Experience Nyungwe Forest Chimpanzee Trekking with Go Safaris Africa. Canopy walks, Rwanda primates & rainforest safaris in Rwanda.

Nyungwe Forest Chimpanzee Trekking — Primate Safaris in Rwanda with Go Safaris Africa

Chimpanzee Tracking | Canopy Walk | Colobus Monkeys | Rwanda Rainforest Adventures

Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s most ancient and biodiverse rainforests, offering one of the best chimpanzee trekking experiences on the continent. Located in southwest Rwanda along the border with Burundi, Nyungwe is a breathtaking landscape of mist-covered mountains, deep valleys, and dense tropical forest — home to over 13 species of primates, more than 300 bird species, and a rich variety of plant life.

With Go Safaris Africa, your Nyungwe chimpanzee trekking experience is carefully organized with professional guides, comfortable transport, and customized safari itineraries. Whether you’re a primate lover, nature photographer, birdwatcher, or adventure traveler, Nyungwe offers an unforgettable rainforest journey.

Why Choose Nyungwe Forest for Chimpanzee Trekking?

Nyungwe is Rwanda’s main destination for observing chimpanzees in the wild. The forest is well-managed, easily accessible, and offers high trekking success rates.

Top Reasons to Visit Nyungwe Forest:

✔ Best chimpanzee trekking destination in Rwanda
✔ Home to over 500 chimpanzees
✔ 13 different primate species
✔ Africa’s only canopy walk in East Africa
✔ One of Africa’s oldest rainforests
✔ Excellent birdwatching opportunities
✔ Accessible roads and luxurious rainforest lodges

Nyungwe is ideal for travelers looking to combine gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park with a second primate experience.

Chimpanzee Trekking Experience in Nyungwe

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe involves hiking into the forest to find and observe a habituated chimpanzee community in its natural habitat.

What Happens on Trek Day:

  • Early morning departure (around 5:30–6:00 AM)
  • Briefing at the park headquarters
  • Guided walk into the forest
  • Tracking chimpanzees
  • One hour with the chimpanzees
  • Return to the lodge or proceed with more activities

Trekking time can last between 1–4 hours, depending on the location of the chimps.

Once found, you will enjoy an exciting one-hour observation as they jump across trees, communicate, and forage.

Chimpanzees are very active — often louder and faster than gorillas — making this a thrilling and dynamic tracking experience.

Nyungwe Chimpanzee Trek Permit Cost

Current permit price (2025/2026):

  • $150 per person (Foreign Non-Residents)
  • $75 per person (Foreign Residents)
  • $25 per person (Rwandan citizens / EAC)

Go Safaris Africa assists with securing your permits as part of your safari package.

More Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park

1. Canopy Walk

Nyungwe’s famous canopy walk is a 90-meter suspended bridge hanging 50 meters above the forest floor — offering breathtaking views over the treetops.

It provides a chance to spot:

  • Birds
  • Monkeys
  • Forest canopies
  • Scenic landscapes

2. Colobus Monkey Trekking

Nyungwe is home to black-and-white colobus monkey troops numbering over 300 individuals per group, among the largest in Africa.

3. Nature & Waterfall Walks

The forest offers 13 well-marked hiking trails, leading to:

  • Waterfalls
  • Tree giant paths
  • Scenic viewpoints
  • Rare plant species

4. Birdwatching in Nyungwe

Nyungwe has over 300 bird species, including many Albertine Rift endemics. It is a paradise for bird lovers.

1. 2-Day Nyungwe Chimpanzee Trek

Includes:

  • Transfer from Kigali
  • Chimp trekking
  • Canopy walk
  • Overnight in Nyungwe area

2. 3-Day Nyungwe Primate Safari

  • Chimpanzee trekking
  • Canopy walk
  • Colobus monkey trekking
  • Nature walk
  • Tea plantation visit

3. 5–7 Day Best of Rwanda Primate Safari

  • Gorilla trekking (Volcanoes NP)
  • Chimp trekking (Nyungwe Forest)
  • Golden monkeys
  • Lake Kivu relaxation

A perfect combination of Rwanda’s top primate experiences.

How to Get to Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe is about 5–6 hours’ drive from Kigali, passing through beautiful countryside, tea plantations, and rural villages.

Go Safaris Africa provides comfortable transport in:

  • 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers
  • Pop-up roof safari vehicles
  • Air-conditioned cars for scenic transfers

Best Lodges in Nyungwe Forest

Luxury

  • One&Only Nyungwe House
  • Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Midrange

  • Nyungwe Hill Top View Hotel
  • Gisakura Guest House

Budget

  • Golden Monkey Hotel
  • Muraho Hotel

We recommend accommodation depending on your travel budget and trekking timetable.

Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe

Chimpanzee trekking is available year-round, but the best months are:

Dry Seasons:

  • June – September
  • December – February

During these months, trails are less muddy and tracking is easier.

Rainy seasons (March–May, October–November) are also good for bird lovers but require good hiking gear.

Why Book Your Nyungwe Safari with Go Safaris Africa?

✔ Professional local expert guides
✔ Reliable transport & safari vehicles
✔ Free chimp permit assistance
✔ Affordable packages for all budgets
✔ Seamless trip planning
✔ 24/7 customer support
✔ Responsible eco-tourism partners

We ensure you experience Nyungwe Forest in comfort, safety, and with expert knowledge.

Book Your Nyungwe Forest Safari Today

Let Go Safaris Africa design your perfect chimpanzee trekking experience in Rwanda’s ancient rainforest.

Go Safaris Africa — Your Primate & Rainforest Safari Specialists in Rwanda & Uganda.