About Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe Forest National Park in southwest Rwanda is one of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests in Africa, estimated to be over 70,000 years old. The 1,019 km² park sits at elevations between 1,600m and 2,950m, creating a cool, mist-shrouded montane forest ecosystem of extraordinary biodiversity.
The Famous Canopy Walk
Nyungwe's canopy walkway is one of the most thrilling experiences in Rwanda. The suspension bridge stretches 200 metres through the forest canopy, with viewing platforms at 50 metres above the forest floor. The views are breathtaking — a vast sea of ancient green forest stretching to the horizon, with Lake Kivu visible on clear days.
Chimpanzee Tracking
Nyungwe is home to approximately 500 chimpanzees — one of the largest populations in East Africa. The habituated Cyamudongo chimpanzee community is the most reliably found. Treks depart at 5am to maximize chances of finding chimps before they disperse for the day. The experience involves hiking through misty forest following the sounds of hooting and crashing branches.
Primate Diversity
With 13 primate species, Nyungwe offers one of the richest primate-watching experiences in Africa. Large troops of Angola colobus — numbering up to 400 individuals — are commonly seen at the Uwinka visitor centre. L'Hoest's monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys and olive baboons are also regularly spotted.
