Ready for an unforgettable journey into one of Africa’s most enchanting rainforests? Nyungwe Forest National Park invites you to meet its most intelligent residents—Rwanda’s wild chimpanzees. From misty morning treks to thrilling primate sightings, this experience blends biodiversity, adventure, and conservation into one remarkable safari. Discover 10 incredible facts that will inspire your next escape into Rwanda’s wilderness.

Best known for its gorillas, the Central/East African Country of Rwanda also offers the opportunity for chimpanzee trekking tours in the most extensive protected montane forest in Africa. That forest’s name is Nyungwe Forest.

The forest is protected in a magnificently scenic and biodiverse 1,015 km2 park set on the Rift Valley escarpment above  Lake Kivu.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to around 500 wild chimpanzees that roam its vast rainforest jungle. But the main chimpanzee trekking site is Cyamudongo, an isolated forest annex whose community of 30 chimpanzees is well habituated to visitors.

These human-like apes share nearly 99% of our DNA. And trekking through the jungle to encounter them is one of many magical experiences on offer in this underrated Rwanda safari park. In fact, we include it in our 20 best things to do in Rwanda.

Nyungwe National Park is a Natural World Heritage Site

On September 19, 2023 Rwanda’s Nyungwe has been inscribed on the list of the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Nyungwe also becomes the first site in Rwanda to be featured on the UNESCO World Heritage list which are places of global importance.

That is to mean, sites that should be recognized and protected because they possess a biodiversity (in the case of the Nyungwe) or something and that is not found in many places in the world and should therefore be protected for the future generations to find.

Location of Nyungwe Forest In Rwanda

Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the southwest corner of Rwanda.

The back is situated about a 4-5 hour drive from, the capital city Kigali on good if sometimes winding roads.

There are some attraction along the way that include Nyanza King’s Palace and the Ethnographic Museum should you wish to break the trip.

FAQs about Chimp Trekking in Nyungwe

1. How does chimp trekking in Nyungwe compare to other places?

The chimpanzees at Nyungwe Forest are now well habituated, so they are used to seeing people and not very shy.

The actual chimpanzee trekking adventure in Nyungwe Forest of Rwanda is relatively similar to what it is in other places in Africa that offer chimp treks.

However, one main difference is that Nyungwe Forest’s the main chimpanzee trekking site (Cyamudongo) is over a 2-hour drive from the park reception center and from most safari accommodation, so a very early start (usually around 5:30 AM) is required.

Another difference is that the small size and steep slopes of Cyamudongo Forest in Nyungwe National Park mean you typically have to walk shorter distances than at other places, but the terrain is tougher.

2. What fitness level is required For Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest?

You need a relatively high level of fitness and agility to track chimps of Nyungwe Forest. Indeed, of all the major chimp trekking destinations in East Africa, Nyungwe is probably the most physically demanding, due to the steep slopes and slippery underfoot conditions.

That said, the distances involved are not great, and most people who are sufficiently fit to participate in Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park will be fine in Nyungwe Forest.

3. Are chimpanzee sightings in Nyungwe Forest National Park guaranteed?

The short answer is no. Chimpanzee sightings cannot be guaranteed on a Nyungwe Forest chimp trekking tour.

But this is true of almost all chimpanzee trekking locations, simply because chimps (unlike mountain gorillas) tend to be very active.

Even in Kibale Forest National Park of Uganda which the best place in the world to see wild chimpanzees, the chances of encountering them are around 95%.

Chimpanzees travel long distances at a pace no person could hope to match in the tangled forest jungle undergrowth.

4. Is chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest safe?

Nyungwe Forest National Park is a very safe place to track wild chimpanzees.

While chimps can be quite imposing in appearance, and they are far stronger than human, Nyungwe Forest’s habituated chimpanzee community is not bothered by human guests and shows no aggression towards them.

As a precaution, children under below the age of 12 are not allowed to track chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park.

But adults have little to worry about, provided they follow the guidelines and instructions given by their tracking guide.

The most significant risk in Nyungwe Forest National Park is losing your footing on the tangled slopes. This will be greatly reduced if you use one of the walking sticks that are offered to all trekkers and put on strong hiking shoes or boots.

5. Can I combine chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest With gorilla trekking?

You most certainly can!

In fact, for most travellers who go for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, the excursion is made as an add-on to a safari whose main focus is mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

While planning your Rwanda safari itinerary, please not that although Rwanda is a small country, these two primate parks lie at opposite ends of it.

It is worth breaking up the long drive with a night or two on the shores of the gorgeous Lake Kivu or in the Kigali city, the capital of Rwanda.

Also, when you are in planning mode for Rwanda safari holiday, you could also consider adding Akagera National Park, a very scenic savannah reserve that is home all the African Big Five animal (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino) and numerous antelopes.

6. What other animals am I likely to see in Nyungwe National Park?

While chimpanzee viewing is the focus of many Nyungwe Forest safaris, other hikes offer the opportunity to see many of the other 86 mammals and over 310 bird species recorded in the park.

Monkeys

The owl-faced monkey was only recently confirmed to occur in Nyungwe National Park, and this is the only population of this rare monkey species to occur outside of DR Congo.

The forest is also home to the largest mega-troop of Rwenzori pied colobus in Africa, numbering over 400 of these striking black and white monkeys. This well-habituated mega-troop also attracts the company of a myriad of additional primate species such as:

• Vervet monkeys
• Blue monkeys
• Olive baboons
• Grey-cheeked mangabeys
• L’Hoest’s monkeys
• Silver monkeys
• Dent’s Mona monkeys
• Red-tailed monkeys

Chimpanzees of Nyungwe Forest National Park are also drawn to the colobus monkeys, although for completely different reasons: food. They hunt the smaller monkey species and an opportunity to witness a chimpanzee raid is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as the forest explodes into shrieks of terror and the excited howls of the hunting chimps.

