Step into the untouched serenity of one of Africa’s oldest rainforests with the 3 Days Nyungwe Chimpanzees and Canopy Walk Tour a luxurious escape into the lush biodiversity and pristine beauty of Nyungwe Forest National Park. Located in southwestern Rwanda, this protected montane rainforest is home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys, along with over 300 bird species and rare orchids. This tailored itinerary is designed for travelers seeking both refined comfort and wild encounters, offering you the chance to track chimpanzees at dawn, walk suspended above the treetops on Africa’s most iconic canopy bridge, and unwind at some of Rwanda’s finest eco-luxury lodges.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest
Your luxury adventure begins with a private road transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest (approx. 5–6 hours), with a knowledgeable driver-guide and a fully equipped 4×4 vehicle for your comfort. This journey through Rwanda’s beautiful hills offers breathtaking scenery and enriching cultural experiences.
En route, enjoy a guided visit to the Nyanza Royal Palace Museum, once the residence of Rwanda’s traditional monarchy. Learn about the country’s royal heritage and explore the recreated palace and traditional thatched huts. Afterward, stop in Huye (Butare) to visit the Ethnographic Museum, showcasing Rwanda’s cultural history through an impressive collection of artifacts.
A lunch stop is arranged at a charming boutique restaurant in Butare or at a scenic spot along the way. Arrive at Nyungwe Forest National Park by late afternoon and check into your luxury lodge. Take in the sights and sounds of the forest as you unwind perhaps with a welcome massage, an afternoon cocktail, or a guided stroll along the lodge’s nature trails. Enjoy a fine dining experience featuring locally inspired dishes such as forest-foraged mushroom soup, wild honey-roasted chicken, or plantain mille-feuille, served with wine or freshly pressed juices.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Lunch, Dinner).
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking Adventure
Rise early and head into the forest for a chimpanzee tracking experience one of the most exhilarating wildlife encounters in Africa. After a briefing by park rangers at Cyamudongo or Uwinka, follow expert trackers through dense jungle terrain to locate habituated chimpanzee groups.
Once located, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing these intelligent and energetic primates in their natural environment. Listen for their high-pitched calls, observe their social behaviors, and watch them swing, groom, and interact. The trek itself is adventurous, often involving muddy trails and steep climbs making the luxury amenities awaiting your return all the more rewarding.
Return to your lodge for a hearty brunch or lunch, followed by time to relax whether in a deep-soaking tub, by the fireplace, or at the spa with a rejuvenating forest-scented treatment. Enjoy sundowners on a viewing terrace and another elegant dinner under the stars, reflecting on the day’s encounters with the forest’s most charismatic residents.
Accommodation: One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Day 3: Canopy Walk Experience – Return to Kigali
After breakfast, set out for the iconic Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest, a thrilling and scenic adventure that takes you along a suspended walkway 60 meters above the forest floor. This 200-meter-long bridge offers an unparalleled perspective of the forest’s towering trees, misty hills, and birdlife perfect for photography and quiet awe.
Following the canopy walk, return to your lodge to freshen up and enjoy a late breakfast or early lunch before beginning your journey back to Kigali. The return trip offers additional stops upon request, such as tea estates or craft cooperatives for souvenirs and cultural insight.
Arrive in Kigali by late afternoon or early evening, with the option to enjoy a farewell dinner or check into a hotel depending on your onward travel arrangements.
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch).
End of the 3 Days Nyungwe Chimpanzees and Canopy Walk Tour.
The 3 Days Nyungwe Chimpanzees and Canopy Walk Tour cost includes;
- 1 Chimpanzee Permit per person.
- Airport Transfers.
- Transportation in a 4×4 Safari Vehicle.
- Accommodation and Meals as per the itinerary.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Canopy Walk Experience.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Bottled Water in the Car.
- Relevant Government Taxes.
However, the tour cost excludes; International Air Fare, Visa Fees, Personal Medical and Travel Insurance, Personal Shopping Bills, Tips to Local Guides, Souvenirs and items not listed as included in the cost.