Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe. The adventure involves exploration, walking through the jungles of thick tropical rainforests in search of untamed chimpanzees. The activity usually lasts for about two to five hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzee families, their movement, and their feeding patterns.

Travellers on the chimpanzee trekking adventures follow the trails of the chimpanzee families to find the exciting primates.

Chimpanzees are a species of great ape that are native to the jungles, forests, and woodland savannahs of tropical Africa. Chimpanzees are classified into up to four confirmed species. The evidence from the fossil DNA sequences indicates that chimpanzees are close relatives to human beings, sharing up to 94.8% of their DNA.

This is evident in the resemblance of the fingers, toes, palms, and faces to the human race. Chimpanzees are highly social animals living in groups of about 15 to 150 individuals, although they at times travel in smaller groupings as they feed in the forests.

Nyungwe National Park.

Perched in the southwest of Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a thick primeval forest harboring several primate species, including the chimpanzees. Besides, the National Park occupies an area of about 1019 square kilometres, which makes it a comfortable habitat for chimpanzees as it presents enough play area and hunting grounds for them.

The park’s rich biodiversity further makes it a favourable habitat for the chimpanzees since they can never starve as they feed on the various flora species, especially the fruits and leaves.

Nyungwe stands out as one of the oldest rainforests on the African continent and has been a renowned habitat for primates for centuries.

 The experience of chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park.

The chimpanzee trekking activity in Nyungwe National Park allows visitors to traverse one of the oldest tropical rainforests on the African tract of land. Travelers on the trek have the opportunity to observe a variety of primate species, attractive birds, and several species of flora, which help add to the overall experiences obtained.

The sights of the towering canopies of the trees form a beautiful scenery that is good for photography and sightseeing, which further makes Nyungwe a perfect place to relax and appreciate nature. On the other hand, Travelers on this trek have the uncommon chance to learn several interesting things about chimpanzees as told by professional tourist guides who have an immense passion for nature and have dedicated their lives to educating human beings about chimpanzees and the importance of coexistence with them.

Guides brief tourists before they enter the jungle to ensure they know how to behave and what to avoid for a smooth, sustainable trekking experience. Throughout the trek, travellers are accompanied by Rangers to ensure that they are safe.

The tourists move through thick rainforests, Savannah Woodlands, and shrubs in the bid to meet the chimpanzees. Once visitors encounter a chimpanzee family, they may spend up to 60 minutes watching the animals enjoy their lives.

Cost of chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park.

The Nyungwe chimpanzee trekking permit is essential for chimpanzee trekking on a Nyungwe Forest Safari. It grants access to the forest and lets you observe primates in their natural habitat. The permit cost varies by season and trek type. The cost of chimpanzee trekking permits in Nyungwe National Park is set at $250 for foreign non-residents, $75 for foreign residents, and $25 for East African citizens. This cost is per trek and person. Chimpanzee permits can be acquired from the Rwanda Development Board or a reputable Local Tour Operator.

Where to purchase the Chimpanzee permit

The chimpanzee trek permit can be purchased directly through the Rwanda Development Board or a local tour operator. Contact your tour operator via email or phone with the trek dates to check for the availability of the permits on the provided dates.

Purchasing through a tour operator like Anthill Safaris is the best option because they not only purchase the permits but also help plan for the entire safari by booking different services like accommodation, transport, and other safari activities.

Activities in Nyungwe other than chimpanzee trekking

Although chimpanzee tracking is the most popular activity in Nyungwe forest, visitors can also take part in tracking smaller primates, going on canopy walks and nature walks, bird watching, visiting the tea plantations, and visiting one of the waterfalls. It may now be possible to do the chimpanzee habituation experience in Rwanda.

Spotting other primates

Nyungwe National Park is one of the best places to spot primates in Africa. With 13 species, this can be compared to Kibale National Park in Uganda. However, the most sought-after species after the chimpanzees is the Rwenzori and Angola Colobus. The Angola Colobus Monkey is now extinct in Angola itself.

Canopy Walks

The best way to explore this thick and ancient forest is by using the Canopy Walkway. It is the only one in East Africa. As I write this article, a strong 60-meter-high steel bridge spans the treetops, giving tourists an aerial view of the birds, primates, and endless forest. There are viewing points/decks along the walkway, which offer opportunities to rest as they marvel at the amazing scenery and wildlife. The activity starts from the visitor center in Uwinka and takes about 2 hours. A tour through the Canopy walkway costs 60 US Dollars per person.

Bird watching

Nyungwe National Park is one of the best places for birdwatching in Rwanda. Nyungwe Forest is home to over 300 species of birds, of which about 26 are endemic to the Albertine Rift. Beyond the species already mentioned, you can also spot the Apalis Argentea, Archer’s Robin-chat, Dusky Crimson Wing, Grauer’s Warbler, Handsome Francolin, Kungwe Apalis, Large Blue Turaco, Ruwenzori Apalis, Ruwenzori Batis, Ruwenzori Nightjar, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Neumann’s Warbler, and Sunbirds. Bird-watching starts right from your hotel window. You can also spot birds while tracking primates or walking the canopy trail.

