Nyungwe Forest National Park, in southwestern Rwanda, is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a sanctuary of biodiversity. Spanning more than 1,000 square kilometers, the park shelters a wealth of wildlife, including over 300 bird species, 1,000 plant species, and an impressive 13 primate species. Its ancient montane forests have long been a vital watershed, feeding rivers that flow into both the Nile and the Congo, making it not only ecologically rich but also geographically significant.
For many, the highlight of Nyungwe is the chance to encounter primates in their natural habitat. Chimpanzee trekking offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of our closest relatives, while large troops of colobus monkeys leap through the canopy in dramatic displays. Birdwatchers are equally rewarded, as the park is home to rare and endemic species such as the Rwenzori turaco and Grauer’s swamp warbler.
Beyond its wildlife, Nyungwe offers immersive experiences in a setting that feels almost primeval. The Canopy Walkway, a suspended bridge stretching 160 meters across treetops, provides sweeping views of the forest from above, while trails wind through waterfalls, bamboo groves, and misty ridges. The atmosphere is both serene and awe-inspiring, a reminder of the rainforest’s role as one of Africa’s great natural treasures.