Safari in Nyungwe National Park

    Safari in Nyungwe National Park

    34 safari lodges
    Western Rwanda Albertine Rift Forests, Rwanda
    Moderate
    Malaria: Moderate

    A vast, ancient montane rainforest, Nyungwe is one of Africa's oldest and most biodiverse forests, famous for its chimpanzee trekking. It's home to 13 primate species, including colobus monkeys, L'Hoest's monkeys, and mangabeys, making it a primate enthusiast's dream. The park also boasts an incredible canopy walk, numerous hiking trails, and over 300 bird species, offering a rich experience of rainforest ecology.

    Best timeJune to September (dry season) for gorilla trekking. December to February also good.
    Species
    80
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    34
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Nyungwe National Park Map

    Park location and safari lodges

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    80 species recorded in Nyungwe National Park1 threatened

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    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Nyungwe National Park

    Rwanda offers exceptional safari experiences year-round, but we generally recommend the dry seasons for optimal gorilla trekking conditions. The long dry season from June to September provides the...

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Short Dry Season

    January offers warm, dry weather, making conditions excellent for trekking. Mornings are pleasant, and afternoons are sunny with minimal rainfall.

    Gorilla trekking is superb with drier trails. Akagera National Park is vibrant, with animals congregating around water sources, offering fantastic game viewing opportunities.

    We recommend starting the year with a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, as the clear skies provide stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    February

    moderate

    Short Dry Season

    The dry conditions continue through February, with consistently warm temperatures and low humidity. Expect plenty of sunshine, ideal for outdoor activities.

    Wildlife viewing remains excellent across the country. In Nyungwe, chimpanzee tracking is easier on the drier forest floor, and birdlife is abundant.

    This is a fantastic time to combine gorilla trekking with a visit to Akagera for Big Five viewing, as the landscapes are still relatively green but dry.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    March

    moderate

    Long Rains

    March marks the start of the long rainy season, bringing increased rainfall, particularly in the afternoons. Temperatures remain warm, but humidity rises.

    While trails can be muddy, the forest is lush and beautiful for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. Birding is exceptional as migratory birds arrive and resident species are active.

    We find March to be a rewarding month for birdwatchers, especially in Nyungwe Forest, where the vibrant plumage of numerous species is a sight to behold.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    April is typically the wettest month, with heavy, prolonged rains. Trekking conditions are challenging, but the landscape is incredibly green and vibrant.

    Despite the rain, wildlife is active, and the lush vegetation provides ample food. Gorilla and chimpanzee sightings are still consistent, and birding is at its peak.

    For those seeking solitude and lower permit costs, April offers a unique, intimate experience with the gorillas amidst the incredibly verdant forest.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Gishwati-Mukura National Park

    May

    low

    Long Rains

    Rainfall begins to decrease towards the end of May, though showers are still common. The air is fresh, and the scenery is spectacularly green and rejuvenated.

    The forests are incredibly lush, making for stunning photographic opportunities. Predator activity in Akagera can be good as prey animals are spread out.

    We love May for its dramatic skies and vibrant landscapes, making it an ideal time for photographers to capture Rwanda's natural beauty.

    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park

    June

    high

    Long Dry Season

    June marks the beginning of the long dry season, with significantly less rain and increasingly sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant, and humidity drops.

    Trekking conditions improve dramatically, making gorilla and chimpanzee tracking more comfortable. Game viewing in Akagera becomes excellent as water sources diminish.

    This is one of our favorite months for gorilla trekking, as the trails are drier and the weather is consistently clear, offering superb visibility.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    July

    peak

    Long Dry Season

    July is a prime dry season month, characterized by abundant sunshine, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures. It's ideal for all safari activities.

    Gorilla families are often easier to locate as they range less widely. In Akagera, animals gather around the lakes and rivers, providing spectacular viewing.

    We highly recommend July for a classic Rwandan safari experience, combining the thrill of gorilla trekking with exceptional game drives in Akagera.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    August

    peak

    Long Dry Season

    August continues the dry season trend, with consistently warm, sunny weather and very little rain. Conditions are perfect for trekking and game viewing.

    This is a fantastic time for all wildlife encounters. The dry conditions mean animals are more concentrated, and the forest undergrowth is less dense for tracking.

    For guaranteed dry trails and excellent visibility, August is an unbeatable choice for both gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    September

    high

    Long Dry Season

    The dry season begins to transition in September, with a slight increase in humidity but still predominantly sunny and warm days. Occasional short showers may occur.

    Wildlife remains very active, and the slightly greener landscapes offer a beautiful contrast to the peak dry months. Birding starts to pick up as migratory species return.

    We find September to be a wonderful balance, offering excellent wildlife viewing with slightly fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    October marks the beginning of the short rainy season, bringing afternoon showers and a return of lush greenery. Mornings are generally clear and pleasant.