Nature Walks and Hikes

There are different trails for forest hikes in Nyungwe National Park. If one is to complete all the trails, they would have walked for about 130 kilometers. However, to complete all the trails, one would need about a week. The main trails are the Bigugu Trail, Ngabwe Trail, Canopy Trail, Kamiranzovu Marsh Trail, Congo Nile Trail, Bigugu Trail, Igishigishigi Trail, Karamba Birding Trail, Irebero Trail, Isumo Waterfall Trail, Imbaraga Trail, Umugote Trail, Muzimu Trail, Rukuzi Trail, and Umuyove Trail. The most popular trails are Bigugu and Igishigishigi.

Visiting one of the waterfalls

The most popular waterfall is the Isumo Waterfall, located close to the luxury Nyungwe House. To reach this waterfall, you will go through the Isumo Waterfall Trail. This trail is not very long but involves passing through slippery and steep areas of the park, after which you descend to a very dense part of the forest before seeing the waterfall. The reward for such a difficult hike is the amazing sounds, cool breezes, and views of the dense forest.

Visiting the Gisakura Tea Plantation

This activity can be done in the evening or after completing your other activities in the park. It is suitable for tea enthusiasts and those who appreciate the beauty of nature.  One can visit the processing plants or go directly to the plantation and learn how tea is grown, harvested, and processed. The area around the estates has amazing scenery of the forest and Mount Biguguonn to the horizon.

Cultural and Community Visit

The best way to start is to visit places like the Kitabi cultural village or the Banda Community Village. You can also attend performances by the Cyamudongo cultural troupe or friends of Nyungwe. All these groups showcase the rich culture of the people of Rwanda through dance, drama, and storytelling. There are always opportunities to buy souvenirs (local crafts and art pieces).

Best time for  Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe.

It is important to note that chimpanzee tracking activities are carried out all year round in Nyungwe National Park. However, the dry seasons are renowned for offering the best experiences to travellers, and since they are characterized by limited interruptions by the weather. In addition, the dry seasons are usually from June to September and from December to early February. The wet seasons also favor chimpanzee trekking because the forest provides plenty of food, the chimps stay in one area, saving you time and effort.

How To Get There

By Road

From Kigali

Nyungwe National Park is located approximately 226 kilometers (about 140 miles) from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. The drive typically takes around 5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

The journey involves traveling southwest through scenic landscapes, including rolling hills and various towns such as Huye and Nyanza.

From Nyungwe to Volcanoes

From Nyungwe National Park to Volcanoes National Park is about 200 kilometers (about 124 miles). The journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours by road.

Take the RN6 road towards Ruhengeri, passing through beautiful landscapes and possibly stopping at attractions like:

Nyanza King’s Palace: A historical landmark showcasing Rwandan culture.

National Museum of Rwanda in Butare: This museum offers insights into Rwandan history and culture.

By Air

Helicopter Flights: For a quicker option, helicopter flights are available from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park. The flight takes about 45 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of the landscape. Akagera Aviation provides these services, with potential landing directly at the park lodges.

Domestic Flights: You can also fly to Kamembe International Airport (about 40 km from Nyungwe). RwandaAir operates multiple flights weekly from Kigali to Kamembe. From the airport, you can arrange for transport to the park.

Accommodation during chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe.Travelers to Nyungwe National Park have several accommodation facilities to choose from. On the other hand, the facilities come in the form of budget, mid-range, luxury, and super-luxury hotels. The Luxury hotels offer very high-quality services that are comparable to any in East Africa. Let’s look at some of them briefly:-

Nyungwe House

This luxury lodge was established in 2010 as the first 5-star hotel. It has quickly become a favorite with visitors who have come for activities in the forest because of its high-quality services and location. However, the lodge provides self-contained luxury rooms, swimming pools, and a gym. You can choose this hotel for its quality services and amazing views of the forest and surrounding tea plantations.

Gisakura Guest House

The Guest House sits two kilometers from the park and close to the Gisakura tea estate, just off the road to Rusizi. The facility is suitable for those who are traveling on a budget. The Guest house is perfect for those who have come to see the chimp, canopy walks, or nature walks in Nyungwe National Park.

Nyungwe Top View Hotel

This hotel was opened in 2011. It is close to Nyungwe Forest and offers mid-range accommodation facilities with self-contained rooms. The rooms face the national park, offering amazing views of the countryside. The buildings are all made of red bricks and locally made furniture.

One & Only Nyungwe House

If you are looking for a luxury stay, then the One & Only House is the place to be. Besides, this is the only luxury facility in the area. It offers 32 well-maintained, comfortable rooms and stands as the top choice for tourists tracking chimpanzees in Nyungwe.

Kitabi Eco-Center

What are the rules for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park?

Do not provoke the chimpanzees because they may charge you when you agitate them. Chimpanzees have mood swings just like humans.

• No feeding the chimpanzees because wild animals must look for their meals. If you wish to eat, do it about 300 meters from the chimpanzee.
• Spitting on vegetation is prohibited because it is food for primates in the forest.
• Dumping wraps or any other waste damages the natural setting of the forest, so no dumping.
• Do not smoke or eat while in front of the chimpanzees. They may be tempted to grab it, yet wild animals must search for their meal.
• Only one hour is allowed to be with the chimpanzees so they can be left free to eat.
• Try not to surround the chimpanzees because this makes them feel ambushed.
• If you wish to sneeze or cough, do it away from the chimpanzees to avoid spreading any infections to them. Volunteer to stay behind if you catch any infectious illness like the flu or COVID-19 just before chimpanzee trekking.
• Never use flash photography when taking photographs during the chimpanzee safari because this may cause them to run into hiding.