3-Day Nyungwe Forest Chimpanzee Safari – Trekking & Canopy Walk Rwanda

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

3-Day Nyungwe Forest Chimpanzee Safari – Trekking & Canopy Walk Rwanda

Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, a primordial wilderness of mist-shrouded canopy, rushing mountain streams, and remarkable biodiversity. Home to approximately 400 chimpanzees and 13 primate species, Nyungwe offers some of the best primate tracking experiences on the continent. This 3-Day Nyungwe Forest Chimpanzee Safari takes you into this ancient ecosystem, where you’ll track chimpanzees through dense forest trails and walk among the treetops on the famous canopy walkway suspended 50 meters above the forest floor. The forest is also home to over 275 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

This 3-Day Nyungwe Forest Chimpanzee Safari includes round-trip transport from Kigali, 2 nights’ accommodation at a comfortable lodge near the forest, all meals, chimpanzee trekking with expert rangers, a guided canopy walk, and a cultural stop at the King’s Palace Museum. You’ll travel in a private 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional guide. All park fees, chimpanzee permits, and canopy walk fees are included.

Highlights

Day 1: Kigali – Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park – Canopy Walk
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
Day 3: Nyungwe – Return to Kigali – Departure

Day 01 :

Kigali – Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park – Canopy Walk

Your Nyungwe chimpanzee safari begins with a pickup from your hotel in Kigali or Kigali International Airport. Your driver-guide greets you, and you embark on a scenic 5-6 hour drive through Rwanda's breathtaking countryside, passing through the rolling hills and lush landscapes that give Rwanda its nickname, "Land of a Thousand Hills." En route, stop at the King's Palace Museum in Nyanza to discover Rwanda's traditional monarchy, royal traditions, and the famous royal Inyambo cows known for their impressive long horns and cultural importance. After lunch, continue to Nyungwe Forest National Park. In the afternoon, prepare for the Nyungwe Canopy Walk experience. Suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, the 200-meter-long bridge offers breathtaking aerial views of the forest canopy and the chance to spot monkeys, birds, and butterflies from a completely new perspective. After the canopy walk, check into your lodge for dinner and overnight. Overnight at your Nyungwe lodge. Meals: Lunch & Dinner.

Day 02 :

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Rise early for breakfast, as chimpanzees are most active during the cool morning hours. Transfer to the park headquarters for registration and a briefing from expert park rangers. The briefing covers essential trekking guidelines, including maintaining a respectful distance from the chimpanzees and moving quietly through the forest. Accompanied by armed rangers and specialist chimpanzee trackers, venture into the ancient rainforest in search of chimpanzees. The trek may last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the chimps' location. Once located, you'll spend one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat—watch them feed, groom, play, and communicate in the wild. Return to the lodge for lunch and rest. In the afternoon, you have the option to enjoy a guided nature walk, visit the Kamiranzovu Waterfall, or explore the tea plantations near the forest. Overnight at your Nyungwe lodge. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 03 :

Nyungwe – Return to Kigali – Departure

After breakfast, check out and enjoy a scenic drive back to Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have the option to visit the Kimironko Market for some souvenir shopping or explore Kigali's cultural sites. Arrive in Kigali and transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. As you leave, you'll carry with you the unforgettable memories of Nyungwe's chimpanzees, the canopy walk, and the ancient rainforest. Meal Plan: Breakfast.