Gisakura Family Hostel - Nyungwe National Park

Gisakura Family Hostel is a guesthouse near Nyungwe National Park.

Location
Nyungwe National Park, Western Rwanda Albertine Rift Forests, Rwanda, East Africa
Coordinates
-2.460031, 29.093403
Phone
+250 788 203 748
Website
www.gisakurahostel.com
Activities
guesthouse

PlnrScore: 35/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

663 species observed within 20 km, 27 mammals, 151 birds.

  • L'Hoest's Monkey (Mammalia, 84 observations)
  • Blue Monkey (Mammalia, 54 observations)
  • Impatiens stuhlmannii (Plantae, 44 observations)
  • Impatiens bequaertii (Plantae, 40 observations)
  • Angola Colobus (Mammalia, 37 observations)
  • Congo cockatoo (Plantae, 35 observations)
  • Begonia meyeri-johannis (Plantae, 34 observations)
  • Great Blue Turaco (Aves, 32 observations)
  • Boehm's Bush Squirrel (Mammalia, 32 observations)
  • Purple Vlei Harlequin (Plantae, 31 observations)

Best Time to Visit Gisakura Family Hostel

The best months to visit Gisakura Family Hostel are May, June, July, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 14.24°C, rainfall 308.2mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 82.7%
  • February: Poor, temperature 14.63°C, rainfall 260.6mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 82%
  • March: Poor, temperature 14.7°C, rainfall 297.5mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 82.8%
  • April: Poor, temperature 14.61°C, rainfall 214mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 85.8%
  • May: Good, temperature 14.57°C, rainfall 111.6mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 82.1%
  • June: Good, temperature 13.76°C, rainfall 30.8mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 75.5%
  • July: Good, temperature 13.95°C, rainfall 27.1mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 69.3%
  • August: Good, temperature 14.77°C, rainfall 60.7mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 67.6%
  • September: Good, temperature 14.88°C, rainfall 136mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 73.4%
  • October: Poor, temperature 14.86°C, rainfall 173.6mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 77.3%
  • November: Poor, temperature 14.31°C, rainfall 229.7mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 82.8%
  • December: Poor, temperature 14.16°C, rainfall 271.8mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 84.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the real vibe at Gisakura Family Hostel, and is it truly family friendly?

We found Gisakura Family Hostel to be a charmingly rustic base for exploring Nyungwe. While it’s called a family hostel, we think it’s best suited for adventurous families or groups who prioritize proximity to the park over plush amenities. The common areas are simple but welcoming, perfect for sharing stories after a day of trekking.

Beyond chimpanzee trekking, what other activities can we realistically do from Gisakura Family Hostel?

Nyungwe National Park offers more than just chimps. We highly recommend the canopy walk, an unforgettable experience suspended high above the rainforest floor. You can also explore the park's network of hiking trails, each offering a different perspective on the lush flora and diverse birdlife.

What should we pack for a stay at Gisakura Family Hostel, considering its location near Nyungwe?

Pack for a rainforest environment. We always bring lightweight, quick-drying clothing, a good waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, and insect repellent. Don't forget binoculars for spotting colobus monkeys and birds, and a headlamp is useful for navigating the lodge after dark.

How does Gisakura Family Hostel compare to other accommodation options closer to Nyungwe National Park?

Gisakura Family Hostel offers a more budget-friendly and communal experience compared to the more luxurious lodges. We love its straightforward charm and the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers. If your priority is being right on the doorstep of the park with fewer frills, it’s a solid choice.

What are the dining arrangements like at Gisakura Family Hostel, and can we expect local Rwandan cuisine?

The dining at Gisakura Family Hostel is simple, hearty, and often features local Rwandan dishes. We enjoyed the communal meals, which felt authentic and provided a chance to taste regional flavors. Expect wholesome food prepared with fresh ingredients, perfect for refueling after a day in the jungle.

Other Safari Lodges in Nyungwe National Park

Parks in Western Rwanda Albertine Rift Forests

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Rwanda

Travel advisory for Rwanda