Nyungwe Forest National Park is a prime destination for primates. It is notable for its many numbers of Chimpanzee and several other species that call this home. The conservation area is Rwanda’s largest montane area tucked between its borders with Burundi. It is known to have evolved over time and survived the old ice age era. Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda is one of those dream things to do while in Nyungwe Forest National Park. These can only be met in the park accompanied by other species as the it is home to mere mammal species like the black and white colobus monkeys, olive baboons to mention a few.
Chimpanzee is scientifically categorized to be man’s closet relative sharing up to 98% of the human DNA. They are characterized with distinctive behavior, social intelligent, and with the ability to use tools. They nest in the trees and live in troops of up to 100 members led by a male alpha. Tracking Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park begins in the early morning. It is carried out inside the park and outside in the Cyamudongo forest which has a smaller group of chimps. Visitors assemble at the park headquarters the Uwinka Visitor Center for a morning briefing and through the trails the go looking for the primates. It takes 2-3 hours in search and upon finding them you are allowed an hour to take pictures. Enjoy viewing them as the young stars always seem to be the most playful in the jungle. There are two habituated Chimpanzee troops in the park. They have been made to get used to human presence as they carry on with their daily duties.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda requires one to obtain the Chimpanzee permit. This is bought prior to the tracking time and is presented to the park warden for registration. 150USD is the permit price for foreign non-residents. The activity takes less hours to do as compared to the mountain gorillas so normally the best thing to do is involve in other activities like the canopy walk in the forest. It is the only place in East Africa you do this activity. The long suspended bridge cuts across the forest with magnificent views of the forest. It is possible to view many primate species from the above and the forest at large.
Tracking black and white Colobus Monkeys. There are many troops of these monkeys imagine meeting over 100 creatures all tucked in black md white! The look is the most beautiful thing you can ever meet on your adventures. Guided Nature walks in the forest are led by the park rangers to be sure of safety and guest information. You will need to come with; rain gear, water proof boots, hand gloves, long sleeved shirts and trousers, insect repellent, and any other items of personal nature.
The park can be visited all throughout the year but best during the dry seasons of Rwanda where the trails are less tiring, less slippery and have got easy accessibility. Nyungwe is approximately 6 hours drive from the Kigali City. There is available accommodation ranging from the best budget to luxury. Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda tours can be combined together with other activities.