    The forests become incredibly vibrant, and birding is exceptional. Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking is still very rewarding, despite the occasional rain.

    We recommend October for those who appreciate lush, green landscapes and vibrant birdlife, as the country truly comes alive after the dry season.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park

    November

    moderate

    Short Rains

    Rainfall continues through November, often in the form of short, heavy downpours. The air is fresh, and the country is beautifully green and fertile.

    This is a fantastic month for birding, with many migratory species present. The forest primates are active, and the lush vegetation provides ample food sources.

    For a truly immersive forest experience and unparalleled birdwatching, November in Nyungwe Forest National Park is an absolute gem.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Gishwati-Mukura National Park

    December

    peak

    Short Dry Season

    December transitions into a short dry season, with decreasing rainfall and more sunny days, especially towards the end of the month. Temperatures are warm and comfortable.

    Trekking conditions improve significantly, making it an excellent time for gorilla and chimpanzee encounters. Akagera offers good game viewing as animals begin to concentrate.

    We find December, particularly the latter half, to be a wonderful time for a festive safari, combining excellent wildlife viewing with a celebratory atmosphere.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Short Dry Season

    January offers warm, dry weather, making conditions excellent for trekking. Mornings are pleasant, and afternoons are sunny with minimal rainfall.

    Gorilla trekking is superb with drier trails. Akagera National Park is vibrant, with animals congregating around water sources, offering fantastic game viewing opportunities.

    We recommend starting the year with a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, as the clear skies provide stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    February

    moderate

    Short Dry Season

    The dry conditions continue through February, with consistently warm temperatures and low humidity. Expect plenty of sunshine, ideal for outdoor activities.

    Wildlife viewing remains excellent across the country. In Nyungwe, chimpanzee tracking is easier on the drier forest floor, and birdlife is abundant.

    This is a fantastic time to combine gorilla trekking with a visit to Akagera for Big Five viewing, as the landscapes are still relatively green but dry.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    March

    moderate

    Long Rains

    March marks the start of the long rainy season, bringing increased rainfall, particularly in the afternoons. Temperatures remain warm, but humidity rises.

    While trails can be muddy, the forest is lush and beautiful for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. Birding is exceptional as migratory birds arrive and resident species are active.

    We find March to be a rewarding month for birdwatchers, especially in Nyungwe Forest, where the vibrant plumage of numerous species is a sight to behold.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    April is typically the wettest month, with heavy, prolonged rains. Trekking conditions are challenging, but the landscape is incredibly green and vibrant.

    Despite the rain, wildlife is active, and the lush vegetation provides ample food. Gorilla and chimpanzee sightings are still consistent, and birding is at its peak.

    For those seeking solitude and lower permit costs, April offers a unique, intimate experience with the gorillas amidst the incredibly verdant forest.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Gishwati-Mukura National Park

    May

    low

    Long Rains

    Rainfall begins to decrease towards the end of May, though showers are still common. The air is fresh, and the scenery is spectacularly green and rejuvenated.

    The forests are incredibly lush, making for stunning photographic opportunities. Predator activity in Akagera can be good as prey animals are spread out.

    We love May for its dramatic skies and vibrant landscapes, making it an ideal time for photographers to capture Rwanda's natural beauty.

    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park

    June

    high

    Long Dry Season

    June marks the beginning of the long dry season, with significantly less rain and increasingly sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant, and humidity drops.

    Trekking conditions improve dramatically, making gorilla and chimpanzee tracking more comfortable. Game viewing in Akagera becomes excellent as water sources diminish.

    This is one of our favorite months for gorilla trekking, as the trails are drier and the weather is consistently clear, offering superb visibility.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    July

    peak

    Long Dry Season

    July is a prime dry season month, characterized by abundant sunshine, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures. It's ideal for all safari activities.

    Gorilla families are often easier to locate as they range less widely. In Akagera, animals gather around the lakes and rivers, providing spectacular viewing.

    We highly recommend July for a classic Rwandan safari experience, combining the thrill of gorilla trekking with exceptional game drives in Akagera.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    August

    peak

    Long Dry Season

    August continues the dry season trend, with consistently warm, sunny weather and very little rain. Conditions are perfect for trekking and game viewing.

    This is a fantastic time for all wildlife encounters. The dry conditions mean animals are more concentrated, and the forest undergrowth is less dense for tracking.

    For guaranteed dry trails and excellent visibility, August is an unbeatable choice for both gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    September

    high

    Long Dry Season

    The dry season begins to transition in September, with a slight increase in humidity but still predominantly sunny and warm days. Occasional short showers may occur.

