Kigali to Nyungwe National Park: Route, Distance, Time and Stops
The drive from Kigali to Nyungwe National Park takes about five to six hours on paved roads, passing Huye in the south of Rwanda before climbing into the rainforest.
Nyungwe is in south-western Rwanda, close to the border with Burundi. The main road from Kigali runs south through Muhanga to Huye, then west through tea estates and forest. The distance is around two hundred and twenty kilometres, and roads are generally good.
This page explains the route options, stops and what to see in Nyungwe, including chimpanzee tracking and the canopy walk.
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.
At a glance
- Distance: About 220 km
- Drive: 5 to 6 hours
- Road: Paved
- Stops: Huye, tea estates
- Alternative: Lake Kivu route
The Main Route via Huye
| Stage | Notes |
|---|---|
| Kigali to Muhanga | Leaves the capital, rolling hills |
| Muhanga to Huye | Passes the university town and the National Museum of Rwanda |
| Huye to Nyungwe | Climbs through tea estates into the rainforest |
The National Museum in Huye is a worthwhile stop on a longer day.
The Lake Kivu Alternative
A scenic route goes west to Lake Kivu at Karongi, then south along the lakeshore to Rusizi and into Nyungwe from the west. It takes longer but suits an itinerary that adds lakeside stays. See Lake Kivu.
What to Do in Nyungwe
Chimpanzee tracking, the canopy walkway, forest hikes and birding are the main activities. See Nyungwe guide, canopy walk and forest trails and Nyungwe vs Kibale.
Timing and Tips
Start early to arrive in time for afternoon activities, and stay at least one night. Roads can be wet in the rainy months, so pack waterproofs. See best time to visit Rwanda.
The Journey Itself
The road to Nyungwe winds through the southern highlands, passing tea plantations, terraced hillsides and towns such as Huye. Allow around five to six hours with stops, as roads climb and curve. Break the journey at the Ethnographic Museum in Huye or at a viewpoint over rolling hills.
Activities in Nyungwe
Nyungwe Forest is known for chimpanzee tracking, colobus monkey troops, birding and a canopy walkway suspended above the treetops. Hiking trails range from short walks to full-day treks. Mornings are best for wildlife, and rain is possible at any time, so carry waterproofs. See East Africa primates.
Stops Worth Making
Pause at Huye to visit the Ethnographic Museum and the Butare market, stop at tea plantations for views and short walks, and take photographs at viewpoints over the hills. If you travel in the rainy season, expect mist in the forest. Carry snacks and water, and allow time for toilet breaks. Arrive at Nyungwe with enough daylight to settle in before your early start.
Where Next
From Nyungwe you can continue to Lake Kivu, return to Kigali or cross to Uganda. See Rwanda safari tours and Kigali to Akagera.
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
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- Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda: Chimpanzees, Canopy Walk and Colobus Monkeys
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- Kigali to Akagera National Park: Route, Distance and Time
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- Rwanda Safari and Travel Guides: Gorillas, Volcanoes, Nyungwe, Akagera and Kigali
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