Embark on a captivating journey with our 3 Days Rwanda Chimpanzee Tracking Safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park. This adventure offers an immersive experience into Rwanda’s rich biodiversity, combining primate encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights.
Begin your adventure with a morning pickup in Kigali. Embark on a Kigali City Tour, visiting landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial to gain insights into Rwanda’s history and resilience.
After the tour, enjoy a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, approximately 5-6 hours away. The journey offers picturesque views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and rural landscapes.
Arrive at your lodge near Nyungwe Forest in the late afternoon. Settle in and relax, preparing for the exciting chimpanzee tracking experience the following day. Dinner and overnight Stay at;
Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe House/ Midrange: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel/ Budget: Gisakura Guest House
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee tracking guidelines and safety measures. You’ll be assigned to a chimpanzee group and embark on a trek through the dense forest. The duration of the trek varies, depending on the chimpanzees’ location, but the reward is an unforgettable hour spent observing these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.
Return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, experience the Canopy Walk, a 90-meter-long suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the forest and its inhabitants. This walk provides a unique perspective of the forest’s biodiversity. Accommodation: Same lodge as previous night.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
On rising, enjoy breakfast and embark on a guided forest walk to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Nyungwe Forest. This walk offers opportunities to spot various bird species, butterflies, and other primates, enhancing your understanding of the forest’s ecosystem.
After the walk, return to your lodge to freshen up and have lunch. Then, begin the drive back to Kigali, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past days. Upon arrival in Kigali, your guide will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your Safari.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch
This 3 Days Rwanda Chimpanzee Tracking Safari combines wildlife encounters with cultural immersion, offering a well-rounded and enriching Rwandan experience. From trekking with chimpanzees to exploring the forest canopy, this itinerary provides unforgettable memories in a short yet fulfilling journey.
Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda, offers a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for this unforgettable experience.
As of 2024, the cost for a chimpanzee tracking permit in Nyungwe Forest National Park is $250 per person for international visitors. This fee includes park entry and the tracking experience.
Permits can be secured through the Rwanda Development Board’s online reservation system. It’s advisable to book well in advance due to limited daily slots.
The optimal time for tracking is during the rainy seasons, from mid-May to late August, when fig trees are abundant with fruit, attracting chimpanzees closer to the forest edges.
Wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and sturdy hiking boots to protect against insects and thorny vegetation. Bring a rain jacket, insect repellent, and a camera with a good zoom lens. A small backpack for water and snacks is also recommended.
The trek can be moderately to highly strenuous, involving navigating steep and uneven terrain. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Porters are available for hire to assist with carrying belongings.
While sightings are not guaranteed due to the wild nature of chimpanzees, the success rate is relatively high, especially in the smaller Cyamudongo Forest, where the chimpanzee community is more accustomed to human presence.
Yes, participants must be at least 15 years old to engage in chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Beyond chimpanzee tracking, visitors can enjoy canopy walks, guided nature hikes, bird watching, and exploring the park’s rich biodiversity, including other primate species and numerous bird species.
The park is approximately a 4-hour drive from Kigali. Private vehicles or tour operators can facilitate transportation. Alternatively, domestic flights are available to an airstrip near the park.
A range of accommodations is available, from luxury lodges like One & Only Nyungwe House to midrange options such as Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel and budget-friendly choices like Gisakura Guest House.
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