Wildlife in Gishwati Mukura National Park

Wildlife in Gishwati Mukura National Park

Gishwati Mukura National Park is one of Rwanda’s lesser-known yet truly captivating wilderness areas. Officially established in 2015, this park became the country’s fourth national park and is made up of two distinct montane rainforest zones: Gishwati and Mukura. Together, they cover 34 square kilometers, including a buffer zone that supports both conservation and community activity.

Perched on a scenic ridge that divides the Congo and Nile river basins, the park lies within the richly biodiverse Albertine Rift region in western Rwanda. Gishwati Mukura is a sanctuary of native hardwoods, towering bamboo groves, and more than 60 tree species that provide a thriving ecosystem for both wildlife and people.

A Unique Home for Primates

One of the park’s most remarkable features is its population of primates. A habituated group of around 20 chimpanzees shares the forest with golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and blue monkeys—making the park a must-visit for primate lovers. Guided treks allow visitors to track these elusive and fascinating creatures through lush forest trails.

A Birdwatcher’s Paradise in Rwanda

Bird lovers will find Gishwati Mukura an outstanding destination. The Gishwati forest alone is home to 232 bird species, while Mukura supports at least 163. This includes a number of Albertine Rift endemics and rare forest specialists that are difficult to spot elsewhere. Whether you’re a seasoned ornithologist or a casual enthusiast, this park offers some of the most rewarding birdwatching experiences in Rwanda.

A Park Reborn: Restoration and Ecotourism

Once severely degraded due to resettlement, illegal mining, and overgrazing, Gishwati Forest has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. A large-scale restoration effort is currently underway, aimed at reforesting the area, improving soil health, stabilizing hillsides, and restoring the flow of vital streams.

Although tourism activities were initially delayed after the park’s formal establishment, they are now expanding steadily. Visitors can enjoy:

• Guided chimpanzee and monkey tracking experiences

• Scenic birdwatching excursions

• Nature hikes through diverse terrain

• Visits to hidden waterfalls deep within the forest

These eco-friendly activities are designed not only to delight visitors but also to ensure long-term conservation.

Community Involvement and Cultural Encounters

Gishwati Mukura National Park is more than just a conservation story—it’s also a model of sustainable development. The park works closely with surrounding communities to promote environmental awareness and create alternative livelihoods. Tourists can participate in authentic, community-led activities such as:

• Farm stays and guided walks through local villages

• Traditional dance performances and cultural storytelling

• Handicraft workshops and basket weaving

• Tea plantation tours in the rolling hillsides nearby

• Beekeeping demonstrations and honey tasting

• Interactions with local herbalists who use natural remedies to heal

These immersive experiences offer insight into Rwandan rural life while directly benefiting the people who live alongside the park.

A Bright Future for Gishwati Mukura

The designation of Gishwati Mukura as a national park was a critical step in reversing decades of environmental damage. Today, this forest is not just surviving—it’s coming back to life. Conservation and tourism are being used hand-in-hand to support both the ecosystem and the livelihoods of those who depend on it.

As Trek Africa Expeditions continues to support responsible tourism in Rwanda, we invite you to explore this rebounding rainforest and contribute to its story of hope and resilience. Whether you’re seeking chimpanzee encounters, rare birds, or meaningful cultural interactions, Gishwati Mukura is a place where conservation and travel come together beautifully.

To plan a customized visit to Gishwati Mukura or include it in a larger Rwanda itinerary, explore our Rwanda primate safaris and get in touch with our expert team for personalized guidance.