Rwanda Chimpanzee trekking is a popular activity done in Nyungwe forest national park with 2 groups habituated for trekking. Chimpanzee trekking happens early morning so that you are able to find the chimps as they start their day feeding and grooming each other. There is a group at Uwinka which has about 60 individuals and chimpanzee tracking starts at 5.30am. The next chimpanzee trekking group is at Cyamudongo and tracking starts at 5.00am from the Gisakura office.
Just like gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking starts with a briefing from the ranger guides where they share information of the forest where the chimps reside and how you should behave while in the forest plus expected distances of travel and any other sightings you might encounter while on this trip.
Nyungwe forest is a huge tropical forest with over 1000 plant species that reflect Rwanda’s diverse biodiversity. Nyungwe is home to approximately 240 bird species, making it a birder’s delight too. Visitors can expect to see baboons, colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and other primates in addition to chimp trekking and birding.
Gishwati-Mukura national park also has a small group of chimpanzees but these are not yet famous for trekking. Chimpanzee trekking happens early morning so that you are able to find the chimps as they start their day feeding and grooming each other.
Chimpanzee trekking tips
- The age limit for chimp trekking is 15 years and above
- You will need water proof hiking boots/shoes
- Wear trousers and long sleeved shirts to avoid stinging from plants and insects
- We recommend you use Insect repellent
- Carry bottled water for drinking