Illustrated landscape representing Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe Forest

Old montane rainforest in the south-west, with chimpanzees and very large colobus troops.

What it is

One of the oldest forests in Africa, around 1,000 sq km along the Burundi border, managed by African Parks since 2020. A canopy walkway crosses a ravine about 60m above the forest floor.

Why go

Angolan colobus move here in troops of several hundred, which is unusual anywhere in Africa. Thirteen primate species, strong Albertine Rift endemic birding, and good waterfall walks.

When to go

June to September and December to February. Be honest with yourself about the chimpanzees: Nyungwe's are habituated, but the terrain is steep and the trees are tall, and sightings are less reliable than Kibale's in Uganda. Come for the forest itself and treat a good chimp morning as a bonus. It is four to five hours from Kigali by road, or you can fly to Kamembe.

Most people stay 2-3 nights.

Where to go here

Trips that go here

Talk to someone who has been there