Birds

The exceptional birdlife of Nyungwe Forest National Park includes 30 Albertine Rift endemics, which are restricted to the western branch of the Rift Valley. These include:

• Albertine owlet
• Red-collared mountain babbler
• Rockefeller’s sunbird
• Mountain masked apalis
• Ruwenzori turaco
• Dwarf honeyguide
• Handsome francolin
• Neumann’s short-tailed warbler

Other mammals

While the birds and primates tend to take centre stage in Nyungwe, there are other mammal species wandering the forest paths, climbing the ancient trees, or slinking through the undergrowth. Camera trap studies have revealed that Nyungwe is home to an assortment of creatures, from Congo clawless otters, lithe servals to golden cats and Lord Derby’s scaly-tailed squirrels

• Congo clawless otters
• Lithe servals
• Golden cats
• Lord Derby’s scaly-tailed squirrels

Plant life

Nyungwe Forest National Park’s extraordinary biodiversity also extends to the oft-overlooked plant life. There are over 1,000 different recorded plant species, of which 250 are endemic to the Albertine Rift. About 140 of these plant species are orchids, which add their splashes of colour to the blanket of green and brown around them.

• 1000 plant species
• 140 species of orchids

Reptiles and Amphibians

You can also look out for the formidable Rwenzori three-horned chameleons. Nyungwe Forest National Park is also known to be home to the Bururi long-fingered frog (Cardioglossa cyaneospila), a species once thought extinct. Last seen in 1949, the 3.2-centimeter-long amphibian was found during a December 2011 biodiversity survey in the small central African country of Burundi.

7. What Other Hikes And Activities Are Available In Nyungwe Forest?

Nyungwe Forest National Park is a true hiker’s paradise. The forest is crisscrossed by a 130km network of well-maintained day trails that offer great opportunities for bird watching, monkey viewing and enjoying the magical forest interior.

The shortest and most popular is the Igishigishigi Trail, which features a 160m-/525ft-long canopy walkway suspended between facing slopes above a fern-lined stream.

Other trails lead to Kamiranzovu Swamp, Ndamabarare Waterfall and Mt Bigugu, where you can see the most remote source of the world’s longest river, the Nile River.

8. Other Attractions around Nyungwe National Park

Tea is among the largest exports of Rwanda and several tea plantations – including Gisakura, Kitabi and Gisoyu – are found along the fringes of Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Not only do these plantations provide vital employment for local communities and educational experiences for tourists, but they also serve as buffer zones around the park.

There are also several beekeeping cooperatives active near the park offices. While beekeeping is a traditional practice in the area, the members of the cooperatives are now producing additional products such as candles, as well as honey, which are sold to visiting tourists.

Those interested in learning more about the surrounding communities’ traditions can also visit the cultural centers and villages, some of which also offer campsites and other facilities.

9. What are the accommodation options at Rwanda Nyungwe National Park?

Nyungwe National Park offers accommodation to suit most tastes and budgets.

At the very top end is a boutique lodge called One&Only Nyungwe House, but there is also a good selection of mid-range and budget safari lodges, as well as a few campsites.

Munazi Eco Lodge, currently under construction and due to open in early 2024 will be a fully-catered camp featuring 10 ensuite chalets set deep within the forests of Nyungwe – the perfect option for immersing yourself in the forest experience.

Many travellers with also choose to stay on the shores of Lake Kivu and travel to and from the park on relatively good roads.

• Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
• One&Only Nyungwe House
• Munazi Eco Lodge

10. What to Pack for Nyungwe Forest safari?

The dense forests and rugged landscapes of Nyungwe necessitate exploration on foot.

As might be expected for an experience that involves hiking in a rainforest, appropriate footwear is an absolute must – preferably waterproof but, most importantly, worn-in and sturdy. The climate in Nyungwe Forest is relatively mild, with temperatures seldom reaching over 30˚C.

Still, it receives high rainfall levels every year, so waterproof gear for valuables is essential.

Long trousers and sleeves will protect against the forest’s more intrusive insects, and it is worth keeping in mind that the weather can be capricious and high altitudes mean cold temperatures at times.

• Waterproof hiking shoes
• Long trousers
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Sunscreen, insect repellent.
• Camera
• A pair of binocular

Akagera National Park is just an Icon of wildlife in Rwanda. When it comes to safari stereotypes, Rwanda is invariably associated with gorilla trekking, but in truth, this tiny nation offers the full African safari adventure. Rwanda is home to Akagera National Park where you can see Giraffes, Zebras, Hippos, Crocodiles, Antelopes and all the Big 5 animals of Africa.

Named after Akagera River, this safari park is the ideal complement to a gorilla trekking tour in Volcanoes National Park or a canopy walk Nyungwe Forest. Akagera is located on eastern border of Rwanda with Tanzania about a 2-hour drive from Kigali.

The Story of Akagera National Park

Akagera was first established in 1934, making it one of the oldest national parks in Africa. Between 1990 and 1994, Akagera was turned into a battleground between the Rwandan Army and the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), a rebel army mostly composed of Tutsi exiles. Much of the park’s area was a no-go zone for civilians.

A major army base was set in Gabiro, on the edge of the park, and the rebel army staged some of the fiercest battles in the area. In the immediate aftermath of the war, little was done to protect wildlife of Akagera. Most of the Rwandan staff, researchers, or conservationists working in parks had either left the country or been killed.

The new government, led by the victorious RPF, prioritized the resettlement of ethnic Tutsi who had previously lived in exile.

Rwanda was and remains a densely populated country, and with little availability of arable land, the government allowed returnees and their estimated 700,000 cattle to settle in Akagera National Park. The returnees converged on the park, putting a big strain on the delicate ecosystem.

In a move to moderate human-wildlife conflicts, returnees were allowed to remain, but in 1997, the size of Akagera National Park was reduced by two-thirds from 2,800 km² to 1,122 km². It was one of the biggest reductions in the size of a conservation area in modern African history. But Akagera’s problems did not end there.

Local residents and park officials who worked in Akagera during that time say elephants spent less time inside the new park than outside, where they roamed their historic feeding areas and feasted on new crops.

Setting up conflict, a single elephant can destroy up to a year’s worth of a farmer’s income in one night. Ungulates like topi, buffalo, impala, zebra, and warthogs continued to graze in the same areas as livestock, competing for food.

Lions and buffalo posed a serious threat to cattle and humans alike.

Loss of even a single cow can mean severe economic pain in the surrounding communities, and many responded by hunting or poisoning Akagera National Park’s wildlife until some species were eradicated completely.

Lions, which numbered over 300 individuals before the 1990s, were gone by 2002.

Poachers continued to infiltrate the park borders to pull thousands of pounds of fish out of the area’s many lakes every night.

The last black rhino was seen there in 2007. Faced with a make-or-break moment and a nature reserve that was increasingly becoming a park on paper only, in 2009, the Rwandan government shifted directions.

They signed a 20-year contract with African Parks, a Johannesburg-based non-profit that operates by taking over complete responsibility for the rehabilitation and management of conservation zones.

African Parks, along with RDB, a Rwandan government agency, created the Akagera Management Company, a joint not-for-profit business to oversee the park’s rehabilitation.

Thanks to considerable investment in the park’s infrastructure and security, existing wildlife populations began to recover, bolstered by ambitious reintroduction programmes. Tourist numbers, both local and international, grew in leaps and bounds, and by 2019, Akagera National Park was 90% self-financing.

Most importantly, community involvement has always been a fundamental tenant of African Park’s approach to managing all the parks under their guardianship, and Akagera is no different.

Today, 300,000 people on the park boundary directly benefit from its existence, while educational programmes and support for community enterprises have reshaped local perceptions.

Akagera National Park today is the proof that responsible tourism and sustainable conservation bring long-term security to both people and wildlife.

Animals in Akagera National Park

Wildlife in Akagera National Park is varied.

Carnivores in Akagera are limited to rarely seen leopards (about 150 individuals) and hyenas as well as genets, servals and jackals. And lions? 

In 2015 seven individuals were flown from South Africa to Rwanda in a chartered plane and transported to Akagera National Park.

There are now more than 50 lions in the park. Eighteen black rhinos were also introduced to Akagera National Park in 2017 and 30 white rhinos in 2021.

Of the other large ‘trophy’ animals there are an estimated 90 African bush elephants in the park, which are quite commonly seen.

Buffalo are also present in reasonably healthy numbers (about 3000), and there are masses of hippos and Nile crocodiles in the lakes.

Antelope and other plains game are well represented, though herds tend to be small and the animals rather skittish.

Common safari staples include impala, topi, zebra and waterbuck, as well as the majestic but rare roan antelope and the diminutive Oribi.

Maasai giraffes have been introduced and are faring well.

• Leopards
• Hyenas
• Genets
• Servals
• Jackals
• Lions
• Black rhinos
• White rhinos
• Elephants
• Buffalo
• Hippos
• Nile crocodiles
• Impala
• Topi
• Zebra
• Waterbuck
• Roan antelope
• Oribi
• Maasai giraffes

Birds in Akagera National Park Rwanda

Akagera National Park offers fantastic bird watching.

Of over 480 bird species recorded, about 100 species are not found in any other protected area in Rwanda.

Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s second most important birding site after Nyungwe Forest National Park, and the two parks complement each other perfectly – most birds recorded in Rwanda can be found in one of the parks, Birding is excellent around the banks of Lake Ihema.

The highlight is a small island where thousands of birds, including cormorants, darters, herons, ibises and African openbills, roost. Birding species include;

• Amur falcon
• Beaudouin’s snake eagle
• Black-crowned night heron
• Blue-headed coucal
• Blue-spotted wood dove
• Booted eagle
• Brown-chested lapwing
• Carruthers’s cisticola
• Caspian plover
• Denham’s bustard
• Double-toothed barbet
• Grasshopper buzzard
• Lesser jacana
• Marsh owl
• Marsh tchagra
• Martial eagle
• Moustached grass-warbler
• Papyrus gonolek
• Pennant-winged nightjar
• Red-faced barbet
• Ross’s turaco
• Rufous-bellied heron
• Shelley’s francolin
• Shoebill
• Sooty falcon
• White-winged swamp warbler
• Yellow-bellied eremomela
• Yellow-throated leaf-love

Activities in Akagera National Park Rwanda

Safari enthusiasts can indulge themselves in the Akagera National Park! Due to the wide variety of landscapes, many forms of safari are possible. View all options below:

1. Day Game Drive

Akagera National Park is ideal for long safaris with a 4×4 land cruiser or a comfortable minibus.

You will explore all corners of the national park by vehicle in search of wild animals. The game drive safaris usually take place early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Then the temperatures are most pleasant and the animals are most active, which means the chance of a successful safari is greatest.

The safaris in the south of Akagera National Park are characterized by seeing giraffes, rhinos and special birds.

On the north side of the park there are extensive savanna plains with lions, buffalo, zebras and leopards. The safaris are always guided by a professional ranger who knows the park like the back of his/her hand.

2. Night Game Drive

The night game drives in Akagera National Park usually start just before sunset.

This safari is guided by a ranger who specializes in spotting nocturnal animals. He takes a seat at the front of the car, on a specially made seat.

He will try to spot the wild animals with a large lamp. During these safaris, you can spot animals such as leopards, hippos, bush babies and small feline species.

3. Safari Boat Cruise

On the south side of Akagera National Park there are beautiful lakes, the largest of which is Lake Ihema. It is possible to take a boat cruise on this lake.

Boat trips are scheduled four times per day at 7.30am, 9am, 3pm and 4.30pm. Non-scheduled, private, trips can also be arranged between 10.30am to 1.30pm for an hour.

The focus is on spotting hippos, crocodiles, drinking animals along the waterfront and many bird species. The boat safaris are carried out in small groups of a maximum of 10 people.

4. Specialized Birding tours

Bird lovers can be assigned a ranger in Akagera National Park who is fully specialized in the 482 bird species that live in the park.

Together with this ranger, you spend a day looking for special bird species and explanations will be given about this.

This safari will mainly take place in the southern region of the park. Because of the swampy swamp area and the many lakes, most birds are spotted there.

5. Akagera Walking Safari

This Akagera National Park walking safari will expose you to nature’s fine detail and the thrill of moving among Africa’s iconic Big 5 and other large mammals on foot in a remarkable, awe-inspiring landscape.

