How to get to Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda
How to get to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a centuries-old ecosystem and one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. The Park covers approximately 1,019 square kilometers and is notable for its biodiversity, including primates, birds, and flora. In 2004, the forest was recognized as a National Park to protect plant and wildlife species in the park. The Protected conservation area is tucked in the south-western part of Rwanda, bordering the phenomenal Lake Kivu, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi.
The Forest straddles the border with Burundi’s Kibira National Park, adjoining about 1000 square kilometers. It is home to several wildlife species, notably primates, like the chimpanzees and black and white colobus monkeys! Around 500 individuals of chimps live in the forest freely without being captured; some of these have been habituated for guest experiences. Besides the chimpanzee, other primates like the L’hoest monkeys, Rwenzori colobus, blue monkeys, silver monkeys, dent monkey monkeys, grey checked mangabey, and owl-faced monkeys are present in the park. There are over 300 species of birds, 27 of which are endemics of the Great Albertine Rift Valley region.
How to get to Nyungwe Forest National Park begins from Rwanda’s main entry point, Kigali International Airport, approximately 10km from the capital city center. It is from here that guests decide to drive or fly to the destination. Driving is one of the easiest ways; the country’s road network is well developed and maintained, it takes about 5-6 hours through the angelic backdrop of rolling mountains covered in green vegetation via Kigali-Muhanga-Nyanza-Nyamagabe and then to Nyungwe. The roads are smooth and great to drive through, except for viewing lots of tea plantations.
Most visitors use private vehicles arranged by tour operators to have a comfortable and more relaxed safari experience; however, they can opt to use public means, although this option takes a longer drive. Buses operate daily from Rusizi, you drop off at Nyamagabe or Gisakura tea estate, and thereafter take a private taxi or boda to the park gate.
When driving to Nyungwe Forest National Park, it is recommended to use a 4-wheel drive. If you intend to do safari activities, like chimpanzee tracking, guests are expected in the park a day earlier.
Besides driving to Nyungwe, the other option is to fly to the destination at the nearest Airport. Kamembe International Airport is the closest, taking 40-45 minutes. Flights are operated by Rwanda Air, and thereafter a ground transfer is arranged to the lodge for about1 hour drive. This is a very scenic drive as you pass through the angelic Lake Kivu.
Nyungwe Forest National Park features entry points. The most used one is through the Gisakura gate, to start chimpanzee tracking and the famous Nyungwe canopy walk. The Uwinka visitor center is another point serving as a beginning point for hikes and guided walks in the forest. All entry points are managed and operated by the Rwanda Development Board, making it easy for guests to register for activities.
Things to do in Nyungwe Forest National Park include chimpanzee tracking, a main activity in the park, where guests have the chance to meet man’s closest relatives within their natural habitats. The canopy walk is the highlight of the park; it is the only place in East Africa where this activity can be done. The suspended bridge is adventurous and amazing to explore. The park is also a great birding spot with over 300 species of birds, notable for about 27 endemics of the Great Albertine Rift Valley Region.
In conclusion, when planning a trip to Rwanda, it is important to understand how to get to the Nyungwe Forest National Park, the location, and the options for reaching it. Most travelers prefer to drive to their destination.