3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Nyungwe Rwanda

3 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda

This 3-day chimpanzee trekking safari takes you to Nyungwe National Park, a vast and ancient montane rainforest in southern Rwanda. Beginning and ending in Kigali, the capital city, this journey offers an exceptional chance to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat while also exploring the park’s incredible biodiversity.

Nyungwe Forest is one of Africa’s richest ecosystems, home to 13 primate species including chimpanzees, large troops of Rwenzori colobus, and several other rare monkeys. The forest also hosts more than 300 bird species, 1,000 plant species, and a dazzling variety of orchids and butterflies. Its canopy walk, the first of its kind in East Africa, provides breathtaking views of the rainforest from above.

This itinerary combines primate tracking, bird watching, and immersive nature experiences, making it an unforgettable adventure for wildlife enthusiasts.

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Nyungwe Forest

Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be welcomed by your professional safari guide. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short city tour of Kigali, visiting landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, vibrant local markets, or the craft centers before departing for Nyungwe.

Your drive south will take you through Rwanda’s rolling hills, tea plantations, and beautiful countryside. Along the way, you can stop at cultural or historical sites such as the King’s Palace in Nyanza or the Ethnographic Museum in Huye, which provide a deeper insight into Rwanda’s history and traditions.

Arrive in Nyungwe in the evening and check into your lodge. Relax, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the exciting adventure that awaits the next day.

Accommodation: Nyungwe Forest Lodge or similar (Full Board)

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your chimpanzee trek. Nyungwe Forest is home to one of East Africa’s largest populations of chimpanzees. Trekking can be challenging due to the steep terrain, but the experience of seeing chimps in the wild is truly rewarding.

Guided by experienced park rangers, you will track the chimps through the dense forest. Once you find them, you will spend time observing their fascinating behavior — from grooming and feeding to social interactions. Listening to their loud calls echoing through the forest canopy is an unforgettable experience.

Nyungwe is not only about chimpanzees. During your trek, you may encounter other primates such as:

  • L’Hoest’s monkeys

  • Golden monkeys

  • Angola colobus (often seen in troops of over 300 individuals)

  • Silver monkeys

  • Red-tailed monkeys

  • Olive baboons

  • Grey-cheeked mangabeys

  • Dent’s mona monkeys

  • Hamlyn’s monkeys and more

The forest is also a paradise for birdwatchers. With nearly 300 bird species, including 24 Albertine Rift endemics, Nyungwe offers sightings of spectacular species like the Rwenzori turaco, great blue turaco, paradise flycatcher, and various hornbills.

Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the evening, you can take a nature walk around the lodge or enjoy the tranquility of the forest before dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Nyungwe Forest Lodge or similar (Full Board)

Day 3: Canopy Walk – Transfer Back to Kigali

After breakfast, set out for the famous Nyungwe canopy walk, a suspended bridge high above the forest floor that offers panoramic views of the treetops and valleys. The canopy walk provides a unique perspective on the rainforest ecosystem and is an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and photography.

Later, begin your journey back to Kigali with lunch en route. Depending on your flight schedule, you may proceed directly to the airport for departure or spend another night in Kigali.

This marks the end of your 3-day chimpanzee trekking safari in Nyungwe Forest.

Safari Highlights

  • Trekking to see wild chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest

  • Encountering diverse primate species, including large troops of colobus monkeys

  • Bird-watching with over 300 species, including Albertine Rift endemics

  • Experiencing the breathtaking canopy walk in Nyungwe

  • Scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills and cultural landscapes