In this article, we’ll explore the entrance fees for Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Rwanda’s most renowned natural reserves. Established in 2004, Nyungwe Forest National Park is a lush, biodiverse destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site, located in southwestern Rwanda. Known for its rich flora and fauna, the park is home to over 1,000 species of plants, birds, and animals, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a premier location for Chimpanzee Tracking, drawing wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. The park spans approximately 1,020 square kilometers and is about a 5-hour drive from Rwanda’s capital city, Kigali, situated near the border of Burundi and Lake Kivu. Apart from chimpanzee trekking, the park offers a variety of other activities that allow visitors to experience the vibrant ecosystems of one of Africa’s oldest rainforests.
Activities at Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a diverse range of activities to suit different interests. Below is a breakdown of the main attractions:
1. Chimpanzee Tracking
One of the most sought-after experiences at Nyungwe Forest is chimpanzee tracking. The park has two habituated chimpanzee groups: the Cyamudongo group located in the Cyamudongo forest and the Uwinka group located around the Uwinka area. The Cyamudongo group consists of about 30 chimpanzees, while the Uwinka group is larger, with approximately 60 chimpanzees. Visitors have a chance to witness these intelligent primates in their natural habitat.
2. Canopy Walk
The Canopy Walk is a thrilling experience that allows visitors to walk among the treetops on a suspended bridge about 60 meters above the ground. This 90-meter-long walkway offers breathtaking views of the forest from above and is a highlight for many tourists.
3. Bird Watching
Nyungwe Forest is home to over 300 bird species, including 29 endemic species found only in the Albertine Rift region. Bird watching in Nyungwe is ideal for bird enthusiasts, offering a chance to spot rare species such as the Red-collared Mountain Babbler and the Grauer’s Rush Warbler.
4. Trail Walking
With over 130 kilometers of trails, Nyungwe Forest provides a wide variety of hiking options that accommodate different fitness levels. Visitors can enjoy tranquil walks while surrounded by the beauty of the forest’s rich ecosystem.
5. Waterfall Hike
The tropical waterfall hike offers visitors a scenic journey through the forest to a majestic waterfall. This guided hike, which starts from Gisakura, takes 3-5 hours and offers spectacular views of the park’s diverse landscape.
6. Camping
For budget travelers, camping in Nyungwe Forest National Park is an affordable option. The park offers tented camping grounds at Uwinka, providing an immersive wilderness experience.
Nyungwe Forest National Park Entrance Fees
Entrance fees at Nyungwe Forest National Park vary depending on the visitor category and the activity chosen. Fees are categorized for foreign non-residents, foreign residents, Rwandan citizens, and East African Community (EAC) nationals. Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees based on the type of activity:
Chimpanzee Tracking Fees
- Foreign Non-residents: $90
- Foreign Residents: $60
- Rwandans: 5,000 Rwf
- EAC Nationals: $10
- EAC Foreign Residents: $60
- Rwandan Students: 2,500 Rwf
- EAC Students: $5
- Foreign Resident Students: $30
Other Primate Tracking Fees
- Foreign Non-residents: $60
- Foreign Residents: $40
- Rwandans: 5,000 Rwf
- EAC Nationals: $10
- EAC Foreign Residents: $40
- Rwandan Students: 1,500 Rwf
- EAC Students: $3
- Foreign Resident Students: $20
Nyungwe Guided Nature Walk Fees
- Foreign Non-residents: $40/person
- Foreign Residents: $30/person
- Rwandans: 3,000 Rwf
- EAC Nationals: $5/person
- EAC Foreign Residents: $30/person
- Rwandan Students: 1,500 Rwf/person
- EAC Students: $3/person
- Foreign Resident Students: $20/person
Bird Watching Fees
- Foreign Non-residents: $50/person
- Foreign Residents: $40/person
- Rwandans: 5,000 Rwf/person
- EAC Nationals: $10/person
- EAC Foreign Residents: $40/person
- Rwandan Students: 2,000 Rwf/person
- EAC Students: $5/person
- Foreign Resident Students: $20/person
Canopy Walk Fees
- Foreign Non-residents: $60/person
- Foreign Residents: $50/person
- Rwandans: 5,000 Rwf/person
- EAC Nationals: $10/person
- EAC Foreign Residents: $50/person
- Rwandan Students: 5,000 Rwf/person
- EAC Students: $5/person
- Foreign Resident Students: $25/person
Waterfall Hike Fees
- Foreign Non-residents: $50/person
- Foreign Residents: $40/person
- Rwandans: 5,000 Rwf/person
- EAC Nationals: $10/person
- EAC Foreign Residents: $40/person
- Rwandan Students: 2,000 Rwf/person
- EAC Students: $5/person
- Foreign Resident Students: $20/person
Congo-Nile Divide Hike Fees
- Foreign Non-residents: $100/person
- Foreign Residents: $70/person
- Rwandans: 10,000 Rwf/person
- EAC Nationals: $20/person
- EAC Foreign Residents: $70/person
- Rwandan Students: 5,000 Rwf/person
- EAC Students: $10/person
- Foreign Resident Students: $35/person
Camping Fees
- With Your Tent: $30/night
- Without Tent: $40/tent/night
Commercial Filming Fees
- Chimpanzees: $1000/group/day
- Other Park Products: $600/group/day
Additional Information
It is important to note that children under 7 years old are exempt from park fees, but children under 16 years of age are not permitted to participate in primate tracking. Graduate students are also required to pay full adult fees, as they are not eligible for student discounts.
For visitors planning to trek chimpanzees, the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to August, when chimpanzees are most active during the mornings. Remember to bring essentials such as binoculars, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots to make the most of your visit.
Accommodation Options
Although Nyungwe Forest National Park does not have in-park hotels, there are several nearby accommodations ranging from luxury to budget-friendly options. Notable choices include the One & Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Forest Lodge, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, and the Gisakura Family Hostel.
Contact Information
- Phone Number: +250-780-870-670
- WhatsApp: +256-781-960-154
- Email: info@nyungweforestnationalpark.org
Nyungwe Forest National Park offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the beauty of nature, with its rich biodiversity and exciting activities. Whether you’re trekking chimpanzees, exploring the canopy, or enjoying a serene nature walk, Nyungwe promises an unforgettable adventure.
