Family Safaris
8-Day Uganda Gorillas & Wildlife family tour
Our 8 day Uganda family safari packs the very best of the Pearl of Africa into one easy, well-paced trip.
3 Days Nyungwe Chimpanzee Trekking Rwanda
This 3 day tour is a simple, rewarding way to enjoy chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda. You travel from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a vast montane rainforest in the south of the country. There, you track wild chimpanzees with expert guides. Then, you walk high above the trees on the canopy walk.
Trip overview
Nyungwe is one of the richest forests in Africa. In fact, it is home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, large groups of Rwenzori colobus, vervet monkeys and red-tailed monkeys. Over 300 bird species live here too, along with more than 200 kinds of trees and flowering plants, orchids and butterflies. Many of the birds are Albertine Rift endemics, so birders will love it as well.
The park has two main areas for chimp tracking: the Uwinka trail and the Cyamudongo section. Trekking takes place on steep, often slippery hillsides. Also, sightings are never certain, because chimps move fast through the forest. Still, that wild feeling is part of the thrill.
Tour highlights
- Track wild chimpanzees with Nyungwe’s ranger guides.
- Walk among the treetops on the canopy walk.
- Look for colobus monkeys and Albertine Rift birds.
- Visit the ethnographic museum in Huye on the way.
- Enjoy views of Rwanda’s famous “thousand hills”.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Pick-up and drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After a hearty breakfast, we pick you up from the airport or your hotel. Then, you set off on a six-hour drive to Nyungwe Forest. The route passes through Nyanza district and later Huye. In Huye, you stop to visit the ethnographic museum, which is also the national museum of Rwanda. Here, guides and old books bring Rwanda’s history and rich culture to life.
After the museum, you have lunch. Next, you continue along a winding road with great views of the famous “thousand hills”. Finally, you reach your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
Nyungwe Forest Lodge – Luxury
Nyungwe Top View Hill Lodge – Midrange
Gisakura Guest House – Budget
Day 2: Chimpanzee trekking and canopy walk
After a very early breakfast, you head to Uwinka for a briefing. There, the guides explain what chimpanzee trekking involves and what you need to know. They also tell you which trail you will follow. Nyungwe has two main trail heads for chimp tracking: the Uwinka trail and the Cyamudongo section. If your group tracks at Cyamudongo, your driver-guide takes you to the starting point.
Along the trail, keep your eyes open. This lush forest also hosts colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys and many colourful birds. Once the trek ends, you have lunch. In the afternoon, you enjoy the canopy walk and see the forest from above. Afterwards, you return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
Nyungwe Forest Lodge – Luxury
Nyungwe Top View Hill Lodge – Midrange
Gisakura Guest House – Budget
Day 3: Transfer to Kigali
After breakfast, take a few last photos of this beautiful forest. Then, you begin the drive back to Kigali. Finally, we drop you at Kigali International Airport or at your hotel, and your 3 day chimpanzee trekking safari comes to an end.
Who this chimp trekking tour suits
This short trip suits nature lovers, keen hikers and birders. It also works well if you have already seen gorillas and want to add another great ape. However, you need a fair level of fitness, because the trails are steep and can be muddy. So, good hiking boots and a walking stick make a big difference.
Best time for chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda
You can visit Nyungwe all year round. Even so, the drier months of June to September and December to February are usually the easiest for hiking. In the rainy months, the trails get slippery. On the other hand, the forest looks its greenest and there are fewer visitors.
Tips for your Nyungwe trip
- Wear long sleeves and trousers. They protect you from nettles and insects.
- Bring a rain jacket. Nyungwe is a rainforest, so showers can come at any time.
- Pack light layers. Mornings in the hills can feel cool.
- Carry water and snacks. Treks can take longer than you expect.
- Plan your permits early. Permit prices are set by the park authorities and change from time to time, so we will confirm the current rate when you enquire.
For more ideas on what to see across the country, visit the official Visit Rwanda website.
Extend or combine your trip
Nyungwe pairs well with other Rwandan parks. For example, you can add mountain gorillas on our 3 day Rwanda gorilla safari in Volcanoes. Alternatively, you can see big game on the Akagera wildlife safari. For a longer holiday, look at our 8 day Rwanda classic safari, or browse more primate tours.
Every Roots Tours & Travel trip is tailor-made. Just tell us your dates, group size and interests. Then, we will send you a free itinerary. Get in touch today and start planning your chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda.
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Not sure where to start? Chat with our safari specialists. We’ll help you find the perfect adventure.Every great journey begins with a conversation. Let’s plan yours.
Contact Us
- info@tourwithroots.com
- +256 776 83 1722
- +256 200 905 219
- Universal Apartments, Spine Road - Naalya - Kampala(U)
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