include:

• Common Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)

• Ruwenzori Colobus

• L’Hoest’s Monkeys

• Silver Monkeys and Golden Monkeys

• Red-tailed Monkeys and Dent’s Mona Monkeys

• Olive Baboons and Grey-cheeked Mangabeys

Top Activities: Primate Trekking and Hiking

Because over 13 primate species live here, the park is considered an ideal place for primate trekking. This activity is commenced early in the morning with a pre-trekking briefing at the Uwinka Visitor Centre. From this headquarters, guides and porters can be obtained to assist you as the jungle is explored.

In addition to trekking, approximately 130 kilometers of hiking trails have been put in place. These trails allow the interior of the forest to be explored over one to eight hours. Notably, the Igishigishigi Trail is the shortest route, yet it includes East Africa’s highest canopy walk. For those seeking a challenge, the six-hour Bigugu Trail leads visitors to the highest mountain in the park at 2,950m.

The Famous Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk

The tallest and longest canopy walk in East Africa is found only at Nyungwe National Park. This magnificent structure is suspended 50 meters above the ground, allowing a unique perspective of the forest to be experienced. From this height, different primates can be seen moving through the tree branches.

A Paradise for Birding Enthusiasts

With approximately 300 bird species—27 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift—Nyungwe is a perfect destination for birders. Endemic species such as the Grauer’s Warbler can be found within mountain swamps like Kamiranzovu. Additionally, the Rwenzori Turaco, Great Blue Turaco, and various Sunbirds are frequently spotted in flowering trees. Truly, this forest should be considered your next birding paradise.