Nyungwe National Park lies in southwest Rwanda, partly abutting the Burundi border. It's a vast area of mountain rainforest, home to many species of chimpanzees, plus owl-faced and colobus monkeys. The Canopy Walkway, part of the Igishigishigi Trail, is a high suspension bridge with views over the valley and surrounding forests. A trail runs to the Kamiranzovu Marsh, with its birdlife, orchids and waterfall.

​

 Nyungwe's steep landscape makes it an ideal destination for hikers – whether novice or experienced – as the park boasts an extensive network of scenic hiking trails:

 

Igishigishigi Trail

​

A comfortable trek for novices, this 2.1 km hike will amaze with its majestic views of the canopy walkway and dazzling wildflowers. The Igishigishigi Trail can also be combined with the longer Imbaraga or Umoyove Trails.

​

Karamba Trail

​

Another relatively easy hike, the Karamba Trail – located on the former site of a gold mine, market and army camp – is considered one of the best spots for birding in Nyungwe as it is flanked by numerous fern trees.

​

Umugote Trail

​

This hike provides marvelous views of numerous ridges, rainforests, stunningly beautiful flowers and on a clear day, the Kibira National Park in Burundi. The trail is also a prime location for primate viewing and birding.

​

Umoyove Trail

​

Also known as the Mahogany Trail, visitors will relax by a waterfall, take a stroll under some of the park’s tallest trees and savor the scent of aromatic leaves during this trek. In addition, the Umuvoye Trail provides access to several side trails used for chimpanzee viewing.

​

Uwinka Trail

​

Although considered a difficult hike, this trail that takes hikers through rather lovely ravines is the perfect place to listen to early morning bird calls.

​

Irebero Trail

​

This trail loops around two of the highest peaks in the park and provides views of Lake Kivu in Rwanda.

 

Imbaraga Trail

​

Geared toward experienced hikers, the trail rewards hikers with the sight of four scenic waterfalls – any of them will be refreshing after trekking a little less than 10 km.

 

Bigugu Trail

​

The highest peak in the park, this trail offers incredible flora and – on a clear day – views of Lake Kivu as well as hills and islands belonging to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

 

Isumo Trail

​

This trail takes hikers through verdant tea fields, steep rainforest ravines, and to top it off, the biggest waterfall in the Nyungwe National Park.

​

Kamiranzovu Trail

​

Water enthusiasts will love this trail it features the park’s largest wetland, an ancient swamp and brilliant waterfalls.

​

Muzimu Trail

​

A relatively easy hike in the remote northeastern part of Rwanda takes hikers through pine and eucalyptus forests.

​

Ngabwe Trail

​

Two paths lead hikers to the summit, which is a lovely picnic and camping site.

 

Rukuzi Trail

​

This exhilarating hike provides outstanding chimpanzee spotting locations as well as views of Banda Village, from where children’s voices carry up the mountainside.