Huye to Nyungwe: The Road From Rwanda's Southern Hills to the Rainforest

Huye, in southern Rwanda, is home to the national museum and a university, and it is a calm, hilly town. Nyungwe lies to the west, with chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and a canopy walkway.

This page explains the route and how to pace it. For the forest see Nyungwe National Park guide.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

The Drive

The road leaves Huye and winds west through villages, farms and eucalyptus groves, climbing steadily towards the forest edge. Each bend reveals terraced hillsides, banana groves and small trading centres. As altitude increases the air turns cooler and the vegetation denser, and the final approach passes tea estates before reaching the park. The road is sealed but winding, so allow extra time and avoid driving after dark.

What to See in Huye First

Many travellers visit the national museum, which presents Rwandan history and culture, and walk through the town before leaving. A morning in Huye followed by an afternoon journey is a comfortable plan. See Rwandan culture and etiquette for background.

Tea Country Stops

As you near Nyungwe the landscape is dominated by neat tea plantations on the slopes. A short stop to see the plantation or visit a factory is rewarding and gives a sense of the area's economy. See Rwanda coffee and tea tours.

Pacing

Plan to arrive in time for rest and a briefing, because trekking and canopy walk starts are early. Two nights suit a chimpanzee trek and a forest walk. See Nyungwe itineraries and chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe and Kibale.

Onward Travel

From Nyungwe many travellers continue to the Lake Kivu shore or return to Kigali. See Kigali to Nyungwe and Lake Kivu.

Why Combine Culture With the Forest

The shift from the calm university town of Huye to the dense, cool forest is one of Rwanda's most rewarding contrasts. Museum visits and walks in town give background on the country's history, while Nyungwe offers primates, birds and trails that feel remote. Together they make a balanced two or three day extension to a gorilla trip. See Rwanda safari itineraries.

Health, Money and Comfort

Fill up on cash and water in Huye before travelling, since facilities near the forest are limited. Nyungwe is at altitude and often misty, so bring warm layers for early starts. If you suffer from motion sickness, the winding road may be uncomfortable, so sit near the front and take breaks. Check Rwanda visa, money and practical information for general guidance.

Preparing

Nyungwe is wet and cool, so carry rain gear, warm layers and sturdy shoes. See getting to Nyungwe and the best time to visit Rwanda. A good plan is to leave Huye after a relaxed breakfast, stop for the tea country views and arrive at the forest with enough daylight to settle in and get your briefing. Ask whether your lodge can arrange a wake-up call and breakfast box for early treks. Remember that wet-weather gear, gaiters if you have them and a hat are all helpful in the forest, which tends to stay damp even after rain has stopped.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team