6. Behind the scenes tour

Visitors to Akagera National Park can even opt for the “behind the scenes” tour of the park headquarters, where they can talk to park officials and learn more about the strenuous business of keeping a national park operational.

7. Cultural community experiences

Cultural community experiences near Akagera National Park also offer the opportunity to learn more about Rwanda’s remarkable people while contributing to local enterprises.

Learn about milking cows and traditions around cattle and milk on a farm in the Eastern Province; or spend time with banana beer and honey artisans to see how local products are made. All revenues generated by these visits are shared with members of the communities you visit.

Akagera National Park Accommodation

There are a few high-end and mid-range accommodation options inside Akagera National Park as well as public campsites for the budget traveller.

1. Magashi Camp

The upmarket Magashi Camp is situated within an exclusive wilderness in the remote northeastern corner of Akagera National Park. The camp is ideal for discerning safari travellers looking for the best of amenities and facilities.

It boasts of frequent sightings of wildlife around the locale.

Choose from one of the 8 lakeside tents that have rollable canvas sides so that you can immerse yourself in the beauty of The large bed comes with mosquito netting, while the deck outside has a small seating area to revel in the fabulous vistas.

2. Ruzizi Tented Lodge

If you are looking for an authentic tented safari experience in Akagera National Park, opt for Ruzizi Tented Lodge as your deluxe-priced accommodation.

Following eco-friendly principles in both building construction and operation, the lodge offers just 9 tents for discerning travelers, including a treetop suite.

Ruzizi is crafted from natural materials gathered locally and uses solar energy for power.

It’s located beside the papyrus-filled marshes of picturesque Lake Ihema, where you can watch hippos wallowing in the shallow water and crocodiles sunning themselves, their jaws agape.

Enjoy walking the boardwalks to access the lounge, dining area, and viewing deck, while the sounds of the bush fill your wilderness holiday with tranquility.

3. Akagera Game Lodge

A value vacation accommodation, Akagera Game Lodge is perched atop a ridge that offers panoramic views of Akagera National Park.

Featuring a series of 2-story motel-like structures with stone detailing, Akagera Game Lodge includes has a with an upper-level bar and 2 swimming pools, one of which is suited for guests with children.

In addition to its 62 rooms and suites, the lodge also offers 2 different rondavel cottages, one with three bedrooms and the other with two.

These cottages include a kitchenette and dining area. This is a child-friendly value lodge that can provide high chairs and cribs upon request.

4. Karenge camp

Karenge Bush Camp is a good mid-range option in Akagera National Park, offering furnished tented accommodation.

Perched on a ridge overlooking the wildlife-rich Kilala Plains below, Karenge Camp is an off-the-grid getaway for safari enthusiasts seeking privacy and solitude.

The camp is conveniently situated a short game drive from the north (exit only) gate to park – near productive game-viewing areas.

It is a rustic fully-catered bush camp featuring 6 tented chalets. Each tent has a private but separate outdoor bathroom and loo located a few steps from the tent.

5. Akagera Campsites

For the budget traveller, there are four public campsites:

• Shakani on the shores of Lake Shakani (where fishing is permitted)
• Mutamba at the highest point in the park
• Muyumbu overlooking Lake Ihema and Lake Shakani,
• Mihindi near the shores of Lake Mihindi

FAQs about Akagera National Park

1. When is the best time to visit Akagera National Park?

Though Akagera is accessible year-round, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from June until September, when the wildlife viewing is at its best and rain is less likely to be disruptive.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is the most accessible gorilla trekking destination in Africa. Established in 1925, it is also Africa’s oldest national park and home to some of the most luxurious safari accommodation on the continent.

This beautiful Rwanda national park is also where the legendary American Primatologist Dian Fossey studied and protected Gorillas for 18 years until her death in 1985. It is a place where against so many odds, the critically endangered mountain gorillas have flourished.

Here, special daily gorilla trekking excursions offers visitors the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come face-to-face with these magnificent gentle giants, which can weigh over 200 kg and share almost 98% of their DNA with us humans.

And while the mountain gorillas may be the stars, visitors always find themselves blown away by park’s breathtaking scenery and astonishing biodiversity.

Vegetation types include misty bamboo forest, Afro-montane rainforests, Afro-alpine shrubland, thicket, and grassland with marshes and small lakes interspersed.

Why Is Volcanoes National Park Rwanda Important?

Volcanoes National Park In Rwanda is a success story for country’s conservation and communities. The rich biodiversity of the national park is home to the highly endangered mountain gorilla and the endemic golden monkey.

The park also generates employment opportunities, livelihood and infrastructure development, community projects and so much more.

Why is it called Volcanoes National Park?

Volcanoes National Park is named after the dormant volcanoes located within it.

The park protects a vital portion the Virunga Mountains, a spectacular series of eight volcanoes that rises from the Great Rift Valley escarpment to a high point of 4,507m.

Most of the Volcanoes National Park lies at over 2,000 metres above sea level – not high enough to cause altitude sickness but something that certainly takes some getting used to for unacclimatised visitors.

How Many Volcanic Mountains Are In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park?

Volcanoes National Park is home to 5 of the 8 volcanic Virunga Mountains.

These mountains are the products of ferocious geological forces that shaped this section of the Great Rift Valley.

All 5 of the Virunga Volcanoes on the Rwandan side have long since retired from spewing lava (although there are 2 active volcanoes in the range in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo), but their presence in the park is no less dramatic for their dormancy.

The highest volcano in the park is Mount Karisimbi at 4507 meters/14787 feet. Other volcanoes in the park include:

• Mount Muhabura (4127 meters/13540feet)
• Mount Bisoke (3711 meters/12175 feet)
• Mount Sabyinyo 3,669 meters (12,037 feet)
• Mount Gahinga (3474 meters /11398 feet)

How Big Is Volcanoes National Park In Rwanda?

Volcanoes National Park is approximately 160 square kilometers in size. Rwanda is the 4th smallest country on the African continent, covering an area of about 26 340 square kilometers (10 170 square miles).

Where Is Volcanoes National Park Located In Rwanda?

Volcanoes National Park is located in the north-western corner of Rwanda.

