Chimpanzee Tracking vs Colobus Monkey Tracking in Rwanda

Can I combine chimpanzee tracking with colobus monkey tracking

Nyungwe Forest National Park is a lush green forest angelically placed in the south western part of Rwanda, it is known for its incredible biodiversity making is a great location for nature lovers, it is home to many primate species including the chimpanzees, L’hoest monkeys, Red tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, grey checked mangabey, silver monkeys, owl faced monkeys, vervet monkeys, olive baboon to mention a few, these present the opportunity of meeting chimpanzee and colobus monkeys in their natural habitats. Here, there is a possibility of combining colobus monkey tracking and colobus monkey tracking, both activities offer an incredible experience of the wilderness.

Chimpanzee tracing in Nyungwe is the key attraction of the conservation area; guests have the unique opportunity to view chimps in their natural habitats, these have been scientifically proven to share up to 98% of the human DNA, closest to mankind, there are only 2 habituated communities found in Uwinka and Cyamudongo, tracking starts in the early morning from 5:00 am Rwandan time taking 2-4 hours depending on how far the primates have moved. You are required to be physically fit during the walk as it involves walking up and down through the forest. Once these are found, visitors are allowed to spend an hour with the primates observing and enjoying them perform their day-to-day duties.

Colobus monkey tracking in Nyungwe is a fascinating experience, there are over 300 individuals present in the forest one of the largest troops of Colobus monkeys, imagine meeting so many monkeys all tucked in black and white!, the activity is not as tiring as chimpanzees, they can easily be found in tree tops, their messy eating habits make it even more easy to find it takes 2-3 hours to locate the primates. The walks begin at 8:00 am and are guided by an experienced game ranger. Each group of walkers has a maximum of 10 members. Taking pictures of the primates can be difficult, and yet they tend to be photogenic. It is wise to set your camera ready.

Chimpanzee tracking and colobus monkey tracking can be combined in one trip; this requires 4 days and 3 nights in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Both activities are best done in the morning hours. Guests can choose to do chimpanzee tracking on the second day and rest in the evening, on the third day, do colobus monkey tracking.

Besides chimpanzee tracking, colobus monkey tracking can be combined with several other activities, like the famous canopy walk. This activity is only done in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Guests have the chance to view the forest from a different perspective, the long 50-meter suspended bridge allows seeing the forest from above, expect to see monkeys in the tree canopies and several bird species.  Guided nature walks and hikes to waterfalls within the park, as well as birding experiences, Nyungwe is home to over 300 species of birds, 27 of which are endemics of the Albertine Rift Valley region.

What to pack when tracking in Nyungwe includes light long-sleeved shirts and trousers, wear neutral colors like beige, insect repellents, a pair of binoculars, jackets, waterproof covers for phones and cameras, T-shirts, sunscreen, hand gloves for protection from the spikes, a backpack, water bottles, and any other important items of a personal nature.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda. It can be accessed by road, taking approximately 6 hours to reach the destination. Alternatively, guests can charter a helicopter to the nearest Airstrip from Kigali International Airport. There is available accommodation in the park, ranging from the best budget to luxury facilities.