Things To Know Before Visiting Nyungwe National Park
Introduction to Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. It covers 1,019 km2 of dense Afromontane forests, bamboo-covered slopes, grasslands and wetlands. Nyungwe National Park lies in the southwest of Rwanda. It borders Burundi in the south and the Democratic Republic of Congo in the west, near the shores of Lake Kivu. The park sits about a 6-hour drive from Kigali International Airport in the capital city of Kigali, Rwanda. Below are things you need to know before visiting Nyungwe National Park.
History of Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park has existed since 1903. In 2004, it became a National Park. It forms part of Rwanda’s four national parks, namely Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park and Gishwati Mukura National Park.
Biodiversity and Importance
One of the key things you need to know before visiting Nyungwe National Park is its ecological importance. The park feeds two of the world’s largest river systems, the Congo River and the Nile River. This forest provides about 70 percent of Rwanda’s fresh water. It supports 1,068 plant species, 322 bird species, 75 mammal species and 13 primate species.
Top Experience: Canopy Walk
Another important highlight of Nyungwe National Park is the famous Canopy Walk. This suspended bridge stretches 160 meters and stands 70 meters high. It gives you a unique view above the forest and its surroundings at a distance.
Activities in Nyungwe National Park
Other things to know before visiting Nyungwe National Park include the main activities. You can enjoy colobus monkey tracking and chimpanzee trekking. You can also do birding, nature walks and tea plantation visits. These visits show you the full process from farm work to tea processing and finally to a cup.
How to Access Nyungwe National Park
Access is another key thing to know before visiting Nyungwe National Park. You can reach the park by road in about 6 hours from Kigali. If you combine it with Volcanoes National Park, the drive takes about 4 hours. You can also reach Nyungwe by helicopter. Akagera Aviation offers flights from Kigali International Airport in about 45 minutes. Flights from Volcanoes National Park take about 30 minutes.
Also Read: Accessible African Safaris for Seniors
Accommodation Options
Accommodation is another key point when planning your visit to Nyungwe National Park. You can stay inside or around the park depending on your budget. Options include budget, mid-range and luxury lodges. Some popular choices include One & Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Forest Lodge, Nyungwe Top View Hotel, Emeraude Kivu Resort and Mantis Kivu Marina Bay.
Final Advice
The list of things to know before visiting Nyungwe National Park is long. However, to ensure a smooth and memorable trip, you need a reliable tour operator. Reach out to us and we will handle everything. This includes itinerary design, park permits, accommodation bookings and transport throughout your stay.
