Chimpanzees in Africa's oldest rainforest — and a walkway through the canopy above them. Nyungwe National Forest is one of Africa's great montane rainforests: over a thousand square kilometres of continuous Afromontane forest, home to thirteen primate species, 310 bird species, and habituated chimpanzee groups that can number forty or more individuals.
The day combines two of Nyungwe's signature experiences: chimpanzee trekking in the deep forest, and the Igishigishigi canopy walkway — a 90-metre suspension bridge at 50 metres above the forest floor that offers a perspective on this ancient landscape that cannot be had any other way. It is a long day from Kigali. It is worth every hour of it.
5:00am departure from Kigali. Drive approximately 5 hours south to Nyungwe. Morning chimpanzee trekking — rangers track habituated groups of 40+ individuals. Trek duration: 1–3 hours depending on chimp movement. Packed lunch at the forest edge. Afternoon: Igishigishigi canopy walkway — 90 metres of suspension bridge at 50 metres above the forest floor. Remarkable birdwatching throughout. Depart 4:00pm. Return to Kigali approximately 7:00pm.