    Wildlife remains very active, and the slightly greener landscapes offer a beautiful contrast to the peak dry months. Birding starts to pick up as migratory species return.

    We find September to be a wonderful balance, offering excellent wildlife viewing with slightly fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    October marks the beginning of the short rainy season, bringing afternoon showers and a return of lush greenery. Mornings are generally clear and pleasant.

    The forests become incredibly vibrant, and birding is exceptional. Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking is still very rewarding, despite the occasional rain.

    We recommend October for those who appreciate lush, green landscapes and vibrant birdlife, as the country truly comes alive after the dry season.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park

    November

    moderate

    Short Rains

    Rainfall continues through November, often in the form of short, heavy downpours. The air is fresh, and the country is beautifully green and fertile.

    This is a fantastic month for birding, with many migratory species present. The forest primates are active, and the lush vegetation provides ample food sources.

    For a truly immersive forest experience and unparalleled birdwatching, November in Nyungwe Forest National Park is an absolute gem.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Gishwati-Mukura National Park

    December

    peak

    Short Dry Season

    December transitions into a short dry season, with decreasing rainfall and more sunny days, especially towards the end of the month. Temperatures are warm and comfortable.

    Trekking conditions improve significantly, making it an excellent time for gorilla and chimpanzee encounters. Akagera offers good game viewing as animals begin to concentrate.

    We find December, particularly the latter half, to be a wonderful time for a festive safari, combining excellent wildlife viewing with a celebratory atmosphere.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Short Dry Season

    January offers warm, dry weather, making conditions excellent for trekking. Mornings are pleasant, and afternoons are sunny with minimal rainfall.

    Gorilla trekking is superb with drier trails. Akagera National Park is vibrant, with animals congregating around water sources, offering fantastic game viewing opportunities.

    We recommend starting the year with a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park, as the clear skies provide stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    February

    moderate

    Short Dry Season

    The dry conditions continue through February, with consistently warm temperatures and low humidity. Expect plenty of sunshine, ideal for outdoor activities.

    Wildlife viewing remains excellent across the country. In Nyungwe, chimpanzee tracking is easier on the drier forest floor, and birdlife is abundant.

    This is a fantastic time to combine gorilla trekking with a visit to Akagera for Big Five viewing, as the landscapes are still relatively green but dry.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    March

    moderate

    Long Rains

    March marks the start of the long rainy season, bringing increased rainfall, particularly in the afternoons. Temperatures remain warm, but humidity rises.

    While trails can be muddy, the forest is lush and beautiful for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. Birding is exceptional as migratory birds arrive and resident species are active.

    We find March to be a rewarding month for birdwatchers, especially in Nyungwe Forest, where the vibrant plumage of numerous species is a sight to behold.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    April is typically the wettest month, with heavy, prolonged rains. Trekking conditions are challenging, but the landscape is incredibly green and vibrant.

    Despite the rain, wildlife is active, and the lush vegetation provides ample food. Gorilla and chimpanzee sightings are still consistent, and birding is at its peak.

    For those seeking solitude and lower permit costs, April offers a unique, intimate experience with the gorillas amidst the incredibly verdant forest.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Gishwati-Mukura National Park

    May

    low

    Long Rains

    Rainfall begins to decrease towards the end of May, though showers are still common. The air is fresh, and the scenery is spectacularly green and rejuvenated.

    The forests are incredibly lush, making for stunning photographic opportunities. Predator activity in Akagera can be good as prey animals are spread out.

    We love May for its dramatic skies and vibrant landscapes, making it an ideal time for photographers to capture Rwanda's natural beauty.

    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park

    June

    high

    Long Dry Season

    June marks the beginning of the long dry season, with significantly less rain and increasingly sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant, and humidity drops.

    Trekking conditions improve dramatically, making gorilla and chimpanzee tracking more comfortable. Game viewing in Akagera becomes excellent as water sources diminish.

    This is one of our favorite months for gorilla trekking, as the trails are drier and the weather is consistently clear, offering superb visibility.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    July

    peak

    Long Dry Season

    July is a prime dry season month, characterized by abundant sunshine, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures. It's ideal for all safari activities.

    Gorilla families are often easier to locate as they range less widely. In Akagera, animals gather around the lakes and rivers, providing spectacular viewing.

    We highly recommend July for a classic Rwandan safari experience, combining the thrill of gorilla trekking with exceptional game drives in Akagera.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    August

    peak

    Long Dry Season

    August continues the dry season trend, with consistently warm, sunny weather and very little rain. Conditions are perfect for trekking and game viewing.

    This is a fantastic time for all wildlife encounters. The dry conditions mean animals are more concentrated, and the forest undergrowth is less dense for tracking.

