Understand

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of southwestern Rwanda, the Nyungwe rainforest boasts an unparalleled level of preservation compared to other rainforests across Central Africa. This biodiverse wonderland, situated along the border with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, captivates all who set foot within its boundaries. Marvel at the awe-inspiring geography of Nyungwe as it lies between the Congo River basin to the west and the Nile River basin to the east. From the eastern side of the rainforest, witness the birthplace of the Nile, one of the world's greatest rivers. Established in 2004, the Nyungwe National Park encompasses approximately 970 square kilometers of lush rainforest, bamboo forests, grasslands, swamps, and bogs. Discover the wonders of this enchanting landscape, with the nearest town, Cyangugu, located just 54 kilometers to the west. Within the park, the magnificent Mount Bigugu stands tall, ready to be explored and admired.

Get in

The mesmerizing Nyungwe Forest National Park, with its main entrance at Uwinka, is conveniently situated along the captivating Cyangugu - Huye road. Travelers will find themselves in awe as they embark on a journey through this enchanting park, which is around 55 km from Cyangugu and 90 km from Huye. The road leading to the park mostly offers smooth and pleasant driving conditions. Adventurers can choose to embark on their Nyungwe Forest exploration by hopping on one of the regular buses traversing the route or by engaging in the thrilling experience of hitchhiking. Keep in mind that buses can get crowded upon reaching the park, so it is advisable to reserve your ticket in advance for a stress-free departure. For those journeying from Cyangugu, it is important to disregard the sign in town indicating a distance of 20 km, as well as the sign directing you 15 km from Cyangugu towards a dirt track. These misleading signs refer to a small offshoot of the park and not the actual park itself. To reach Uwinka, where the true wonders of Nyungwe Forest National Park await, travelers can expect to pay around 5000 RWF for the bus fare from Kigali and enjoy a journey that takes over 5 hours. Additionally, there is a park office in Kitabi, offering visitors a convenient way to gather information and make the most of their Nyungwe Forest expedition.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Isombe - Isombe is a traditional Rwandan dish made of mashed cassava (a starchy root vegetable) mixed with fermented beans called muri. The mixture is often flavored with ground peanuts, palm oil, and vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and onions. This hearty, non-spicy dish is typically eaten with hands, and sometimes accompanied by grilled or roasted meat.

Injera - Injera is a type of sourdough flatbread that serves as a staple food in Rwandan cuisine. It is made from teff flour (a tiny, gluten-free grain) and water, which are fermented together to create a unique, slightly tangy flavor. The batter is poured into a large, circular sheet and baked on a clay griddle until it forms a spongy, porous texture. Injera is often used as a utensil for scooping up other dishes, like stews and curries.

Muraho - Muraho is a popular Rwandan beer brewed from sorghum or millet, depending on the region. The grains are -ground and mixed with water, then allowed to ferment for several days. Once ready, the beer is traditionally served from large ceramic jars called gourds. With an average alcohol content of around 5%, this refreshing beverage is a favorite at social gatherings and celebrations.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing