Best time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park – Travel Guide

The best time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park has always been a topic of contemplation by intending safari goers. Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Rwanda’s most popular destinations and the prime Chimpanzee tracking destination set within the forested hills of South-western Rwanda bordering Burundi and approximately 225 kilometers/4-5 hours’ drive from the Capital (Kigali).

Nyungwe Forest was declared a National Park in 2005 and currently covers a total area of 1020 square kilometers. Nyungwe Forest National Park lies in an area with an altitude of 1600-2950 meters (5600-9700 feet) above sea level, receives rainfall of 1800-2500 millimeters per annum as well as average daytime temperatures of up to 15.5 Celsius degrees. The    Park boasts of a rich biodiversity including over 75 mammal species such as 13 species of primates including chimpanzees (mankind’s closest relatives), more than 300 species of birds, trees and outstanding butterfly species.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is open for visitation all year round although the drier months of January, February, June, July, August, September, and December are the most preferred because, during these months, the trails are less wet and slippery in addition to vegetation being less thick hence making hiking easier and tourists experience limited interruptions from rainfall while undertaking activities. The drier months also a favorite number of activities that include nature walks as well as the breathtaking canopy walks.

The wetter months of March, April, May, October, and November are often avoided because hiking trails tend to be wet, slippery and vegetation thicker making hiking slightly difficult. Nonetheless, some activities such as birding are best done during the wet season because breeding usually takes place in the rainy season and migratory bird species are common at such a time. Also due to the plenty of food/vegetation during the wet season, most primates rarely move to long distances because food is easily accessible hence making activities such as chimpanzee tracking and Colobus monkey tracking a lot easier.

Tourists need to however note that Nyungwe Forest is generally a Tropical Rain forest; hence it can experience rainfall at any anytime of the year even in the dry season. Tourists visiting Nyungwe Forest National Park are therefore advised to be prepared at all times by carrying backpack and rain jacket among other important requirements.

Where to stay when visiting Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park has relatively fewer accommodation facilities but the available ones offer an exquisite and comfortable stay in the jungles. Tourists can book with Nyungwe Forest Lodge (luxury), Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel (mid-range) or Gisakura Guesthouse for the budget.