3 Days Nyungwe National Park Safari

Overview

This 3 Days Nyungwe National Park Safari takes you into one of Africa’s oldest and most spectacular rainforests. Located in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is famous for its rich biodiversity, stunning scenery, and exceptional primate experiences.

The park is home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and mangabeys. In addition, it supports hundreds of bird species and a dense canopy of tropical vegetation. Therefore, it is one of the best destinations in Rwanda for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Moreover, this short safari combines thrilling chimpanzee trekking with the famous canopy walk experience. As a result, visitors enjoy close encounters with wildlife while exploring the beauty of Rwanda’s montane rainforest.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park

Your safari begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport. After meeting your driver-guide, you will begin the scenic journey to Nyungwe National Park.

The drive takes approximately six to seven hours. However, the spectacular landscapes make the journey enjoyable and rewarding. Along the way, you will pass rolling hills, picturesque tea plantations, and vibrant rural communities.

Visit the King’s Palace Museum

Your first stop will be the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza. Here, you will learn about Rwanda’s traditional monarchy, cultural heritage, and pre-colonial history.

Furthermore, the museum offers fascinating insights into the country’s royal traditions and historical leadership systems.

Explore the Ethnographic Museum

Afterwards, continue to Huye for a visit to the Ethnographic Museum. This museum contains impressive collections that showcase Rwanda’s culture, history, and way of life.

Consequently, visitors gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage before continuing their journey.

Arrival at Nyungwe National Park

Later, travel through the beautiful tea estates of Gisakura. The green landscapes create excellent opportunities for photography and sightseeing.

Upon arrival at your lodge, check in and relax. Afterwards, enjoy dinner while preparing for the exciting chimpanzee trekking experience awaiting you the next day.

Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation Options:

Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Gisakura Guest House
One&Only Nyungwe House

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure

Following an early breakfast, transfer to the Uwinka Visitor Centre for a briefing from park rangers. During the briefing, you will receive important information about chimpanzee trekking regulations and safety guidelines.

Afterwards, begin your trek through the rainforest in search of chimpanzees. The activity can take between two and four hours depending on the location of the primates.

As you walk through the forest, you will hear birds singing and leaves rustling overhead. Additionally, you may encounter other primates, including blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and mangabeys.

Encountering the Chimpanzees

Eventually, you will locate a chimpanzee community within the forest. Once found, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing their behavior.

You may watch them feeding, grooming, playing, or swinging through the treetops. Moreover, this experience provides exceptional opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.

As a result, many visitors consider chimpanzee trekking one of the highlights of their Rwanda safari.

Afternoon Canopy Walk Experience

Following lunch and a short rest at your lodge, return to the park for the famous canopy walk.

Suspended approximately 70 meters above the forest floor, the 200-meter-long bridge offers breathtaking views of the rainforest canopy. Furthermore, it provides a unique perspective of the forest ecosystem.

While crossing the bridge, you may spot colorful birds, monkeys, and butterflies. Consequently, the canopy walk delivers both excitement and incredible scenery.

After the activity, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Return to Kigali

Enjoy breakfast while taking in the peaceful views of the surrounding rainforest.

If time permits, you may participate in a short nature walk or visit a nearby tea plantation. During the visit, you will learn about tea cultivation, harvesting, and processing.

Scenic Drive Back to Kigali

Later, begin your return journey to Kigali. The drive takes approximately six to seven hours and includes scenic stops for photography and refreshments.

Along the way, you can enjoy Rwanda’s beautiful countryside one final time. Finally, upon arrival in Kigali, your driver-guide will transfer you to your hotel or Kigali International Airport for your onward journey.

This marks the end of your memorable Nyungwe National Park Safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

End of Safari

Trip Inclusions

Chimpanzee trekking permit
Canopy walk fees
Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Park entry fees
Bottled drinking water
Meals as specified in the itinerary
Accommodation for two nights

