This newly established park seems to be a hidden treasure. It has not been around for long, but its beauty has yet to be fully discovered by tourists who visit this park on their safaris.
While primates are the main attraction throughout the year, there are many other activities tourists can enjoy in the park.
Tourist Attractions in Gishwati-Mukura National Park
- Chimpanzees: Chimpanzees are the stars of primate tracking in the park. Unlike gorillas, they are easier to spot in the forest as they swing and jump through the trees. Tourists don’t need to hike steep hills to find them. With 20 groups of chimpanzees living alongside golden monkeys, the park showcases incredible diversity.
- Golden Monkeys: The park offers a rare chance to see golden monkeys, which are as unique as gold. From October to May, during the wet season, food is abundant, and the monkeys don’t move far. This is the best time for tourists to visit and enjoy an unforgettable adventure they’ll always remember.
- Other Primates: The park’s beauty isn’t just about golden monkeys and chimpanzees. Other primates, like blue monkeys, olive baboons, white and black colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys, add color and vibrancy to the park.
- Waterfalls: The rushing sounds of waterfalls bring joy to visitors, while the cool forest breeze refreshes them. The Kazeneza Waterfalls, located in the center of the park, is a must-see. Its sparkling water cascading down creates a magical experience.
- Birds: The forest comes alive with the songs of over 83 bird species, including those unique to the Albertine Rift. Martial eagles, regal sunbirds, Rwenzori turacos, and weaver birds are among the most commonly spotted in the park.
- Flora Diversity: The park’s beauty is enriched by over 60 plant species, ranging from emerald green to light green. Hidden treasures like chameleons, butterflies, insects, and birds live among the ferns, bamboo, eucalyptus, mahogany, orchids, and other tree species, delighting visitors with their natural charm.
When to Visit the Park?
Rwanda, known as the cleanest country and the land of a thousand hills, welcomes visitors all year round. However, the dry seasons are best for activities like chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest.
The wet months, from October to May, are ideal for spotting golden monkeys and other primates.
Activities to Enjoy in the Park
- Forest Hikes and Nature Walks: Walking through the forest allows tourists to discover hidden wonders like chameleons crawling on branches, insects chirping on leaves, colorful butterflies, and various primates. A four-hour hike leads to the Kazeneza Waterfalls. Other exciting trails include the Umushwati Trail and Matyazo Hill Trail, which offer hiking experiences in Rwanda.
- Bird Watching: With 83 bird species, including 15 unique to the Albertine Rift, bird lovers can enjoy spotting fascinating birds like the grey crowned crane, Rwenzori batis, martial eagle, and wood hoopoes. Guides are helpful in finding the best birdwatching spots.
- Primate Trekking: This is the park’s most popular activity. Visitors can see chimpanzees, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, baboons, and other primates, making it a truly rewarding experience.
- Community Tours: A nature walk can be combined with a visit to nearby villages for a Rwandan cultural experience. Tourists can enjoy traditional Rwandan songs, dances, storytelling, cooking local dishes, and visiting plantations, offering a glimpse into the lives of the locals.
- Biking: A bike ride from Lake Kivu to Nyungwe Forest Park offers amazing views of the Congo Nile Trail near the park. Cycling around the park and along the trail provides both challenges and incredible adventures as tourists explore the hilly terrain.
