Canopy Walk after Chimp Trek in Nyungwe Forest

Canopy Walk after Chimp Trek in Nyungwe Forest National Park offers an exciting way to explore Rwanda’s rainforests. After tracking chimpanzees in the morning, the afternoon brings a new kind of forest adventure. The walk on the suspended bridge gives great views of trees, birds, and the forest below. This trip blends nature, wildlife, and adventure in one package. It fits well into a short holiday or weekend break. Visitors meet chimpanzees, explore the rainforest, and enjoy cultural visits too. Nyungwe’s cool weather, rich greenery, and welcoming guides create a good mix of comfort and action for travelers.

Day 1: Drive to Nyungwe with a Kigali City Tour

After arriving at Kigali International Airport, a professional guide receives you and starts the city tour. This city visit includes the Kigali Genocide Memorial and some sites showing Rwanda’s rich cultural history. You’ll also pass through clean streets, craft shops, and local markets with friendly people and fresh produce.

The journey from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest begins soon after the city tour. The road trip heads through beautiful hills, rural villages, and green fields. This drive gives visitors a chance to see Rwanda’s countryside and the everyday life of the people. Along the way, there are stops for photos and short breaks.

Nyungwe Forest sits in the southwest part of Rwanda and holds one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. It shelters over 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and the Albertine Rift-endemic L’Hoest’s monkey. Visitors also find many birds, butterflies, orchids, and plants inside the forest. Arrive at your lodge before evening and relax while enjoying great views of the forested hills.

Main Destination: Nyungwe Forest National Park

Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hotel or One & Only Nyungwe House

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Drinks: Drinking Water

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking Experience in Nyungwe Forest

Wake up early and enjoy a warm breakfast before heading to the Nyungwe Park Headquarters with your guide. The chimpanzee trek starts early because chimpanzees are active in the morning hours. Rangers first give a briefing on the rules, safety, and what to expect during the trek.

The trail leads deep into the rainforest. You will hear bird songs, monkey calls, and the rustling of leaves. The forest smells fresh and rich with nature. Guides help spot different forest animals and teach about the forest’s plants and wildlife. Treks can take two to five hours depending on the location of the chimps.

Once the group finds the chimpanzees, visitors get one hour to watch their daily life. You’ll see them play, groom, climb trees, or search for food. Cameras are allowed but flash must stay off to avoid disturbing the chimps. The guide ensures the group keeps a safe distance throughout the visit.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and some rest. The lodge offers great views where you can sit and relax after the forest walk. Use the evening to enjoy the cool weather, take a short walk nearby, or enjoy a warm drink by the fire.

Main Destination: Nyungwe Forest National Park

Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hotel or One & Only Nyungwe House

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Drinks: Drinking Water

Day 3: Nyungwe Canopy Walk Above the Rainforest

This morning, after breakfast, prepare for the famous canopy walk at Nyungwe Forest National Park. This walk takes you above the trees on a suspended metal bridge. It stretches about 160 meters long and hangs 70 meters above the forest floor. The bridge gives rare views of treetops, birds, butterflies, and the deep valleys below.

To reach the walkway, follow the Igishigishigi trail for around 30 minutes. Visitors also spot orchids, moss, and sometimes monkeys swinging in the trees. The walkway itself feels safe, and guides move with small groups to share details and offer help when needed.

From the top, you will see layers of green trees stretching across the horizon. Colorful birds fly across the treetops. Butterflies float through the air. The cool breeze and forest sounds make the moment peaceful and exciting at once.

Canopy walks happen at different times—8:00 am, 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm. The park staff guides each group to ensure safety and smooth flow. For those not afraid of heights, this is often the best part of the trip. It gives a different view of the same forest explored from below during the chimp trek.

After the walk, return to the lodge for lunch. Use the rest of the day to relax or explore nearby trails at your pace. Lodges around Nyungwe often offer cultural talks or short walks where guests meet local guides and learn more about the area.

Main Destination: Nyungwe Forest National Park

Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hotel or One & Only Nyungwe House

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Drinks: Drinking Water

Day 4: Drive Back to Kigali and Drop-Off

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kigali. The drive follows the same scenic route through hills, tea plantations, and villages. Take time to stop at a local market or roadside stall if needed. The guide will manage time well to reach the airport or your hotel on time.

This marks the end of your chimpanzee and canopy walk experience in Nyungwe Forest. For those with late flights or extra time, we help arrange extra accommodation at an extra cost. Whether at the airport or hotel, your guide will make sure your drop-off goes smoothly.

Main Destination: Kigali City

Accommodation: Not Included

Meals: Breakfast

Drinks: Drinking Water

What’s Included in the Tour Price

• Chimpanzee trekking permit valued at $90 per person
• Park entry fees for Nyungwe Forest National Park
• Accommodation and meals as stated in the day-by-day itinerary
• Professional English-speaking guide with experience in primates and birds
• Transport in a 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with fuel and driver fees
• All activities mentioned including the canopy walk
• AMREF Emergency Evacuation Insurance cover
• All government taxes and service charges

What’s Not Included in the Price

• International flights to and from Kigali
• Rwanda entry visa fees and related processing charges
• Personal travel insurance and health-related expenses
• Tips, souvenirs, snacks, and items of personal nature
• Extra meals and activities not listed in the itinerary
• Extra luggage on domestic flights (if booked separately)
• Hotel stay after the final day of the trip

The best time to go for Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk in Rwanda

The best time for chimpanzee trekking and the canopy walk in Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park is during the dry season, typically from June to September and December to February. This period offers less rain and easier trekking conditions, making it more enjoyable for both activities.

Dry Season:

During the dry season, the trails are less muddy and easier to navigate, especially for chimpanzee trekking, where you might need to trek through the forest to find the chimps.

Canopy Walk:

The canopy walk in Nyungwe is also easier and more enjoyable during the dry season, with fewer slippery conditions and better views.

Chimpanzee Trekking:

The dry season is considered ideal because the chimpanzees are more active and easier to spot.

Rainy Season:

While chimpanzee trekking is possible during the rainy season (March-May and October-November), the trails can become muddy and slippery, making it less comfortable. However, the rainy season can also be beneficial for birdwatching and potentially easier chimp spotting as they may be more concentrated around food sources.

How to get to Nyungwe Forest National Park