Cyamudongo Chimpanzee Trekking and Rwanda National Parks

Uncover Rwanda’s Hidden Gem: Chimpanzee Trekking in Cyamudongo Forest (Plus Why You Should Extend Your Trip to Volcanoes and Akagera National Parks)

Rwanda may be best known for its majestic mountain gorillas, but tucked away in the country’s lush southwestern corner is a lesser-known treasure that completely stole my heart—Cyamudongo Forest. On a recent trip with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, I ventured off the beaten path to explore this ancient rainforest, and it turned out to be one of the most intimate wildlife experiences I’ve ever had.

A Secret Corner of Nyungwe: Why Cyamudongo is Worth the Detour
Cyamudongo Forest is a 19-square-kilometer pocket of biodiversity nestled within the larger Nyungwe National Park. While Nyungwe itself is spectacular, Cyamudongo offers something rare: a quiet, secluded atmosphere with some of the best chances of seeing habituated chimpanzees up close. The compact forest size means less trekking time and more time observing these fascinating creatures.

Our day started early with a briefing by experienced guides who clearly love what they do. After a short but invigorating hike through thick, dew-laced vegetation, we heard the telltale rustling of chimpanzees high in the canopy. Before long, we were face-to-face with a family group—mothers nursing infants, juveniles playing, and the dominant males watching us with intelligent, piercing eyes. For a full hour, we stood spellbound.

It’s Not Just About Chimps: Biodiversity and Culture Await

While chimpanzees are the stars of the show, Cyamudongo Forest bursts with life. L’Hoest’s monkeys, vervet monkeys, and dazzling birds like the Ross’s turaco added unexpected joy to our hike. And if you’re a plant lover, keep an eye out for the forest’s rare purple orchid—Polystachya bruechertiae—found only in this region.

Equally memorable was our cultural visit with the Batwa community. Once forest dwellers, the Batwa now share their traditions through storytelling, dance, and demonstrations of ancient hunting techniques. It was a humbling reminder of the human stories tied to these landscapes.

More Than Just a Day Hike: What Else to Do

Cyamudongo offers plenty for a multi-day stay:

  • Chimpanzee Trekking: The highlight—book your permits in advance.
  • Bird Watching: Over 130 species, many of them endemic to the Albertine Rift.
  • Nature Walks: Lush trails full of butterflies, orchids, and dramatic tree canopies.
  • Cultural Visits: Gain deeper insights into traditional Rwandan life.
  • Canopy Walk (Nearby Nyungwe): A thrilling walk 50 meters above the forest floor.

When to Go

The best time to visit is during Rwanda’s dry seasons—June to September and December to February—when trails are clearer and trekking conditions are ideal.

Where to Stay

Though Cyamudongo is remote, there are great nearby options for all budgets:

  • Luxury: One & Only Nyungwe House – stunning views and top-tier service.
  • Mid-Range: Nyungwe Top View Hotel – perched on a ridge with gorgeous panoramas.
  • Budget: Ken Berham Guesthouse or Peace Guesthouse – comfortable and close to the action.

Want More? Extend Your Rwandan Adventure

If you’ve made it all the way to Cyamudongo, don’t stop there. Rwanda is compact, easy to navigate, and bursting with natural wonders.

Volcanoes National Park
Home to the legendary mountain gorillas, this is Rwanda’s crown jewel. A guided gorilla trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—physically demanding but absolutely unforgettable. You can also hike Mount Bisoke, visit Dian Fossey’s research center, or explore local communities around Musanze.

Akagera National Park
For classic African safari vibes, head east to Akagera. This park is home to the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard—as well as giraffes, hippos, zebras, and hundreds of bird species. I recommend a boat safari on Lake Ihema at sunset—pure magic.

Plan with Confidence

“Gorillas, chimpanzees and golden monkeys” 5/5

S2G Tours & Travels Rwanda Gorillas Was an excellent tour operator. The guide/driver Dan was with me the entire eight day trip. He was friendly and helpful and professional and his driving was always safe and careful. He assisted me in going through immigration at the Rwanda/ Uganda border. We were supposed to see gorillas in DRC but with consultation with Aron, the coordinator, it was decided that with the rebels overrunning Goma and getting close to the border, we shouldn’t take a chance of crossing into DRC. Aron was very involved in rearranging the itinerary on the fly, changing to see the gorillas in Uganda instead of DRC and going to a beautiful hotel on a lake with many islands. I saw everything that was promised just not as set out initially but as they say, this is Africa and you must be flexible and adaptable and not rigid and adamant. We spent an hour with a group of mountain gorillas. They were gentle and habitualised to humans. It was magical. Overall it was an excellent eight day tour and S2G Tours & Travels Rwanda provided everything that I wanted.

So why not go beyond the usual tourist trail? Start with Cyamudongo, and let Rwanda’s wild beauty lead you deeper.

Explore Nyungwe National Park | Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Nestled in the misty highlands of southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity and natural beauty. As one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, this lush paradise is bursting with life — from playful chimpanzees to vibrant birds and towering mahoganies. At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we invite you to experience the wild heart of Rwanda through immersive and expertly guided safaris into Nyungwe.

Why Nyungwe Should Be on Your Bucket List
Nyungwe isn’t just another national park — it’s an ecosystem teeming with unique flora and fauna, dramatic landscapes, and meaningful cultural experiences. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a passionate birder, or just looking to connect with nature, Nyungwe offers something unforgettable.

Top Activities to Enjoy in Nyungwe National Park

Here’s what you can look forward to on your adventure with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours:

1. Chimpanzee Trekking

Go deep into the forest with experienced guides to track wild chimpanzees. Watching them swing through the trees or forage on the forest floor is both thrilling and humbling.

2. Canopy Walk Experience

Cross Africa’s highest forest canopy bridge — suspended 70 meters above ground — for sweeping views and a real adrenaline rush.

3. Colobus Monkey Trekking

Spot large troops of Ruwenzori colobus monkeys, often seen in groups of over 300. They’re one of the most iconic primates in the park.

4. Scenic Forest Hikes

With more than 15 hiking trails covering over 130 kilometers, there’s a trail for every level of adventure:

  • Igishigishigi Trail (great canopy views)
  • Isumo Trail (leads to a stunning waterfall)
  • Bigugu Trail (a summit hike with panoramic views)
  • Kamiranzovu Trail (wetlands and crater-like scenery)

5. Bird Watching

Nyungwe is a birder’s paradise, home to more than 300 bird species — including 29 Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori turaco and red-collared babbler.

6. Visit Isumo Waterfall

Hike through thick forest and cross wooden bridges to reach this powerful and picturesque waterfall, tucked in the heart of the park.

7. Cultural Experiences

Learn about the local communities surrounding Nyungwe. Visit tea plantations, enjoy traditional music and dance, and participate in cultural storytelling.

8. Butterfly and Nature Watching

Keep your eyes open for over 100 butterfly species and countless fascinating insects, reptiles, and flowering plants that make Nyungwe so special.

9. Forest Picnics and Photography

Relax at scenic picnic spots or take advantage of the incredible photo opportunities throughout the park — especially on the canopy walkway or at the waterfall.

Best Time to Visit Nyungwe

The best time to explore Nyungwe is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. Trails are easier to navigate, and wildlife viewing is generally more reliable.

How to Get There

Nyungwe is a scenic 5–6 hour drive from Kigali. Safari 2 Gorilla Tours provides private 4×4 transport, knowledgeable guides, and options to combine your Nyungwe trip with other iconic Rwandan destinations like Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu.

Plan Your Nyungwe Safari with Us

We offer flexible itineraries to suit your interests and budget.

Ready to Explore Nyungwe?

Let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours take you into the heart of Rwanda’s most beautiful rainforest. Contact us here today to book your unforgettable Nyungwe safari.