Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

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September 21, 2024
Experiences, Rwanda

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park offers an exhilarating opportunity to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. As you follow trails through the dense forest, you’ll encounter these primates engaging in their daily routines waking, feeding, grooming, and socialising. Trekking provides a window into their world, allowing you to witness how they interact, what plants they consume, and the dynamics of their social hierarchy. For researchers, the trek offers rich insights into chimp behaviour and ecology.

Where to Trek Chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe Forest hosts two habituated chimpanzee groups: one in the Uwinka area and another in the Cyamudongo Forest, a fragmented section of the park. Trekking the Cyamudongo group can be strenuous, especially if the chimps are on the move, requiring trekkers to follow quickly. However, if you catch them resting or feeding, it becomes an ideal moment to observe them up close and learn about their distinct personalities and behaviours.

Fitness is key, as the park’s elevation ranges from 1,600 to 2,950 metres above sea level. For older visitors, a slower-paced trail is available, providing a more relaxed experience.

How to Access Nyungwe for Chimpanzee Trekking

To trek the Uwinka chimpanzee group, visitors must first pick up a guide at Gisakura Reception Center around 4:30 a.m. From there, you drive to the Uwinka Reception Center and begin the trek. The Uwinka group, with over 40 members, can be challenging to track.

The Cyamudongo group, being more accustomed to visitors, is generally easier to find. Treks for this group also start at 4:30 a.m. from the Gisakura Reception Center. As the road to Cyamudongo is rough, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended.

Getting to Nyungwe Forest by Road

Road travel is the most common way to reach Nyungwe, offering an affordable and scenic journey. As you travel through Rwanda’s rolling hills, you can visit historical sites like the Nyanza King’s Palace and the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial. If you’re on a guided tour, the driver can make stops for photos and sightseeing. The drive from Kigali to Nyungwe takes 4 to 6 hours, passing through cities like Huye, located 32 kilometres from the park.

If you prefer public transportation, buses from Nyabugogo Bus Terminal in Kigali travel toward Rusizi, passing by Uwinka within the park. However, public buses don’t allow entry into the park, and travellers will need to disembark at the Uwinka Center and arrange alternative transport to fully access the park for chimpanzee trekking.