Nyungwe National Park is the largest block of montane forest of East Africa, a uniquely rich centre of floral diversity, the forest has more than 200 different types of indigenous trees, along with hundreds different flowering plants, including wild begonia, the sensational giant lobelias, more than 100 species of orchid etc.
Covering over 1000 square kilometres, Nyungwe Forest national Park is surely one of the world’s most beautiful and pristine mountain rainforests. It’s believed to be one of Africa’s oldest forests, staying green even through the Ice Age, which explains its diversity.
Home to habituated chimpanzees and 12 other primates species (including a 400-strong troop of habituated Ruwenzori Black & White Colobus), it’s also a birder’s paradise with over 300 species, including 16 endemics, and is home to 75 different species of mammal.
This majestic rainforest is filled with nature and wildlife experiences for you to emerge yourself in. Hiking or even biking the beautiful terrain, tracking the famous chimpanzees, experiencing the canopy walk, witnessing beautiful birds, relaxing by waterfalls are just a glimpse of activities that Nyungwe offers.
Sounds and views collaborate to create a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience. Exploring through the forest, travellers will witness the lush green mountains and cooling mist in a landscape that won’t be soon forgotten.
Primates:
The home of roughly 400 species of chimpanzees, Nyungwe is home to one of East Africa’s last intact populations and boasts two wild chimp communities that welcome guests (one in Cyamdungo and other around Uwinka). Thus, it’s not surprising that chimpanzee tracking is a popular activity in Nyungwe (especially when the park’s trees are in full bloom during the summer) as well-trained guides often lead visitors through the park’s forests. And while actually viewing chimpanzees is not guaranteed, you’ll enjoy learning about these creatures and their natural habitats from your guides. But you’ll probably have to get up around four a.m. to succeed in this very challenging activity as chimps are mostly likely to be seen early in the morning.
Nyungwe Forest National Park lies on an elevation of between 1,600 meters and 2,950 meters. The highlands are relatively cool with abundant rainfall, ranging from 1,800mm - 2,500 mm per year (71-78 inches). The rainy season is from September to May while the dry season June to August, with several dry weeks in December and January. Temperatures range from 0 - 30 C (32 - 85 F), average daytime temperature: 15.5 C (60 F). The highland forest covers an area of 970 sq km and has a unique habitat (rainforest, bamboo, grassland, swamps and bogs).
East Africa Top Destinations, Where to go, What to do
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