Best time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park Rwanda

What is the best time to visit Nyungwe National Park Rwanda? Nyungwe Forest National Park is located on the south-western side of Rwanda and covers 1019 square kilometers. It is mostly forested and is bounded to the west by the Congo River Basin and to the east by the Nile River Basin. The Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to over 275 bird species, including endangered Albertine endemics such as the Grauers warbler and Kungwe appalis, making the Rwanda safari experience that much more interesting. Nyungwe National Park receives plenty of rain throughout the year. This, combined with the high altitudes, means that the climate is very wet and cool. Due to the forest’s close proximity to the equator, temperatures stay constant year-round. During the day, temperatures are around 20°C (68°F) and it cools off at night to about 11°C (52°F).

June to September, are the driest months of the year. This is an excellent time for hiking as the trails are drier. Daytime temperatures average 19°C (66°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F) at night. Therefore, the Best time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park.  Visitors Nyungwe Forest National Park is during the dry months, typically from June to September, when the weather is clear and rains is less frequent. this period offers ideal conditions for safaris, as the limited rain help prevent disruptions to activities and allows for better wildlife viewing. during the dry seasons, chimpanzees tend to feed nearby due to scarcity of food, providing opportunities for closer observation. Additionally, the dry months coincide with bird breeding seasons, making it an excellent time for birdwatching. However, the wet season also has its advantages, especially for bird enthusiasts, as many species are more active and visible, moving freely through the trees.

Frequently asked questions about Nyungwe Forest National Park safaris

What is the age limit for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park?

The age limit for Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park is restricted to those over the age of 12.  This restriction is in place due to the park’s challenging terrain, which includes valleys and ridges that require a certain level of physical endurance to navigate.  Visitors need to be sufficiently mature to handle the rugged topography and the physical demands of the trek, especially since chimpanzees are contently moving over long distances and can be difficult to flow.  Consequently, individuals under 12 find it difficult to trek through the park’s terrains and to keep up with the chimpanzees during the excursion.

How to get to Nyungwe National Park

Getting to Nyungwe National Park can be achieved either by road or by air. If traveling by road, the journey from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, takes approximately five hours. During this trip, visitors have the opportunity to make several stopovers at notable destinations such as Nyinza Place in Nyabisindu, known for being the former residence of Rwanda’s king. Additional stopover options include the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial and the national museum, among others.

Alternatively, visitors can reach Nyungwe National Park by air. This involves making prior arrangements and booking flights with Rwanda Air, which operates flights from Kigali International Airport to Nyungwe Park.

What are the instructions, or dos and don’ts, of Nyungwe Forest National Park?

When visiting Nyungwe Forest National Park, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure a respectful and safe experience. Here are some key dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

• Limit you time with the chimpanzees to one hour to allow then to continue their activities undisturbed.
• Do not surround the chimpanzees, as this can make them feel threatened or ambushed
• Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing to prevent the spread of any illnesses to them. Before going chimpanzee trekking, offer to stay behind in case you contract any contagious diseases like the flu, COVID-19, or other diseases such as Ebola.
• Refrain from feeding the Chimpanzees since they area wild animals that must find their own food.
• Do not spit on vegetation as it serves as food for the forest’s primates,
• Properly dispose of waste by digging a hole about 30 meters deep and covering it completely if you need to relieve yourself. Avoid throwing wrappers or other litter in the forest to prevent environmental damage.
• Avoid eating or smoking in the presence of the chimpanzees. Although they might be tempted to take it, they are wild animals and must find their own food.

What can I pack for a Nyungwe National Park safari?

Since Rwanda features a hilly and often chilly climate, most safari activities there involves hiking. Therefore, it is essential to come prepared with the right equipment to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in Nyungwe Forest National Park. As a traveler, consider packing the following items for your Nyungwe forest safari:

• Hiking boots: Ideal for navigating moist and slippery ground, helping you move more easily up slopes.
• You need to pack a set of binoculars, useful for getting a clearer view of distant sights like birds, monkeys, chimpanzees, and others.
• Insect repellents: Important for protecting your body from the stinging insects that are active throughout the forest.
• Garden gloves: Helpful for maintaining a good grip on the creepers during the trek, especially when searching for chimpanzees.
• Water bottle: To stay hydrated during the strenuous forest hikes.
• Toiletries: Carry personal hygiene items in case you need them during your safari.
• Warm rainproof clothing: Including ponchos, to stay dry and warm, especially during the rainy season.
• Small, water-resistant bag: To keep your belongings dry and organized in wet conditions because there are biting insects in the forest that could harm your skin.
• Long-sleeved shirts and pants:  To keep your skin from biting insects.
• Camera with a fully charged backup battery: To capture your moments in Nyungwe and ensure you don’t run out of power.
• Cash in local currency: For purchases, tips, hiring a porter, or souvenirs.

Where can I stay in Nyungwe Forest National Park Rwanda?

For lodging in Nyungwe Forest National Park, options range from luxurious to budget-friendly, both inside and outside the park. Choose from a variety of hotels, guest houses, and lodges, categorized as luxury, moderate, or budget-friendly. Examples include the One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hotel, Nyungwe Eco Village, Chimpanzee Lodge, Eben Lake Kivu Cottages and Villas, Maravilla Kivu Eco Lodge, Emerauda Kivu Resort, Gisakura Guest House, Comoran Lodge, and Nyungwe Nziza Eco-Lodge lodges among others

What are the safari activities to do in Nyungwe National Park?

There are several safari activities that are conducted in Nyungwe National Park, and these activities includes canopy walk, nature walk or trail hike, Chimpanzee trekking, camping safari, bird watching and exploring waterfalls in Nyungwe National Park