Nyungwe National Park, in Rwanda's southwest, is one of Africa's oldest and largest montane rainforests — and the country's primary chimpanzee trekking destination. It sits roughly 5–6 hours by road from Kigali, or a short flight to Kamembe, making it the furthest major park from the capital.
Quick facts
- Location: Southwestern Rwanda, near the Burundi border
- Best known for: Chimpanzee trekking, the canopy walkway, thirteen primate species
- Distance from Kigali: Roughly 5–6 hours by road, or a short domestic flight to Kamembe
- Typical visit length: 2 nights
What sets Nyungwe apart
Nyungwe holds thirteen primate species, more than any other single park in the combined Uganda and Rwanda circuit, including chimpanzees, several colobus species, and L'Hoest's monkeys. Its canopy walkway — a suspended steel bridge roughly 70 metres above the forest floor — is the highest of its kind in Africa, and is walkable independently of a primate trek for travellers who want the forest-canopy perspective without the physical demands of tracking.
Because it sits furthest from Kigali of Rwanda's major parks, Nyungwe is usually the last stop on a full-country circuit rather than a standalone destination — paired with Volcanoes National Park for gorillas and, where time allows, Akagera for classic game viewing.
Where to stay
One&Only Nyungwe House, set on a working tea estate at the forest's edge, is the park's signature luxury property.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Nyungwe National Park?
By road, roughly 5–6 hours from Kigali, or by a shorter domestic flight to Kamembe followed by a road transfer.
Is the Nyungwe canopy walkway included in a chimpanzee trek?
They're separate activities and are usually booked as two distinct experiences during the same stay, though both can be done in a single day.
How does Nyungwe compare to Uganda's Kibale Forest for chimpanzee trekking?
Both offer strong chimpanzee trekking; Kibale is generally considered the single best chimpanzee destination in Africa, while Nyungwe's canopy walkway and broader primate count make it a strong complement on a combined itinerary.
Pair Nyungwe with gorilla trekking on our 8 Days Rwanda Grand Safari Collection.