Safari tour pricing varies based on departure date, group size, and accommodation preferences.

Presented below are popular accommodation options for your journey, ranging from budget to luxury. Meals are provided on a Full Board basis unless otherwise specified.

Click to learn more about accommodation options in Nyungwe.

A comprehensive list of inclusions is provided below. Additional accommodation options and add-on excursions are available upon request. Please share your specific requirements by clicking the "Request Quote" button, and our reservations team will respond promptly.

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park requires a permit. Permit costs are as follows :

Permit Inclusions:

• One hour with the chimpanzees once located

• Services of a knowledgeable park guide

• Security from armed park rangers

Important Notes:

• Permits must be booked in advance 

• Groups are limited to a maximum of 8 trekkers 

• The minimum age for chimpanzee trekking is 15 years 

• Park entrance fees are NOT included in the permit cost 

Nyungwe National Park entrance fees are additional costs :

Detailed Itinerary

Your adventure begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Kigali or Kigali International Airport. You'll depart for Nyungwe National Park, located in Rwanda's southwestern province, approximately 225 km from Kigali .

The scenic drive takes approximately 5–6 hours, passing through Rwanda's famous rolling hills, rural villages, and vast tea plantations. Along the way, optional stops can be made at local markets, cultural villages, and scenic viewpoints .

Upon arrival at Nyungwe, you'll settle into your chosen accommodation. In the afternoon, you'll experience the famous Nyungwe Canopy Walk – an exhilarating suspended bridge hanging approximately 50 meters above the forest floor. The bridge stretches over 160 meters across a lush valley, offering panoramic views of the rainforest canopy and glimpses of wildlife below .

Optional: Depending on arrival time, a short nature walk or tea plantation visit can be arranged .

This is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters at Uwinka for a detailed chimpanzee trekking briefing from park rangers .

Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

Accompanied by expert park rangers and trackers, you'll enter the dense rainforest in search of a habituated chimpanzee community . Nyungwe Forest is home to approximately 500 chimpanzees, including two habituated troops . The trek can last 2–5 hours depending on the movement of the chimps .

Along the way, you may encounter :

• Black-and-white colobus monkeys

• L'Hoest's monkeys

• Grey-cheeked mangabeys

• Colorful bird species

• Ancient trees and medicinal plants

Once the chimpanzees are located, you'll enjoy a magical one-hour observation period, watching them interact, groom, communicate, and move through the forest canopy .

Afternoon Activities

After lunch and rest, you have options :

1. Nyungwe Canopy Walk (if not done on Day 1)

2. Nature walk around the lodge

3. Tea plantation visit

After breakfast, enjoy your final activity in Nyungwe National Park. Depending on your interests and fitness level, you may choose one of the following :

Option 1: Isumo Waterfall Hike

This is Nyungwe's most scenic hike, leading through thick forest to a powerful waterfall hidden deep in the park. The trail offers rich biodiversity, birdlife, and stunning photography opportunities .

Option 2: Guided Nature & Birding Walk

Ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, this walk focuses on forest ecology, medicinal plants, butterflies, and bird species unique to the Albertine Rift .

Option 3: Additional Chimpanzee Trekking

For those wanting another chance to see the chimps, a second trek can be arranged (subject to permit availability and additional cost).

After your chosen activity, depart Nyungwe and drive back to Kigali, arriving in the late afternoon. Drop-off can be arranged at your hotel or Kigali International Airport .

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park is available year-round. However, the best conditions are during the dry seasons :

• June – September

• December – February

During dry seasons, trails are less slippery and chimps are more active. During rainy months, 4×4 vehicles are strongly recommended due to muddy roads and steep terrain .

• Valid passport and chimpanzee permit

• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (neutral colors recommended)

• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots

• Rain jacket or poncho

• Face masks (required for primate trekking)

• Insect repellent

• Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses

• Daypack for water, snacks, and camera (no flash photography)

• Personal medication 

Nyungwe National Park is best accessed by road from Kigali. Options include :

• ✓ Chimpanzee trekking permit (Nyungwe Forest National Park)

• ✓ Park ranger and professional guide services

• ✓ Nyungwe Canopy Walk permit (where applicable)

• ✓ All ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle

• ✓ Full-board accommodation as per itinerary

• ✓ Bottled drinking water during transfers and activities

• ✓ All park entry fees

• ✓ Hotel pickup and drop-off

• ✗ International flights

• ✗ Rwanda visa fees

• ✗ Travel insurance

• ✗ Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.)

• ✗ Tips for guides and lodge staff

• ✗ Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary