Nyungwe National Park is an untouched natural rainforest that is filled with exciting biodiversity; one of the worlds most beautiful and pristine mountain rainforest with a high, dense canopy and its believed to be one of Africa’s oldest forests, staying green even through the Ice Age, which explains its diversity. Nyungwe national park covers an area of about 1000 square kilometers of rain forest, bamboo, grassland, swamps and bogs. The forest is like a scene fairy tale with tall old mahoganies, ebonies and giant tree ferns tower. Brightly colored birds flit around, butterflies are everywhere and walking quietly you may encounter large forest residents.
History
Nyungwe was turned into a national park in 2004 to build on Rwanda tourism besides the Nation’s existing mountain gorillas in Volcanoes national park making it worth of its status because of its spectacular biodiversity. Inside the park, the Uwinka Visitors center gives more information about the historical background including its fauna and flora and nearby local culture.
Attractions
Nyungwe national park is a home to habituated chimpanzees and 12 other primates’ species including a 400-strong troop of habituated Ruwenzori Black & White Colobus, it’s also a birder’s paradise with over 300 species, including 16 endemics, and is home to 75 different species of mammal.
This majestic rainforest is filled with nature and wildlife experiences for you to emerge yourself in. Hiking or even biking the beautiful terrain, tracking the famous chimpanzees, experiencing the canopy walk, witnessing beautiful birds, relaxing by waterfalls are just a glimpse of activities that Nyungwe offers. Cultural activities are also available around the forest.
Sounds and views collaborate to create a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience. Exploring through the forest, travelers will witness the lush green mountains and cooling mist in a landscape that won’t be soon forgotten.
Location
Nyungwe national park is located in the South west corner of Rwanda bordering Burundi in the South and Democratic Republic of Congo in the west, near Lake Kivu. It is a 4-5 hours drive from Kigali city/Airport on great winding roads.