Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest in southwestern Rwanda is a vast reservoir of biodiversity and is considered one of Central Africa's best-preserved mountain rainforests. Over an area of more than 1,000 square kilometers, it is home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and large groups of Angola colobus monkeys. The park is a true paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 species occurring here, many of which are endemic. The absolute highlight for visitors is the Canopy Walkway, a suspension bridge hanging 70 meters above the forest floor, offering a completely new perspective on the green canopy. Numerous well-marked hiking trails lead to hidden waterfalls and through dense ferns. The humid, cool air and the constant calls of primates create an atmosphere of deep connection with nature. The forest also plays an important role as a watershed for the great Congo and Nile rivers. The surroundings are characterized by easy on the eye tea gardens that form a beautiful contrast to the dark green of the primary forest. Visitors usually stay in lodges at the park's edge, which organize chimpanzee habituation treks. The journey from Kigali takes about five to six hours by car. Although Nyungwe can be visited year-round, the drier months from July to September and January to February are best for hiking.

Nearby cities

Rubavu

A picturesque resort town on the shores of Lake Kivu, directly bordering the Congolese city of Goma.

Karongi

An idyllic coastal town with many bays and forested peninsulas stretching far into Lake Kivu.

Rusizi

A bustling border town at the southern end of Lake Kivu, bridging to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Ngororero

An administrative headquarters deep in the Rwandan mountains, characterized by artisanal mining and agriculture.

Bugarama

The lowest-lying center in Rwanda in the southwestern rift valley, known for tropical heat and rice cultivation.

Nyabihu

A cool mountain town on the edge of the volcanic chain, where the country's best dairy products are made.

Mukamira

A bustling trading town on the main axis between Musanze and Lake Kivu, surrounded by green volcanic slopes.

Nyamasheke

A quiet center on the shores of Lake Kivu, famous for the extensive coffee plantations in the surrounding area.

Bigogwe

Famous for extensive, lush pastures where traditional livestock farming is practiced according to centuries-old patterns.

Kora

A small town in the northwestern mountains, where local agriculture benefits from fertile volcanic soil.

Bweyeye

A remote settlement in the Nyungwe Forest on the Burundian border, characterized by dense forests and isolation.

Nkombo Island

Rwanda's largest island in Lake Kivu, known for its unique culture, traditional fishermen, and Amashi dialect.

Napoleon Island (Nyamunini)

A prominent island in Lake Kivu famous for its massive colony of fruit bats and stunning panoramic hiking trails.

Rutsiro

A rural town high above the lake that maintains strong ties with the Gishwati-Mukura National Park.

Lake Kivu

One of the African Great Lakes, nestled among emerald hills, ideal for relaxation, water sports, and coffee experiences.

History & landmarks

Bisesero Genocide Memorial

Known as the Memorial of Resistance, this site honors the Tutsi who bravely defended themselves against militias on the hills of Bisesero.

Gisenyi Grand Mosque

A striking Islamic place of worship in Rubavu (Gisenyi) near the Congolese border, representing Rwanda's growing Muslim community.

Nature

Akanyaru River

A border river between Rwanda and Burundi, part of a large wetland.

Nyabarongo River

The longest river in Rwanda, a main tributary of the Akagera.

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Lake Cyohoha

A lake on the border with Burundi, surrounded by swamp landscapes.

Lake Mugesera

A shallow lake in the southeast, known for its wetlands.

More places

Huye Coffee Processing

A major center for processing and exporting high-quality Rwandan Arabica coffee.

Bisesero Genocide Memorial

This monument honors the heroic resistance of the Tutsi in the Bisesero region against the Interahamwe militias.

Bugarama Hot Springs

Historically significant thermal springs used for generations for healing purposes and as a gathering place.

Environment Museum Karongi

A museum that highlights the historical relationship between the people of Rwanda and their natural environment.

Ndaba Rock

A historical rock with a waterfall, associated with legends of a mythical hunter named Ndaba.

Southern Amethyst Mine

A site for mining semi-precious stones, especially amethyst, for export.

Gisagara Peat Power Plant

An 80 MW thermal power plant contributing to reducing Rwanda's energy imports.

Kigali Nature Experience

An interactive area in Kigali that brings nature closer to children.