Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is celebrated worldwide for its breathtaking gorilla trekking safaris in Volcanoes National Park. Yet beyond the volcanic peaks and misty forests lies another hidden treasure — chimpanzee trekking. This thrilling experience offers travelers the chance to encounter man’s closest relatives in their natural rainforest homes, deep within the lush jungles of Nyungwe Forest National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park.

For those who crave a more intimate, wild, and soulful encounter with Africa’s primates, chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda is an unmissable addition to any safari itinerary in 2024/2025.

The Beauty of Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda

Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda allows visitors to observe these highly intelligent primates as they swing, feed, and communicate in their natural environment. Unlike gorilla trekking, which tends to be slower and more stationary, chimp trekking is fast-paced — the chimps are often on the move, giving trekkers a dynamic and adventurous experience through the dense forest.

It’s a thrilling reminder of our connection to nature and a chance to witness the social and emotional complexity of these fascinating creatures — from their playful antics to their intricate communication patterns and family bonds.

Where to Go for Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda

1. Nyungwe Forest National Park

The Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in southwestern Rwanda, is the country’s premier destination for chimpanzee trekking. Spanning over 1,000 square kilometers of dense tropical rainforest, it is one of the oldest and most biodiverse forests in Africa, home to over 500 chimpanzees and 13 other primate species.

Chimpanzee trekking here starts early in the morning, usually around 5:00–6:00 a.m., when trackers follow the chimps’ calls from their overnight nests. The experience can last between 2 to 6 hours, depending on where the chimpanzees are located that day.

Two habituated chimpanzee groups are currently open for visitors:

Cyamudongo Forest Group: A smaller, more isolated patch of forest near Nyungwe where sightings are almost guaranteed.
Uwinka Group: Found in the main section of Nyungwe, offering a larger and more immersive trekking experience.

Highlights:

Close encounters with wild chimpanzees.
Over 300 bird species and stunning forest scenery.
Canopy walk, waterfall hikes, and colobus monkey tracking.

Best Time to Visit: June–September and December–February (dry seasons).

Location: Approximately 5–6 hours’ drive from Kigali or 1 hour from Kamembe Airport (Cyangugu).

2. Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Rwanda’s newest protected area, Gishwati-Mukura National Park, offers a quieter, less-crowded chimpanzee trekking experience. Located in the northwestern part of the country, this park is smaller but incredibly scenic, with rolling hills, streams, and montane forests.

The park is home to a small population of about 30 chimpanzees, as well as golden monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Though sightings here can be more unpredictable, the intimate setting makes for a deeply personal experience.

Highlights:

Exclusive trekking with fewer tourists.
Opportunity to see chimpanzees alongside other rare primates.
Ideal for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Best Time to Visit: December–February and June–September.
Location: About 2.5–3 hours’ drive from Kigali.

Cost of Chimpanzee Trekking Permits in Rwanda (2024/2025)

Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda is managed by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). The cost of permits varies depending on your residency status:

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 150 per person per trek
Foreign Residents: USD 75 per person per trek
East African Citizens: RWF 10,000 (approximately USD 10)

Permits can be booked directly through RDB or via a registered tour operator. Advance booking is recommended, as each chimp group allows only a small number of visitors per day.

What to Expect During the Trek

Chimpanzee trekking begins early, often before sunrise. After a short briefing at the park headquarters, trekkers are assigned to groups led by professional guides and trackers. As you venture into the forest, you’ll hear the chimps before you see them — their loud hoots and panting calls echo through the trees.

Once you locate them, you’ll spend about one hour observing their behaviors — grooming, feeding, or chasing each other playfully through the canopy. The experience feels wild, raw, and full of energy.

Expect moderate to strenuous hiking through steep and sometimes slippery trails, as chimpanzees move swiftly and cover large distances.

Essential Gear:

Hiking boots with good grip
Long-sleeved clothing
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Rain jacket (Nyungwe receives regular rainfall)
Camera with a zoom lens
Drinking water and light snacks

Accommodation Options

Both Nyungwe and Gishwati-Mukura offer comfortable accommodations ranging from luxury eco-lodges to mid-range options:

Nyungwe Area:

Luxury: One&Only Nyungwe House
Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Budget: Gisakura Guesthouse

Gishwati Area:

Luxury: Gishwati Lodge
Mid-range/Budget: Community guesthouses near the park entrance

All lodges provide easy access to early morning trek starting points and often include guided nature walks or cultural tours.

Combining Chimpanzee Trekking with Other Rwanda Safaris

Rwanda’s small size and excellent road network make it easy to combine chimpanzee trekking with other wildlife and cultural adventures:

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park (3–4 hours from Kigali).
Wildlife Safaris in Akagera National Park for Big Five viewing.
Cultural Tours around Huye, Nyanza, and Kigali.
Lake Kivu Relaxation for scenic boat rides and lakeside retreats.

A perfect itinerary could include:
7 Days Rwanda Primate & Wildlife Safari — combining chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe, gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, and game drives in Akagera.

Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda

The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are the best times for chimp trekking. Trails are easier to navigate, and chimp sightings are more consistent as food sources are concentrated.

During the wet seasons (March–May and October–November), trekking becomes more challenging due to slippery trails, but the forest is beautifully green, and birdwatching is exceptional.

Why Choose Rwanda for Chimpanzee Trekking

High Success Rate: Especially in Nyungwe’s Cyamudongo section.
Scenic Beauty: Misty mountains, ancient forests, and stunning waterfalls.
Conservation Commitment: Rwanda’s eco-tourism model directly supports forest protection.
Accessibility: Easily combined with other major attractions within short driving distances.
Luxury Comfort: World-class lodges and professional guiding services.

Final Thought

Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda is a journey into the heart of Africa’s most ancient forests — an experience filled with emotion, connection, and awe. Watching these intelligent primates communicate, nurture, and play in their natural world is a reminder of our shared ancestry and the importance of preserving these precious ecosystems.

In 2024/2025, as Rwanda continues to lead in sustainable tourism and conservation, chimpanzee trekking offers travelers a chance to go beyond gorillas — to witness the wild, untamed spirit of Africa up close.