Trip Exclusions

International flights
Rwanda visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips for guides and porters
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and beverages

juliavinnen Jun 2026

Trip Advisor

My boyfriend and I booked an 8-day trip with Kurikayo Africa Adventures, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Our guide, Stuart, had been highly recommended by colleagues, and he absolutely exceeded our expectations. From start to finish, everything was perfectly organized. Stuart is incredibly friendly, professional, knowledgeable, and reliable. He made the entire trip completely stress-free and went above and beyond to accommodate our individual wishes and interests. Our itinerary included Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Lake Bunyonyi, a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park, and finally Lake Mburo National Park. There, we enjoyed both a Night Game Drive and a Walking Safari. One of the most memorable highlights of the trip was a picnic in Lake Mburo National Park, where giraffes casually walked past us while we were having lunch. It was a truly magical and unforgettable experience. The accommodations Stuart selected were outstanding. Every lodge was beautiful, with excellent rooms, great service, and delicious food. The safari vehicle was also comfortable, well-maintained, and perfect for the journey. Both Rwanda and Uganda are absolutely stunning countries and well worth visiting. Thanks to Stuart, we were able to experience places and moments that we would never have discovered on our own. We wholeheartedly recommend Kurikayo Africa Adventures to anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable East African adventure. If you also want to support a growing locally owned Ugandan tour company, this is definitely the right choice. Thank you, Stuart, for an incredible experience and memories that will last a lifetime!

shay g Oct 2025

Oct 2025

I found kurikayo after i search for an apes trip in Rwanda-Uganda. From the start the communication was excellent! I had troubles with the payment and they try to help me and to find other solutions. All the experiences was amazing, although the journeys were long, we ahad fun. Stuart the guide was carring, was funny and especially was so experienced- he knows everything! From the language, to the names and to history! For conclusion- amazing!

Megane G Sep 2025

I have just returned from this beautiful country and I must say that it was an unforgettable experience. Uganda is truly a rare pearl of Africa , breathtaking landscapes, dense rainforests, huge lakes, and above all incredible wildlife in the various parks we visited. I had the chance to see gorillas in the impenetrable forest of bwindi , a magical moment but also elephants, lions, giraffes , hippos and even leopards on safaris. People are amazingly kind and always willing to share their culture. A huge thank you to our guide Stuart, who made this trip even more special thanks to his passion, his knowledge his sense of adventure and organization 🙏 If you are looking for a unique, authentic and emotional destination, I can only recommend Uganda. It is a journey that leaves you with memories for life. 🦍

Zarlech Z Sep 2025

I just came back from an amazing trip to Uganda and... WOW. This country is just magic! Landscapes that seem to come out of a documentary, huge lakes, forests where you almost expect to see Tarzan coming... and above all, animals everywhere! I had one of the most beautiful moments of my life when I met a mountain gorilla – I thought we were going to be best friends. Between two safaris, I saw elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos... in short, it is a real animal kingdom live version. And the top of the line: a huge thank you to our guide Stuart 🙌. Not only does he know Uganda as his pocket – every trail, every animal, every hidden nook and cranny – but he also has a heart of gold. Always smiling, funny, attentive, and ready to share his love for his country, he turned this trip into a unique and human experience. Honestly, if you’re looking for a journey that blends adventure, nature and strong emotions, Uganda must be at the top of your list. This is a country that takes you by the hand and leaves you with stars full of eyes

Philippe L Jan 2025

Foncez Stuart est le meilleur guide et photographe pour découvrir ce merveilleux pays qu’est L’Ouganda. Chaque jour sera un moment exceptionnel de l’humour , du fun , une connaissance approfondie des parcs. Trop stylé. J’ai passé 16 jours avec Stuart Go ahead Stuart is the best guide and photographer to discover this wonderful country that is Uganda. Every day will be an exceptional moment of humor, fun, and in-depth knowledge of the parks. Too stylish. I spent 16 days with Stuart

Alen November 13, 2024

Google

Stuart made my visit a true gem. He has great experience, knowledge and most importantly a very genuine and kind personality. He was always there to support, assist and make me feel comfortable. Bravo, Stuart! Keep up your good work!

Alen November 11, 2024

Your contact for the best experience in Uganda and beyond Nov 2024 • Business Stuart made my visit a true gem! He has great experience, knowledge and most importantly a very genuine & kind personality. He was always there to support, assist and make me feel comfortable. Bog thumbs up for his work and dedication. I will be back for sure.

Isobel D October 13, 2024

Driver Nov 2023 • Family Stuart was a great driver and very friendly. He took us across the Rwandan border to Uganda and back again with both times being enjoyable and a good chance to learn about the local life. Would definitely recommend him!

Jeremy D 9 October 2024

Safe journey across the border Nov 2023 • Family Stuart was an amazing driver. Very safe and efficient. He drove us through from Rwanda to Uganda safely. I highly recommend him.