The park is situated near the town of Musanze, formerly known as Ruhengeri. Volcanoes National Park’s offices are based in the small village called Kinigi, in the Musanze area. This park is found in the Virunga chain of volcanoes on the borders of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

With DR Congo’s Virunga National Park in the west and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda to the north, Volcanoes National Park is part of the Greater Virunga Conservation Area.

This trio of countries acts as the guardians of just over half of the world’s remaining population of endangered mountain gorillas, living on the forest-swathed slopes of the imposing volcanoes.

How Far Is Volcanoes National Park From Kigali In Rwanda?

Volcanoes National Park is Africa’s easiest gorilla trekking destination to access.

It is only about 80 kilometer (50 miles) from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. This means it takes about 2 to 3 hours to drive from Kigali International Airport (KGL) to Volcanoes National Park on a good paved road.

It is possible to embark on day trips to Volcanoes for gorilla trekking. But, we advise against day tours as it is just too far and there is so much more to see in and around Volcanoes National Park.

What is unique about Volcanoes National Park Rwanda?

1. Its Africa’s Oldest National Park

Volcanoes National Park is the oldest national park in Africa. It established in 1925. It was formerly called Albert National Park, after Belgium’s King Albert I.

A few years later (in 1929) the park was expanded into the Congo and it was run by the Belgian colonial authorities who were in charge of both colonies.

In the 1960s it was split into two national parks, namely Virunga National Park in the Congo and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. In the 1990s the Rwandan genocide devastated the country and the park became a battlefield and tourism ceased.

After years of turmoil, the Rwanda Government re-launched tourism and conservation efforts in Volcanoes National park. In 2005 they introduced the Kiwita Izina (a baby gorilla naming ceremony) for tourists, involving the local community

2. It’s Home To Over 300 Mountain Gorillas

Volcanoes National Park is famous for its gorilla trekking safaris.

The park protects about 300 mountain gorillas – around half the world’s existing population – and is the scene for what is often described as Africa’s easiest gorilla trekking. It is one of the three places to go mountain gorilla trekking in Africa.

That means it is one of only three places in the entire world where you can come face-to-face with mountain gorillas in the wild. No small claim to fame!

3. Its Where Dian Fossey Conducted Her Gorilla Research

Volcanoes is also where famous American primatologist Dian Fossey spent 18 years of her life studying and saving the amazing Mountain Gorillas from extinction.

The survival of these magnificent human cousins is largely credited to her work.

Fossey made incredible discoveries about Gorillas. Initially, Gorillas had a terrible reputation as savage beasts that would kill a human on sight.

In her study and love of these apes, she demolishes this myth. Living alongside Gorilla families, Fossey showed to the world that these massive ground-dwelling apes are actually gentle giants. In many ways, they are like us.

Slowly, she gained their trust and could sit near them and observe their daily lives. Accurately, she documented what they ate and how they vocalized and studied their social relationships. This method of gaining Gorilla’s trust is called Gorilla Habituation, Fossey’s great gift to the world.

Sadly, with all her work and struggles in fighting poachers over the years, Fossey had also made many enemies, especially among those who benefitted from this illegal trade.

This haunted her on a dark night in 1985 when she was brutally hacked to death with a crude machete. She was laid to rest in the gorilla graveyard in Volcanoes National Park next to her favorite Gorilla friend, Digit.

4. It’s Where “Gorillas in the Mist ” Movie Was Filmed

Later, Dian Fossey’s story was beautifully portrayed in the popular Hollywood movie ‘Gorillas in the Mist’ (1988), which was also the title of the book she wrote. The movie was filmed here in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

5. Troops of Endemic Golden Monkeys

In addition to its endangered mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is also home to troops of habituated golden monkeys.

These charismatic monkeys are almost as scarce as their gorilla cousins and are only found around the Virunga region. They are among the most beautiful of African monkeys

With their attractive facial mane, auburn capes of fur, and perpetually surprised expressions, the golden monkeys are the perfect photographic subjects, and their antics are endlessly entertaining.

Tracking them is less expensive and not as difficult as gorilla trekking, so many visitors add this activity to their visit.

6. Home to Over 200 Species of Unique Birds

Like Nyungwe Forest National Park in southern Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park offers some of the best birding in East Africa.

This bird-watching haven has over 200 different recorded species, including 17 Albertine Rift endemics. Some of the avian specials here include:

• Bronze sunbird
• Scarlet-tufted sunbirds
• Rwenzori Turacos
• Handsome Francolins
• Rwenzori double-collared sunbirds
• African green broadbills
• Rwenzori batises
• Archer’s robin-chat
• Doherty’s bush-shrike
• Dusky crimsonwing
• Grauer’s swamp warbler
• Lagden’s bush-shrike
• Red-faced woodland warbler
• Ruwenzori apalis
• Ruwenzori nightjar
• Strange weaver

7. beautiful scenery with Five volcanoes

Besides wildlife attractions, visitors are always blown away by the breathtaking scenery of Volcanoes National Park.

The park protects the Rwandan sector of the Virunga Volcanoes.

The beautiful scenery consists of a chain of these freestanding mountains, connected by forested saddles. The mountain gorillas are often found along these saddles, in enormous groves of bamboo.

How many gorilla families are in Volcanoes National Park?

There are 12 gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park that have been habituated for tourism (other families are habituated solely for research purposes).

Each gorilla family consists of several females and their young and is lead a by a silverback male.

On a guided trek you can spend up to an hour in their presence – plenty of time to observe their family dynamics, snap pictures, and make lifetime memories. The gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda include:

1. Susa Gorilla Family
2. Igisha Gorilla Family
3. Karisimbi Gorilla Family
4. Sabyinyo Gorilla Family
5. Amahoro Gorilla Family
6. Agashya Gorilla Family
7. Kwitonda Gorilla Family
8. Umubano Gorilla Family
9. Hirwa Gorilla Family
10. Bwenge Gorilla Family
11. Ugyenda Gorilla Family
12. Muhoza Gorilla Family

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking In Volcanoes National Park

Described by many as a life-changing experience, gorilla trekking is certainly one of Africa’s most sought-after bucket-list experiences. But perhaps more importantly, your gorilla trek directly empowers a huge ongoing conservation success story.

All Rwanda gorillas trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park. The adventure takes you through the verdant afro-montane forests.

Of course, your main focus will be mountain gorillas (read more about these gentle giants here), but you will encounter other wonderful species, such as golden monkeys, colourful Rwenzori Turacos and prehistoric three-horned chameleons – amongst others. You’ll be guided by experienced local ranger guides.

how does gorilla trekking in Volcanoes compare to other parks?

Volcanoes  is generally regarded to be the easiest place to track mountain gorillas and a good choice for anyone who is unsure about their fitness.

This is because the park’s habituated gorilla family groups are predictably territorial and can usually be found quite close to the forest edge, which is reached along any of several relatively flat footpaths.

Trekking conditions at Volcanoes National Park’s main competitor, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, are less inherently predictable and often involve long walks through steep and densely forested slopes.

The main negative of Volcanoes National Park is that the gorilla trekking permit costs US$1,500 per person as compared to US$700 in Uganda.

How much time do you have with the gorillas?

You will spend a maximum of one hour in the company of the mountain gorillas on any given gorilla-watching outing. This does not include time spent trekking to find the gorillas or the descent back to the trailhead.

Generally, if the gorillas are located in difficult terrain or the middle of a downpour, the guides will suggest you wait a while before joining the gorillas and starting the clock.

what Fitness Level Is Required For Gorilla Trekking In Volcanoes?

You don’t need to be super fit to go gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and moderately fit people should not find it too challenging.

In most cases, the hike from the trail-head to the forest edge is quite flat and easy, though the altitude might leave you out of breath.

Once in the forest, the terrain can be more challenging.

But you generally won’t need to walk too far or too fast. And the porters are used to assisting struggling trekkers up the steep and slippery slopes.

Visitors who are older than 50 and/or out of shape may find the trek more challenging. However, they can take heart from the fact that all people of 15 years and above and fitness levels have tracked gorillas in Volcanoes.

And while gorilla sightings are not guaranteed, the success rate is around 99%.

It helps that the guides usually have a good idea of how tough the hike to any given gorilla family will be on any given day, so they are able to allocate the easier options to elderly or less-fit trekkers.

What preparations are advised for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes?

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park takes place at high altitudes (up to 3,000 meters/9,842 feet). Thus, it is worth spending a few days acclimatizing in the nearby highlands, especially if you are unused to hiking and/or live close to sea level.

No special training is required for a gorilla trek. But if you would be daunted by the prospect of a two-hour walk at home, then try to build yourself up to a level where you can cover that distance in your stride. To protect you against stinging nettles, long sleeves are recommended. And long trousers tucked into long socks and solid walking shoes will help to deter biting ants.

Remember to carry a rainjacket, hat, sunblock and up to two liters of drinking water. A good walking stick is very useful in the forest interior, but you don’t need to bring one from home, as you will be offered one before you set off on the gorilla trekking adventure. Porters are also available to carry your day pack and to help push and pull you up any tricky slippery slopes.

How Much Will A Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Trekking Tour Cost?

The cheapest 2-day Rwanda gorilla trekking safaris to Volcanoes NP of the capital Kigali start at around US$ 2,000 per person.

These are usually inclusive of transport from Kigali, a transfer to the trailhead, accommodation, meals and the US$1,500 gorilla trekking permit.

Rwanda gorilla tours to Volcanoes National Park that use more luxurious accommodation or that are longer than 2 days will have a significantly higher price.

Which other activities are available in Volcanoes National Park?

A wide variety of guided hikes and treks are available in Volcanoes National Park. These include:

• Golden monkey trekking in the bamboo zone
• Hiking to Dian Fossey’s grave located in a scenic spot between Bisoke and Karisimbi volcano
• A scenic day hike to the Crater Lake at the 3,711m/12,175ft summit of Mount Bisoke
• An overnight route to the top of Mount Karisimbi, the highest point in the park
• Hike to the Mount Muhavura to look out across the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo (separated by an ancient Lava flow)
• A subterranean stroll through the atmospheric Musanze Caves
• Cultural visit to the nearby Iby’iwacu Cultural Village (Gorilla Guardian Village)
• Visiting the Great Lakes of Ruhondo and Bulera

Which other parks should I visit on a trip that includes a gorilla trek?

Rwanda is home to two other well-established national parks.

And visiting all three offers you a unique chance to see gorillas and chimpanzees as well as all the Big Five on one safari holiday package.

The most conventional safari destination in the country is Akagera National Park. This is a savannah game park that also incorporates some extensive lakes and wetlands fed by the Akagera River.

Leopard, Lion, buffalo, elephant, white rhino, black rhino, giraffe and hippo are all present in Akagera, along with a good variety of antelope and water birds.

On the other hand, Nyungwe National Park protects a vast tract of lush tropical rainforest set on hills that roll down to the border with Burundi.

Here, you can enjoy a trek in search of habituated chimpanzees, walk across the tallest canopy walkway in East Africa, and go on guided hikes to see gorgeous waterfalls, unique forest birds and half a dozen different types of monkey.

A little-known alternative to Nyungwe Forest National Park is the recently gazetted Giswati-Mukura National Park.

Because it is far closer to Volcanoes National Park, Giswati-Mukura is more convenient than Nyungwe for those with very limited time. Wildlife here includes golden monkeys, chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkey and a variety of forest birds.

Where to Stay In Volcanoes National Park In Rwanda?

The only visitors allowed in the park overnight are those that have booked multiple-day hiking excursions to the top of Mount Karisimbi. However, there are many accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to ultra-luxurious safari lodges on the periphery of the park. These include:

• Bisate Lodge
• Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
• One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge
• Virunga Lodge
• Singita Kwitonda Lodge
• Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
• Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
• Tiloreza Eco Lodge
• Garden Palace Hotel

Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park In Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park is open year-round, though the “best time” to visit is from June until September — the long dry season.

Though the highest rainfall levels occur from March to May and again in October and November, this is an equatorial region, and rain is possible at any time.

