Nyungwe Canopy Walk Rwanda – A Thrilling Stroll Above the Rainforest

The Nyungwe Canopy Walk is one of Rwanda’s most spectacular and exhilarating nature experiences — a breathtaking journey high above the ancient rainforest that feels like walking through the clouds. Suspended 60 meters above the forest floor, the canopy walkway offers panoramic views of Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse rainforests. It’s a thrilling yet serene adventure that immerses travelers in the heart of nature, surrounded by the sights and sounds of tropical life.

Discovering Nyungwe Forest National Park

Located in southwestern Rwanda near the border with Burundi, Nyungwe Forest National Park spans over 1,000 square kilometers of pristine montane rainforest. It is one of the most important conservation areas in Central Africa, protecting over 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and the Ruwenzori colobus. The park also boasts more than 300 bird species, 1,000 plant species, and a network of trails that wind through its lush terrain.

The canopy walk is one of the park’s standout attractions, drawing adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers from around the world. It’s the first and only canopy walkway in East Africa, and one of just a few on the continent — a true highlight for anyone visiting Rwanda.

The Canopy Walk Experience

The Nyungwe Canopy Walkway is a 160-meter-long suspension bridge divided into three sections, stretching across a deep forest valley. It is accessed from the Uwinka Visitor Center, the park’s main headquarters. The adventure begins with a scenic hike through the rainforest — a journey filled with mist, chirping birds, and the chatter of monkeys swinging through the treetops.

The walk to the canopy takes about 2 hours round trip, with the trail covering roughly 2 kilometers. The final section of the trail brings you to the hanging bridge — the most thrilling part of the experience. As you step onto the metal walkway, you’re greeted by sweeping views of treetops, mountain ridges, and endless green stretching into the horizon.

The walkway sways gently with each step, offering a rush of excitement balanced by the tranquil rhythm of the forest below. From this height, you may spot blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, or even a troop of colobus monkeys gliding across the canopy. Birdwatchers often glimpse the Ruwenzori turaco, great blue turaco, and mountain black boubou among many other forest species.

What Makes the Nyungwe Canopy Walk Special

The Nyungwe Canopy Walk isn’t just a tourist attraction — it’s a symbol of Rwanda’s dedication to conservation and eco-tourism. It allows visitors to experience the rainforest from a unique perspective while minimizing disturbance to wildlife. Every step across the bridge reveals the sheer scale and beauty of this ecosystem — one of Africa’s last intact montane rainforests.

Unlike many canopy walks around the world, Nyungwe’s is set amidst ancient trees and rugged mountains, offering a truly immersive encounter with both nature and adventure. It’s especially enchanting in the early morning when the mist clings to the treetops, and the sun’s first rays illuminate the forest canopy.

Best Time to Visit the Nyungwe Canopy Walk

The canopy walk is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons — from June to September and December to February — when the trails are less slippery and the skies are clearer for photography. However, because Nyungwe is a tropical rainforest, occasional rain is possible at any time of year, adding to the mystical atmosphere of the forest.

What to Bring

Visitors should come prepared for a moderate hike. Essentials include:

• Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.

• A light rain jacket or poncho (the forest can be misty or rainy).

• A hat and sunscreen for open areas.

• Binoculars and a camera for spotting wildlife and capturing the scenery.

• Drinking water and snacks.

Accessibility and Fees

The canopy walk starts from the Uwinka Reception Center, which is about 5–6 hours by road from Kigali and roughly 1.5 hours from Gisakura town near Lake Kivu. The walk is guided by professional park rangers who provide insights about the forest’s ecology and wildlife.

• Canopy walk fee (foreign visitors): Approx. USD 60 per person (includes guide).

• For Rwandan citizens and East African residents: Reduced rates apply.

Visitors must also pay the park entrance fee to access Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

The canopy walk is just one of many adventures within Nyungwe Forest. Other popular activities include:

• Chimpanzee tracking in the Cyamudongo and Uwinka sections of the park.

• Waterfall hikes, including the scenic Isumo Waterfall Trail.

• Colobus monkey tracking near Gisakura.

• Birdwatching tours with expert guides.

• Community visits to learn about local tea production and Rwandan culture.

Accommodation Options

There are several lodges and hotels near Nyungwe Forest offering comfort and easy access to the canopy walk:

• One&Only Nyungwe House – A luxury lodge nestled within a tea plantation, offering exceptional service and rainforest views.

• Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel – Mid-range accommodation with panoramic views of the park.

• Gisakura Guesthouse – Budget-friendly and ideal for travelers seeking a simple stay close to the park entrance.

Conclusion

The Nyungwe Canopy Walk is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, tranquility, and breathtaking beauty. Suspended between sky and forest, you’ll feel the heartbeat of one of Africa’s oldest rainforests beneath your feet — a reminder of how deeply connected we are to nature. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, photographer, or simply a lover of wild places, the canopy walk in Nyungwe is a must-do experience in Rwanda that leaves every traveler in awe.