3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe

1. Chimpanzee Trekking: Spend hours tracking and observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat, learning about their social structures, behaviors, and communication.
2. Canopy Walkway Adventure: Walk across East Africa’s only canopy walkway, suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, for stunning views and birdwatching opportunities.
3. Scenic Beauty: Explore Nyungwe’s lush rainforest, waterfalls, and mist-covered hills, offering some of the most picturesque landscapes in Rwanda.
4. Cultural Encounters: Visit local communities to learn about traditional Rwandan culture, crafts, and daily life.
5. Birdwatching: Spot some of Nyungwe’s 300+ bird species, including rare endemics like the Rwenzori Turaco and Grauer’s Rush Warbler.
6. Guided Nature Walks: Discover the park’s diverse flora, including orchids, giant lobelias, and ancient mahogany trees.
7. Conservation Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the efforts to protect Nyungwe’s chimpanzees and other endangered species.

Day 1: Arrival in Nyungwe National Park

• Morning: Depart from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, for a scenic 5-6 hour drive to Nyungwe National Park. The journey takes you through rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural villages, offering a glimpse into Rwanda’s stunning countryside.
• Afternoon: Arrive at your lodge or camp near the park. Check-in and enjoy a delicious lunch while soaking in the views of the rainforest.
• Evening: Attend a briefing by your guide about the chimpanzee trekking experience. Learn about the park’s rules, safety precautions, and what to expect during the trek. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing at your accommodation, enjoying the serene atmosphere of the rainforest.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Canopy Walkway

• Early Morning: Wake up early for a hearty breakfast before heading to the park headquarters. Meet your guide and receive a final briefing before starting your chimpanzee trek. The trek begins at dawn, as this is when chimpanzees are most active.
• Chimpanzee Trekking: Embark on an exhilarating trek through the dense rainforest, following the sounds and signs of chimpanzees. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzee groups. Once you find them, spend an unforgettable hour observing their behavior, interactions, and vocalizations. Your guide will provide insights into their social structures, feeding habits, and conservation status.
• Midday: Return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation. Reflect on your chimpanzee encounter and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• Afternoon: Head to the Canopy Walkway for a thrilling adventure. Suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, the walkway offers panoramic views of the rainforest and opportunities to spot birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. The walkway is 200 meters long and provides a unique perspective of Nyungwe’s ecosystem.
• Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay. Share stories of the day’s adventures with fellow travelers and enjoy the sounds of the forest at night.

Day 3: Nature Walk and Departure

• Morning: After breakfast, embark on a guided nature walk to explore Nyungwe’s diverse flora and fauna. Choose from a variety of trails, such as the Igishigishigi Trail or the Kamiranzovu Marsh Trail, each offering unique sights and experiences. Your guide will point out medicinal plants, rare bird species, and other wildlife along the way.
• Midday: Return to your lodge for lunch and check-out. If time permits, visit a nearby community to learn about traditional Rwandan culture and crafts. Participate in activities like basket weaving, banana beer brewing, or traditional dance performances.
• Afternoon: Begin your journey back to Kigali or your next destination. The drive offers one last chance to admire Rwanda’s stunning landscapes and reflect on your incredible chimpanzee trekking experience.

1. Accommodation: 2 nights at a lodge or camp near Nyungwe National Park (options range from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites).
2. Meals: All meals as per the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
3. Transportation: Round-trip transfers from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park in a comfortable, private vehicle.
4. Park Fees: Includes chimpanzee trekking permits, canopy walkway fees, and park entry fees.
5. Guided Activities: Professional guides for chimpanzee trekking, canopy walkway, and nature walks.
6. Cultural Experience: Visits to local communities for cultural immersion (optional, depending on the itinerary).
7. Drinking Water: Complimentary bottled water during the trip.

1. International Flights: Airfare to and from Rwanda is not included.
2. Visa Fees: Rwanda visa costs are the responsibility of the traveler.
3. Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance, including medical and evacuation coverage, is not included.
4. Tips and Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff are not included and are at the traveler’s discretion.
5. Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, additional snacks, and alcoholic beverages are not included.
6. Optional Activities: Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary, such as additional guided walks or cultural tours, are not included.
7. Accommodation Upgrades: Upgrades to luxury lodges or additional nights are not included unless specified.

• Sturdy hiking boots for trekking.
• Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors.
• Rain jacket or poncho (Nyungwe is a rainforest, and rain is common).
• Binoculars for wildlife and birdwatching.
• Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Insect repellent.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Small backpack for carrying essentials during treks.

The 3-day chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural beauty. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to explore Rwanda beyond its famous mountain gorillas and experience the country’s lesser-known but equally captivating rainforest. By participating in this trip, you also contribute to the conservation of Nyungwe’s chimpanzees and their habitat, ensuring that future generations can enjoy this incredible destination. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Africa, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. From the thrill of tracking chimpanzees to the awe-inspiring views from the canopy walkway, every moment in Nyungwe is filled with wonder and excitement