Chimp trekking in Rwanda is done in Nyungwe Forest National park a far-flung destination south of Rwanda approximately 217km (6 hours drive) from Rwanda’s capital Kigali.
Although chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe forest is unpredictable and only has a 30 – 40 % success of seeing the chimpanzees that wonder this lush forest, chimpanzee tracking still remains the main thing to do for many travellers that visit this park. Because of the low success rate in finding the chimps of Nyungwe forest, we recommend that travellers plan some extra time to allow for exploration of other attractions or activities both en route and in the forest just-in-case they don’t get to see the Chimps.
Besides Chimpanzee trekking what else can I do in Nyungwe Forest?
Nyungwe Forest National park is not only known for Chimp trekking but it is also home to elephants, birds, and forest-dwelling antelopes. To get a better understanding of what to add to your chimp trekking Rwanda Safari,
- Canopy Walk in Nyungwe forest.
- Waterfall hiking trails in Nyungwe.
- Bird watching in Nyungwe forest
Related: Things to do & see in Nyungwe Forest.
Alternatively, you may consider visiting a couple of other attractions en-route:
- Nyanza King’s palace.
- Butare Museum.
- Murambi genocide memorial site.
Getting ready for your chimp trekking In Rwanda
The Chimp trekking in Rwanda just like any other chimp trekking can be a physically demanding exercise. We, therefore, recommend that all persons intending to trek chimps in Nyungwe forest maintain reasonable levels of fitness to allow them successfully trek through the forest in Search for chimps.
Protecting your Body – What to wear on a chimp trekking Safari.
Protecting your precious body while trekking chimps in the tropical forest should be one of your number one motives. This can only be attained if you take time to read this post in order to understand what to wear on a chimp trekking Safari to Rwanda and or Uganda.
- Long-Sleeved Shirts: We recommend that you wear comfortable long-sleeved shirts to protect your arms from the thorny bushes and or any forest bugs that bit or cause and allergy to your skin.
- Waterproof Jacket: This will help keep you dry and comfortable through the chimp Trekking experience. However, we recommend that you bring a lightweight waterproof jacket, not your bulky winter waterproof coat.
- Insect Repellent: There are a variety of insect repellents on the market both at your local home stores or online. Carry some for your trip to Africa trust me you will need it to keep all insects far away from your body.
- Gloves: Bring gloves to protect your hands while you trek for chimps. You don’t have to buy fancy gloves online, simply ask your guide on arrival to drop by a local hardware store (time permitting) and there you can pick up ordinary gardening gloves – Buying from a local store benefits the community.
- Hiking/trekking boots: Remember all chimp trekking safaris take place in tropical rain forests characterized by rainy climates – meaning the place gets wet & muddy. You can not wear flip flops or ordinary shoes on a chimp trek. We recommend descent waterproof hiking boots to protect you from both rain and also to support your ankles while you trek the uneven tracks of the forests.
Waterproof Day pack / Bag: This comes in handy for carrying your camera(s), extra battery, repellents, bottled water (2 litres – recommended), binoculars and any other stuff you may want to take with you into the forest.
