Best Areas for Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Best Areas for Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest: Your Ultimate Guide

If you’re planning to trek with chimpanzees in Rwanda and are curious about the best areas to do so in Nyungwe Forest, we’ve got you covered. Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s top destinations for chimpanzee trekking, offering a chance to observe these fascinating primates in their natural environment. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your chimpanzee trekking adventure in this stunning rainforest.

Where to Go for Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

The Cyamudongo area is the most recommended location for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest. It is a key part of the park known for its diverse wildlife, including a significant chimpanzee population. The trekking experience typically begins from the Uwinka Visitors’ Center, the primary entry point to Nyungwe. Here, experienced local guides will lead you through the dense forest, helping you locate and observe the chimpanzees while sharing insightful information about their behavior and habitat.

Be sure to plan ahead, as permits for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe are limited. It’s essential to secure your permit in advance, as the number of available permits is restricted daily. The trek itself can be physically challenging due to the steep and rugged terrain, so make sure you’re prepared for a rewarding but demanding journey.

About Nyungwe Forest National Park

Located in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest is a biodiverse haven that shares a border with Burundi to the south and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. The park, which spans approximately 970 km², is home to some of the best-preserved montane rainforest in Central Africa. It boasts a rich variety of wildlife, including over 1,050 plant species, 85 mammal species, and more than 300 bird species.

Established in 2004, Nyungwe is a paradise for nature lovers, with lush rainforests, bamboo groves, and wetland areas. In recent years, tourism activities in the park have been managed by the Rwanda Development Board, which ensures that visitors can enjoy a responsible and sustainable experience.

What to Expect During Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe provides an incredible opportunity to witness these highly intelligent primates in their natural habitat. The trekking groups, which consist of no more than eight people, depart early in the morning for a thrilling forest expedition. Guides lead trekkers through dense foliage and steep terrain to track the chimpanzees, who are habituated to human presence.

Once you’ve located a group of chimps, you’ll have up to an hour to observe their social behaviors. Watch as they play, feed, communicate with loud screams, and move through the treetops. Their human-like features, including their 98.7% shared DNA with humans, make them especially captivating to observe.

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe offers not just the opportunity to observe chimps but also to explore Rwanda’s oldest rainforest. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

How to Book Your Chimpanzee Trekking Permit in Nyungwe

There are only 64 chimpanzee trekking permits available each day, and they sell out quickly. The cost of a permit is USD 90 per person, which is significantly more affordable than the gorilla trekking permit (USD 1,500). The permit fee covers park entry, a ranger guide, and the necessary logistics for your trek.

To secure your permit, you will need to book through the Rwanda Development Board. It’s advisable to book well in advance, as availability can be limited, especially during peak seasons. You will be required to show your permit at the park headquarters before embarking on the trek.

Other Activities to Enjoy in Nyungwe Forest

While chimpanzee trekking is undoubtedly one of the highlights of Nyungwe Forest, the park offers plenty of other thrilling activities for nature enthusiasts.

Birding in Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to 322 bird species, including some rare and endemic species. Notable birds include the Red-collared Babbler, Rwanda’s only endemic bird species, as well as the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, and more. Birding tours with expert guides are available for USD 50 per day, with discounts for additional days.

Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

One of the park’s most thrilling experiences is the canopy walk, which takes visitors 50 meters above the forest floor along a 200-meter-long suspended bridge. The canopy walk offers stunning views of the forest’s rich biodiversity and is a must-do activity for visitors. The walk costs USD 60 per person, and the hike to the canopy starts from the Uwinka Reception Center.

Hiking in Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe offers several hiking trails that let you immerse yourself in the park’s diverse flora and fauna. These trails range from short hikes to longer expeditions, allowing you to spot primates, birds, and unique plant species along the way. Hiking trails vary in price, ranging from USD 40 to USD 100, depending on the trail you choose.

Colobus Monkey Tracking

Nyungwe is also famous for its primates, including the Rwenzori Colobus Monkey, which is endemic to the forest. Colobus monkey trekking is available throughout the year, and groups can often spot large troops of these monkeys during their trek. The cost for a colobus monkey trek is USD 60 per person.

Cost of Accommodation in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets, ensuring every visitor can find a suitable place to stay. Whether you’re looking for luxury or more affordable options, you’ll be able to enjoy the park’s breathtaking beauty and wildlife.

For those seeking a high-end experience, the One & Only Nyungwe House is a luxury option with prices ranging from USD 750 to USD 2,000 per person per night. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, the Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel offers comfortable accommodations at USD 300 per night. The Nyungwe Forest Lodge and Gisakura Guest House are great mid-range options, with prices starting at USD 200 per night.

We recommend staying at least two nights to fully experience the park and its activities, allowing ample time for chimpanzee trekking and other adventures.

Transportation Costs for Your Chimpanzee Trekking Safari

When planning your trip to Nyungwe Forest for chimpanzee trekking, you have a couple of transportation options.

By Air

You can take a flight from Kigali to Kamembe International Airstrip, which is close to Nyungwe Forest. Flights are available with RwandAir, and tickets typically cost around USD 300 per person. There are at least nine flights per week from Kigali to Kamembe, making air travel a convenient option.

By Road

If you prefer to drive, Nyungwe is about 5 to 6 hours from Kigali. Our safaris depart at 8:00 AM, with stops along the way for scenic views and photo opportunities. The cost of road transport includes:

• Vehicle hire: ranging from USD 80 to USD 250 per day, depending on the vehicle type.

• Driver guide allowance: approximately USD 50 per day.

• Fuel for the round trip: usually around USD 250.

These costs are for a round trip, and the total price depends on how long you plan to stay and explore Nyungwe.

Why Book Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Through Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions is a local, trusted tour operator based in Entebbe, Uganda, specializing in unforgettable, sustainable safari experiences across East Africa. We are proud members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) and registered with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB).

We have built strong relationships with the Rwanda Development Board, allowing us to easily handle chimpanzee permit bookings and provide seamless services for your trek. Our service fees are competitive, and our exceptional customer reviews on TripAdvisor reflect our commitment to delivering top-quality service.

When planning your next adventure to East Africa—whether in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, or Burundi—contact Trek Africa Expeditions for a hassle-free experience. We’re here to help you book your chimpanzee trekking permits and ensure you have an unforgettable time in Nyungwe Forest.