Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe

Situated nestled away close to Rwanda’s border with Burundi, Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to 13 different kinds of primates, the most famous of which is the chimp. Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the most popular tourist activities in Rwanda. One of the terrestrial events that is believed to have impacted the forest’s evolution over time is the movement of tectonic plates during the ice age. The environment is sound due to its biodiverse nature, and the enclosed tree crowns covered in massive Gisakura Tea Estates create a distinctive shade for the evergreen forest.

Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park takes you to the  L’hoest monkeys, vast groups of black and white colobus monkeys, nocturnal primates including pottos and bush infants, and other numerous primates protected by the gazette. Even though they are so uncommon to witness, there are other mammals in the park.

Up to 98% of human DNA is thought to be shared by chimpanzees, who like to build their nests in tree canopies and are known for their socially adept and intellectual behaviour. They have also been observed utilising tools to gather insects from ant holes, such as termites.

Chimpanzee tracking, which takes place in two periods at 8:00 a.m. and the afternoon at 2:00 p.m. East African time, is the most popular activity in the Nyungwe Forest. Park rangers provide a briefing before the two- to three-hour tracking begins at the Uwinka Visitor Centre. You then go back to meet your guide. Throughout the trek, look out for many species, including red-tailed, dentista, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.

Prior to beginning any chimpanzee tracking, one must purchase a permit. Tracking is done while keeping an eye on the park rangers’ rules and regulations, which include not feeding the animals and not eating bears. If you’re lucky, you might also be able to spot rare species like buffaloes, forest hogs, and elephants. When going on a chimpanzee safari, you should usually bring long sleeves, long pants, bug repellent, waterproof boots, gaiters, and any other personal belongings. You should also consider packing waterproof phone cases and camera covers.

Additional park attractions include the Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk, which is open to visitors up to the age of six and boasts a stunning, lengthy suspended bridge full of sights and adventures. One of Rwanda’s best places to go birding is Nyungwe Forest National Park. There are many endemic species in the Albertine Rift Valley, such as purple-crested sunbirds and Ruwenzori Turaco. You can also track black and white colobus monkeys there; imagine seeing huge groups of monkeys dressed entirely in black and white.

The best times for Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park are from June to September and from December to February. During these seasons, the park’s nature trails are significantly drier than they are during the wet season. To make visitors’ stays easier, the park offers lodging options, such as the one and only Nyungwe Lodge.