And, naturally, the famous mists do more than just hide the gorillas. Consequently, it is essential to waterproof all electronics and photographic equipment, and a good pair of non-slip, waterproof walking boots is vital.

Lake Kivu in Rwanda is a joy to reckon with! Although Rwanda may not have zanzibar or the Kenya Coast, it is still possible to take a beach break in the Land of 1,000 Hills. Beautiful Lake Kivu in Rwanda is part of Africa’s series of Great Lakes and the go-to destination for those looking for some rest and relaxation. This massive freshwater water boday lies on the western side of Rwanda and framed by imposing hills, nestled within a verdant valley. It is not only the country’s largest freshwater lake, but also marks the natural border with neighboring Congo.

Considered a hidden gem among the tourist attractions of Rwanda, Lake Kivu in Rwanda is ideally located as a stopping point between the mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park and the chimpanzees of Nyungwe Forest. Imagine spending a few days exploring Rwanda’s verdant forests, tracking wild gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees on foot, and walking in the footsteps of Rwandan kings, and then traveling a short distance to a sparkling lake and lovely beach for some rejuvenation.

Kivu offers endless possibilities for fun-filled beach days, including boat cruises, water sports, beachfront lounging and more! The shores of Lake Kivu are dotted with resorts, 5-star hotels, backpackers, and family-friendly hotels for all budgets.

Geography

Lake Kivu is part of the Albertine Rift Valley, the western branch of the East African Rift, covering parts of Uganda, Rwanda, DR Congo, Burundi and Tanzania.

As a result, there is high volcanic activity in the area, which means that the region around the lake has a special flora and fauna compared to other Rift Valley lakes.

Lake Kivu in Rwanda is about 42 kilometers long and 50 kilometers at it’s widest. The irregular shape of the lake makes measuring its precise surface area difficult; it has been estimated to cover a total surface area of some 2,700 square kilometers, making it Africa’s 8^th  largest lake. The surface of the lake sits at a height of 1,460 meters above sea level. The world’s 10^th largest island in a lake, Idjwi, lies in Lake Kivu in Rwanda.

The maximum depth of Lake Kivu is 475 meters making it the 20^th deepest lake on the planet. Lake Kivu empties into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika.

History

In the past, Lake Kivu drained toward the north, contributing to the Nile River. About 13,000 to 9,000 years ago, volcanic activity blocked Lake Kivu’s outlet to the watershed of the Nile.

The volcanism produced mountains, including the Virunga Volcanoes, which rose between Lake Kivu and Lake Edward, to the north. Water from Lake Kivu was then forced south down the Ruzizi. This, in turn, raised the level of Lake Tanganyika, which overflowed down the Lukuga River.

In 1894, German explorer and Officer Gustav Adolf von Götzen was the first European to discover the lake. Since then it has maintained a historical importance for been caught up in the conflict between Hutu and Tutsi people in Rwanda, and their allies in Congo, which led to the 1994 Genocide and the first and second Congo wars. Lake Kivu gained notoriety as a place where many of the victims of the genocide were dumped.

Chemistry

Lake Kivu is a multi-layered lake whose depths are saturated with trapped carbon dioxide and methane. It is one of 3 lakes on Earth, along with Lake Nyos and Lake Monoun that undergo limnic eruptions, where overturn of deepwater stratified layers releases dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2).

The bottom of Lake Kivu also contains methane (CH4), meaning a limnic eruption can occur if the lake is disturbed, putting the lives of people living nearby in danger. The amount of methane gas contained at the bottom of Lake Kivu is estimated to be around 65 cubic kilometres.

If burned in a modern combined-cycle generating plant, that amount of methane would generate around 40,000 megawatts for an entire year, which is equivalent to the power output of 6 Grand Coulee Dams operating at peak springtime power.

Until 2004, extraction of the methane gas was done on a small scale, with the extracted gas being used to run boilers at a brewery, the Bralirwa in Gisenyi.

Nice Locations At Lake Kivu

1. Gisenyi

Also known as Rubavu, Gisenyi town is located in the far north of Lake Kivu in Rwanda. After the capital Kigali, this is the largest city in Rwanda! Due to its location near the famous Volcanoes National Park, this place has developed as a place with good tourist facilities. There are a variety of accommodation options along the shores of the lake, which also have beautiful private beaches and trendy bars ideal for sundowner cocktails. Gisenyi is an ideal location to recover from impressions gained in the Volcanoes. From here, you can also visit the Pfunda Tea Estate or start a walk along the Congo Nile Trail.

2. Kibuye

Now better known as Karongi, Kibuye is situated halfway between the north and the south of the Lake Kivu in Rwanda. This authentic town is only visited by few tourists. Yet it has a fantastic location, which is mainly interesting as a stopover on the way from Nyungwe Forest to the impressive Volcanoes National Park. Kibuye is encircled by beautiful hills and there are beautiful peninsulas in the lake.

Here, you can experience authentic Rwanda better than anywhere else. Local fishermen with their beautiful fishing boats, children playing on the waterfront, and women working on the plantations: here you get a special insight into rural life. Here too, travelers can hike part of the Congo Nile Trail, spot birds on Napoleon Island or simply enjoy the beautiful view.

3. Cyangungu

Also known as Rusizi, Cyangugu is the last town at the south of Lake Kivu in Rwanda. It overlooks Bukavu town on the other side of the lake in DR Congo. Cyangugu is not as developed as Gisenyi and Kibuye and does not have a lot of hotels. The town is located about 30 – 40 minute drive from Nyungwe Forest and is thus a good place to stay when visiting Nyungwe for the chimpanzee trekking, canopy walk or other treks in the forest.

Activities At Lake Kivu

The real joy of the Lake Kivu region is driving between its towns – the road gently twists back and forth as it winds through the gorgeous mountains and hills beside the lake. A visit to Lake Kivu in Rwanda is also worthwhile for hiking and cycling enthusiasts as well as travelers who want to get to know the local inhabitants of Rwanda.

Lake Kivu region is a great option if you want to take an unhurried route between Nyungwe Forest and Volcanoes National Parks, stopping over to enjoy the lake’s beautiful beaches and warm, safe swimming waters. Here are the details about all the best things to do at Lake Kivu.

