The 2 Days Nyungwe Forest National Park Tour is a perfect short escape for travelers seeking an unforgettable primate and nature experience in Rwanda. Nyungwe Forest, located in the southwestern part of the country, is one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests. This tour offers a guided chimpanzee trekking adventure where visitors hike through dense tropical forest to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. It also includes the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walk, a thrilling bridge suspended above the forest that offers breathtaking views of the treetops and the opportunity to spot monkeys and birds.
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Kigali. After a short briefing, you’ll embark on a scenic drive southwest toward Nyungwe Forest National Park. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, rural villages, and vast tea plantations. You may stop for lunch in Huye (formerly Butare) and visit the Ethnographic Museum if time allows. Upon arrival at Nyungwe, you’ll check in at your lodge before heading to the Uwinka Visitor Center for the famous canopy walk. Suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, the canopy walk offers panoramic views of the treetops and a chance to spot monkeys and birds. After the activity, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
On the second day, you’ll start with an early breakfast before heading out for chimpanzee trekking in the forest. With the help of expert guides and trackers, you’ll hike through the thick rainforest in search of a habituated group of chimpanzees. Once located, you’ll spend up to one hour observing their behavior—watching them feed, play, and interact. This up-close experience is both thrilling and educational. After the trek, you’ll return to the lodge for a short rest and checkout. Begin your journey back to Kigali with lunch en route, arriving in the evening. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or the airport, marking the end of your memorable 2-day Nyungwe Forest experience.
The 2 Days Nyungwe Forest National Park Tour is ideal for travelers seeking a short but meaningful escape into one of Africa’s most untouched rainforests. This tour offers the rare opportunity to track wild chimpanzees and walk above the treetops on Africa’s only canopy walkway. It’s perfect for nature lovers, bird watchers, and primate enthusiasts who want to explore Rwanda’s natural beauty without committing to a long itinerary. With well-organized logistics, expert guides, and comfortable accommodations, the tour is stress-free and highly rewarding. The scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills adds to the overall experience, making this tour a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation.
The best time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park is during the dry seasons, from mid-December to February and from June to September. These months offer the most favorable conditions for chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks, as the forest trails are drier and easier to navigate. During the dry season, wildlife viewing is also more enjoyable, with better visibility and a higher chance of encountering chimpanzees and other primates. However, Nyungwe Forest can be visited year-round, and the wet seasons (March to May and October to mid-December) also bring their own charm, with lush vegetation and excellent birdwatching opportunities. It’s important to note that rainfall is possible even in the dry season due to the park’s rainforest climate, so packing light rain gear is recommended. Booking permits and accommodation in advance is advised, especially during the peak travel months of June to September.
The cost of a 2 Days Nyungwe Forest National Park Tour typically ranges between $700 to $1,000 per person for a full package. This includes transport from Kigali, park entry fees, chimpanzee trekking permit, canopy walk, guided activities, accommodation, and meals. The chimpanzee trekking permit alone costs around $90 per person, while the canopy walk experience costs approximately $40. Park entry fees may be around $75 per day for foreign non-residents. If you choose to travel independently, budget accommodation may cost $100–$200 per night, while mid-range lodges may charge up to $300. Transport by private vehicle from Kigali and back can add another $250–$300 to the overall cost. Travelers looking for convenience often prefer packaged tours offered by operators, which include all logistics and expert guides. Booking in advance is recommended to secure permits and preferred lodging, especially during peak seasons.