Ken Barham Guesthouse - Nyungwe National Park

Ken Barham Guesthouse is a guesthouse near Nyungwe National Park.

Location
Nyungwe National Park, Western Rwanda Albertine Rift Forests, Rwanda, East Africa
Coordinates
-2.440203, 29.089699
Activities
guesthouse

PlnrScore: 28/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

658 species observed within 20 km, 27 mammals, 152 birds.

  • L'Hoest's Monkey (Mammalia, 81 observations)
  • Blue Monkey (Mammalia, 54 observations)
  • Impatiens stuhlmannii (Plantae, 44 observations)
  • Impatiens bequaertii (Plantae, 40 observations)
  • Angola Colobus (Mammalia, 35 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 Ken Barham Guesthouse

The best months to visit Ken Barham Guesthouse 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 is the best way to get to Ken Barham Guesthouse from Kigali, and what should we expect on the journey?

We recommend hiring a private driver for the scenic, albeit long, drive from Kigali. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, winding through Rwanda's stunning hills. Expect to see vibrant local life and incredible landscapes, but be prepared for some bumpy sections as you get closer to Nyungwe.

Beyond Nyungwe's famous chimpanzees, what other wildlife can we realistically hope to see near Ken Barham Guesthouse?

While chimps are the main draw, we love the incredible birdlife around the guesthouse itself. Keep an eye out for various endemic species, and don't be surprised by colobus monkeys often seen in the nearby forest canopy. The surrounding area offers a rich biodiversity that often surprises even seasoned visitors.

What are the accommodation and dining like at Ken Barham Guesthouse, and is it suitable for a comfortable stay?

The guesthouse offers a charmingly rustic yet comfortable experience. We found the rooms clean and cozy, perfect for unwinding after a day of trekking. The home cooked meals are hearty and delicious, providing a true taste of Rwandan hospitality that feels both authentic and satisfying.

Considering its proximity to Nyungwe, what's the ideal time of year for us to plan a visit to Ken Barham Guesthouse?

We find the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, offer the most pleasant trekking conditions in Nyungwe. While it can still rain, these periods generally mean clearer trails and better visibility for wildlife spotting. Even in the wetter months, the forest is lush and the experience remains rewarding.

What are the typical costs associated with staying at Ken Barham Guesthouse and accessing activities in Nyungwe?

Ken Barham Guesthouse itself is quite reasonably priced, offering excellent value. The main additional cost will be park entry fees and permits for activities like chimpanzee trekking within Nyungwe National Park. We advise budgeting for these separately, as they are set by the park authorities and can vary.

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