Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the spectacular hills of southwestern Rwanda. It is the biggest ‘chunk’ of montane forest with unparalleled biodiversity and natural wonders remaining in east and central Africa.
Nyungwe prides in its rich variety of flora and fauna. The forest has over 200 tree species along with hundreds of different flowering plants, including wild begonia, more than 100 species of orchid and giant lobelias. There are over 13 primate species including L’hoest’s monkey, silver monkey, vervet monkey, olive baboon, grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed monkey and the Angola colobus - delightfully acrobatic arboreal monkeys which move in troops.
Nyungwe is also home to more than 500 chimpanzees and 275 bird species. Some of the interesting birds include the spectacular Rwenzori Turaco, the secretive red-chested alethe, several iridescent sunbirds, the perpetually honking giant hornbills that crash through the forest canopy, and the stunning great blue Turaco, an outlandishly blue, red and green bird.
Nyungwe lies at an elevation of between 1,600 meters and 2,950 meters, and enjoys a relatively cool temperature. The forest has an extensive network of well maintained forest trails leads to a number of waterfalls and viewing points.
A spectacular rest house and perfectly situated campsite are located alongside the main road. The reserve can be visited as a day excursion from the towns of Butare and Cyangugu where beautiful hotels are found.
