Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the southwest corner of Rwanda. The park was established in 2004. Nyungwe Forest is an untouched rain forest and was rated the highest priority for forest conservation in Africa. The park has over 310 different bird species, 13 primates and over 75 different mammals, including butterflies and orchids. If you want to experience a rain forest then this is certainly a place to visit.

The main road through the park was upgraded in 2015 and is a good tar road, but your speed is limited by the twists and turns of this everlasting mountain pass. There is also a new facility, the Uwinka Overlook, that houses NP reception, an Interpretive Centre, canteen, craft shop and toilets.

Nyungwe National Park is a popular hiking destination. They offer short hikes from Uwinka Overlook (like the Canopy Walk) as well as day hikes. Travellers who just want to transit the park don’t have to pay park entry fees. The park is best explored on foot and it is really worth your while to come and spend a few nights in or around the park and do guided hikes. There are also longer, multi-day hikes on offer. Another popular activity is to go chimpanzee tracking which can be a very rewarding experience. It is advised to book chimpanzee tracking in advance. Accommodation in the area tends to be expensive for what you get and if you are at all geared for camping we would recommend camping at the Uwinka Visitor Center.

The campsite is set inside the forest and you camp on top of a covered platform which is a great idea for this high rainfall area with very little flat surfaces. You can also rent a tent from the trail center and make use of the restaurant. Camping in your vehicle is also possible in the parking area.

SHOPS & SERVICES:
There is a craft shop and canteen.

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Rwanda