1. Relaxing By The Lake

Believe it or not, Lake Kivu in Rwanda has one of the best beach escapes in Central Africa! The gorgeous scenery does much to relax you. Most accommodations on the shores of the lake feature a private beach or a grassy meadow where you can relax.

2. Boat Trips

Off the coast of Kibuye Town lies Napoleons Island, a small island rich in many bird species. It is possible to take a boat cruise to the island in about 30 minutes, after which you will receive a tour and look for the various bird species. It is a fun-filled day trip that also offers a surprising view of the rolling hills of the mainland. You can as well board a tour boat on Lake Kivu before sunset to hear the famous “Singing Fishermen” of Lake Kivu. The songs, sung in a mix of deep baritones and high-pitched chants, are a part of the nightly ritual of these men, who will spend about 12 hours on the water.

The rhythm of the songs guides their paddle strokes, as they move a trio of large, wooden boats across Lake Kivu. When they find a perfect spot for fishing, they stop the singing. Then, the nine men work together to use the boat’s long poles to cast a wide net between them, set up kerosene lamps to attract the fish, and wait.

3. Kayaking

You can also take a kayak excursion to discover the blue and clear waters that lap the scenic shores of Lake Kivu. There are several of sandy inlets where you can stop and relax while watching birds that dart in and out of the surrounding bushes. Fear not, kayaking on Lake Kivu in Rwanda is super safe as there are no hippos or crocodiles.

You will find peace and tranquility on the quiet waters and feel the touch of the breeze, with the volcanic mountains as an astonishing backdrop. Kayaking on Lake Kivu in Rwanda is also another great opportunity to approach the Singing Fishermen on their superb traditional wooden boats. You may hear them singing rhythmically as they paddle out in unison – a memorable experience.

4. Hike Or Bike The Congo Nile Trail

On the shores of Lake Kivu there is a cycling and hiking trail of no less than 227km (140 miles) long, called the ‘Congo Nile Trail’. In recent years, this route has become one of the most well-known hiking and cycling trails in Rwanda. It uses a series of interconnected dirt road, rural paths, and drivable tracks through the tropical Kivu Region. Running roughly parallel to the eastern shores of the lake, the entire route can be completed in about 10 days on foot or 5 days on a mountain bike.

Expect a unique adventure amid rolling hills, vast coffee plantations and fascinating tropical forests – not to mention phenomenal lake views. Cycling or hiking is not the only focus, it is also a great way to meet locals and share traditional activities, including honey harvesting, craft making,  visiting tea or coffee estates or joining local fishermen as they spend the night fishing sambaza (small fish).

The icing on the cake: there are also several hidden beaches en route where you can take a dip. There are dangerous animals living in Lake Kivu in Rwanda– so it is perfectly safe – and recommended – to refresh on a beach after a day’s hiking or biking the trail. There are also various types of accommodation enroute. Your guide can arrange camping, but if tents or campsites are not your things, there are guesthouses, homestays, and small lodges you can opt to stay in.

 5. Tea Estate And Coffee Tours

The rich volcanic soil of Rwanda, together with high altitudes, makes ideal growing conditions for coffee, which, along with tea, is one of the top exports of the country. A network of close to half a million small growers produce coffee all over Rwanda, including the northernmost Virunga region, and Akagera, a southeastern region with the country’s only Big Five destination, Akagera National Park.

The most famous coffee-producing area is concentrated around Lake Kivu’s Gisenyi Town. Here, you can visit spots like the Kinunu Washing Station overlooking Lake Kivu or the Ingoboka Collective on Nyamirundi Island, to learn about Rwanda’s renowned coffee variety, Bourbon Arabica. Also you can visit Pfunda Tea Estate which is located about 10 minutes from Gisenyi Town. In 2011, this became the first plantation in Rwanda to officially receive a certificate for sustainability. Thanks to its location on the volcanic hills, the tea is of excellent quality. Travelers are welcome to take a look at the plantations and taste the tea themselves.

How do I get from Kigali to Lake Kivu?

You can get to Lake Kivu by road as well as plane as well as from Kigali.

By road, you’ll spend around 3 hours driving from Kigali to Lake Kivu on a well-tarmacked route. Furthermore, public transportation is also accessible from Kigali; you may take a bus from Kigali to Kibuye, Cyangugu, or Gisenyi. Buses from these towns to Lake Kivu in Rwanda run regularly.

By Air, you can also reach Kivu through chartered aircraft from Kigali International Airport. You can take a chartered flight from Kigali to Gisenyi airport, where you’ll be connected to Lake Kivu for leisure and exploration by either public or private transfers, depending on your travel package.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Lake Kivu?

If you are planning a Rwanda safari holiday to the Lake Kivu, the dry seasons are the ideal time to visit the gorgeous lake. The hottest months of June through August through October are the finest seasonal months to visit Lake Kivu. These months feature cool temperatures and clear sunny days, with temperatures ranging between 15 to 27 degrees Celsius. However, Lake Kivu is a fantastic Rwanda safari destination that can be visited at any time of the year. All this depends on your travel interests.

Accommodation – Lake Kivu Hotels & Resorts

As Lake Kivu attracts a number of tourists and Rwandan holidaymakers, there are a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget, midrange to luxury hotels, resorts, and guesthouses. The views from many hotels and guesthouses across the lake are lovely, with little sandy beaches and grassy banks leading down to the palm-fringed shore.

1. Gisenyi

Some of the hotels we can recommend for international visitors include:

• Lake Kivu Serena Hotel (upmarket)
• Paradis Malahide Hotel (Midrange)
• Inzu Lodge (budget).

2. Kibuye

Some of the hotels we can recommend to international visitors include:

• Kivu Lode (upmarket)
• Moriah Hill Resort (Midrange)
• Comoran Lodge (Midrange)
• Home Saint Jean (Budget)

3. Cyangungu

Hotels we can recommend in Cyangugu include:

• Peace Guesthouse (Budget)
• Emeraude Kivu Resort (midrange)

Do You Have Questions About Lake Kivu?

Ask them to our specialists. All Rwanda specialists are happy to help you organize your dream trip!