    For guaranteed dry trails and excellent visibility, August is an unbeatable choice for both gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    September

    high

    Long Dry Season

    The dry season begins to transition in September, with a slight increase in humidity but still predominantly sunny and warm days. Occasional short showers may occur.

    Wildlife remains very active, and the slightly greener landscapes offer a beautiful contrast to the peak dry months. Birding starts to pick up as migratory species return.

    We find September to be a wonderful balance, offering excellent wildlife viewing with slightly fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    October marks the beginning of the short rainy season, bringing afternoon showers and a return of lush greenery. Mornings are generally clear and pleasant.

    The forests become incredibly vibrant, and birding is exceptional. Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking is still very rewarding, despite the occasional rain.

    We recommend October for those who appreciate lush, green landscapes and vibrant birdlife, as the country truly comes alive after the dry season.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park

    November

    moderate

    Short Rains

    Rainfall continues through November, often in the form of short, heavy downpours. The air is fresh, and the country is beautifully green and fertile.

    This is a fantastic month for birding, with many migratory species present. The forest primates are active, and the lush vegetation provides ample food sources.

    For a truly immersive forest experience and unparalleled birdwatching, November in Nyungwe Forest National Park is an absolute gem.

    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Volcanoes National Park
    Gishwati-Mukura National Park

    December

    peak

    Short Dry Season

    December transitions into a short dry season, with decreasing rainfall and more sunny days, especially towards the end of the month. Temperatures are warm and comfortable.

    Trekking conditions improve significantly, making it an excellent time for gorilla and chimpanzee encounters. Akagera offers good game viewing as animals begin to concentrate.

    We find December, particularly the latter half, to be a wonderful time for a festive safari, combining excellent wildlife viewing with a celebratory atmosphere.

    Volcanoes National Park
    Akagera National Park
    Nyungwe Forest National Park
    Planning & reference

    Nyungwe offers an immersive journey into one of Africa's oldest and most biodiverse rainforests. We love the thrill of tracking chimpanzees through the dense undergrowth and the exhilarating perspective from the canopy walkway, which truly makes you feel part of this ancient, living ecosystem.

    Gate Times

    Nyungwe National Park generally opens its gates for activities around 06:00 and closes by 17:00. However, specific activities like chimpanzee trekking commence much earlier, often requiring visitors to be at the designated briefing point by 05:00-05:30. We strongly recommend booking all permits, especially for chimpanzee trekking and the canopy walk, several months in advance through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or a reputable tour operator, as daily visitor numbers are strictly limited to protect the fragile ecosystem.

    Tipping

    Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service. For your lead guide on a full-day chimpanzee trek or forest walk, we recommend $15-20 per person. Trackers and porters, who work incredibly hard, typically receive $5-10 each. For lodge staff, a communal tip box is often available, and we suggest contributing around $5-10 per guest per day, which is then distributed fairly among all staff. Always tip in Rwandan Francs or US Dollars, and present it discreetly.

    Dress Code

    Given Nyungwe's rainforest environment, waterproofs are non-negotiable. We always pack sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with excellent grip, long trousers and long-sleeved shirts to protect against scratches, stinging nettles, and insects. Earthy, muted colours are best to avoid startling wildlife. Layers are essential, as mornings can be cool and damp, warming up significantly during the day, especially on the canopy walk. A wide-brimmed hat is useful for sun protection in more open areas.

    Photography

    The dense forest canopy means low light conditions, so we recommend a camera with good ISO performance and a fast lens. Flash photography is strictly prohibited during primate encounters, as it can distress the animals. Drones are generally not permitted without special, pre-approved permits from RDB, which are rarely granted for recreational use. For great shots, be patient, use a high shutter speed to capture moving primates, and embrace the challenge of the dappled light.

    Etiquette

    During primate treks, absolute quiet is paramount; we always move slowly and speak in hushed tones to avoid disturbing the chimpanzees or monkeys. Maintaining the prescribed distance from wildlife, typically 7-10 meters, is crucial, and never attempt to feed or approach animals. Stay on marked trails and follow your guide's instructions at all times. In camp, respect other guests' privacy and quiet hours, especially in the early mornings and evenings.

    What to Bring

    Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support
    Waterproof rain jacket and trousers
    Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers (quick-drying material)
    Insect repellent (containing DEET or picaridin)
    Small daypack for water, snacks, and camera gear
    Binoculars for spotting distant wildlife
    Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
    Gardening gloves for gripping vines and branches
    Reusable water bottle (at least 2 litres capacity)
    Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat
    Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
    Malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor)

    Temperature

    14.24°C

    58°F · Range: 10.7–18.51°C

    Rainfall

    308.2 mm

    Heavy rains · 25 rainy days

    Humidity

    82.7%

    Sunshine

    9.1 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    2.97 m/s

    10.7 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Nyungwe National Park Reviews