Luxury Safari in Nyungwe Forest
Luxury safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is one of Africa’s most pristine and biologically rich rainforests, located in the southwestern region of Rwanda. Established as a national park in 2004, it covers an area of approximately 1,019 square kilometers and is among the most visited parks in the country.
The park boasts a diverse ecosystem that includes forests, wetlands, woodlands, rivers, and waterfalls, which provide essential habitats for its residents. This ancient rainforest is a haven for biodiversity, home to over 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, Mona monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Additionally, it hosts around 300 bird species, 29 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift, such as the regal sunbird, great blue turaco, red-collared babbler, handsome francolin, Albertine owlet, and stranger weaver. The park is also home to over 1,000 tree species, numerous butterfly species, and 85 animal species.
For those seeking an unforgettable luxury safari experience, Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a variety of activities, including canopy walks, chimpanzee trekking, bird watching, hiking, and nature walks. The park’s blend of rich biodiversity and high-end lodges makes it a premier destination for eco-tourism in Rwanda and a top choice for luxury safaris.
Things to do during a luxury safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Canopy Walk.
This is a unique activity in East Africa that attracts many tourists to experience the forest from above. The suspended walkway is 160 meters long and 70 meters above the ground. The guided walk begins at the Uwinka reception center, where participants receive a briefing about the rules and regulations of the canopy walk. You will be assigned a knowledgeable park guide who will provide insightful information about the wildlife you may encounter.
Participants will join the Igishigishigi trail, which leads to the canopy walk. While on the canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park, you will have a breathtaking viewpoint to observe the beautiful scenery of the forest and its neighbors, such as Lake Kivu, from above. You may spot various bird species that inhabit the treetops, chimpanzees playing among the branches, colobus monkeys, butterflies, and more. This experience is truly unique and cannot be found anywhere else in East Africa.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Chimpanzee trekking is one of the top activities to experience during a luxury safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park. The trek begins in the morning with a briefing about the do’s and don’ts of chimp trekking. This guided excursion is led by a knowledgeable park ranger who is well-versed in the behaviors of the chimpanzees and the various inhabitants of the park.
Trekking involves hiking, so we advise participants to assess their fitness levels before joining this activity. As you search for these playful chimps, you will encounter a variety of bird species, plants, and butterflies that inhabit the park. Once you locate the chimpanzees, you’ll spend one hour with them, learning more about their behaviors. You will have the chance to observe how chimps feed, play, and care for one another, making for an unforgettable experience.
Bird Watching-Luxury safari in Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 300 bird species, including more than 29 Rift Valley endemics. Guided by an experienced birder who is well-versed in the park’s avian diversity, visitors will gain valuable insights about the various species observed during their birding safari. In Nyungwe, you can expect to encounter a variety of fascinating birds, such as the Blue-headed Sunbird, Collared Apalis, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, Stripe-breasted Tit, Handsome Francolin, Neumann’s Warbler, Red-collared Mountain Babbler, Red-throated Alethe, Mountain Masked Apalis, Dusky Crimsonwing, Dwarf Honeyguide, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Archer’s Robin Chat, and many others that inhabit this remarkable park.
Nature Walk.
One of the best ways to experience Nyungwe Forest National Park is by exploring it on foot, making it a top activity during your luxury safari. This guided nature walk is led by an armed guide who ensures your safety and provides valuable insights about the wildlife you encounter along the way. As you stroll through the park, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, reptiles, and butterflies, as well as breathtaking waterfalls and rivers that will rejuvenate your soul with their stunning views. If you are a nature enthusiast, a nature walk is a must-do activity on your luxury safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
How to Access Nyungwe Forest National Park.
The park can be accessed by either road or air transport, depending on your preferred level of comfort during your safari. If you choose road transport, you will travel in a 4×4 tourist Land Cruiser. The journey takes about 5 to 6 hours from Kigali, depending on any stopovers you may make along the way. For air transport, you have two options: domestic flights from Kigali International Airport to Kamembe Airport, where you will be picked up and taken to your lodge, or you can opt for a charter helicopter that will transfer you directly to your hotel in approximately 45 minutes.
Luxury safari Accommodations in Nyungwe Forest.
Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a perfect blend of wilderness and elegance, featuring a variety of accommodations ranging from ultra-luxurious hotels to charming eco-lodges, all with breathtaking views of the tropical rainforest. Imagine waking up to stunning vistas of the forest, listening to the whispers of nature, and enjoying the melodious songs of the birds. Whether you choose to stay at the One and Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Cloe Lake Kivu Hotel, Nyungwe Nziza Eco Lodge, Chimpanzee Lodge, Ken Barham Guesthouse, Uwinka Campsite, La Petite Colline House, or Emeraude Kivu Resort, each option promises a unique and memorable experience in this incredible natural paradise.
