Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda, bordering Burundi to the south and Lake Kivu and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west. This ancient rainforest lies within the Albertine Rift, a biodiversity hotspot that stretches through East and Central Africa.
It’s approximately 225 kilometers from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city, and can be reached by road in about 5 to 6 hours. The park is easily accessible and well-connected via asphalt roads, making it a smooth journey for travelers heading from Kigali International Airport or combining safaris from other national parks.
Nyungwe’s Geographic Setting
Nyungwe sprawls over 1,020 square kilometers, encompassing montane rainforests, bamboo-covered slopes, swamps, and grasslands. It is nestled in the rugged mountains of southwestern Rwanda, with elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,950 meters above sea level.
This high-altitude forest is part of the Nile-Congo Watershed, and some sources even claim the park contains the furthest source of the Nile River. The terrain is scenic, often mist-shrouded, and brimming with ancient vegetation, making it a unique ecological wonder.
Districts Surrounding Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe Forest National Park cuts across several administrative districts, including:
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Nyamasheke District – in the western part, near Gisakura.
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Rusizi District – located south of the park, near the town of Cyangugu (Kamembe).
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Nyaruguru District – in the southeastern part of the park.
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Karongi District – borders the park’s northern edges, especially near Lake Kivu.
The main visitor center at Uwinka lies near the center of the park and is the hub for most trekking, canopy walk, and hiking experiences.
How to Get There
You can reach Nyungwe Forest National Park:
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By Road from Kigali: A scenic 5–6 hour drive via Muhanga, Huye (Butare), and Nyamagabe. It’s tarmac all the way, passing through vibrant towns and beautiful countryside.
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By Domestic Flight: RwandAir operates flights from Kigali to Kamembe Airport (Cyangugu) near Rusizi, which is about 45 minutes by car from the park’s Gisakura entrance.
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By Private Safari Transfer: Most tour operators offer 4×4 transfers combined with guided itineraries that include other parks like Volcanoes and Akagera.
