Nyungwe Canopy Walk and Forest Trails: Rwanda's Ancient Montane Rainforest

Nyungwe Forest in south-western Rwanda is one of the oldest and most biodiverse montane rainforests in Africa, with hundreds of bird species and over a dozen primates. Its canopy walkway, a suspended bridge strung between tall trees, is the highlight for many visitors and gives a view over the treetops that ground-level trails cannot.

The walk is reached by a short guided hike, and the walkway itself is wide enough to take a small group at a time. Beyond the canopy there are waterfall trails, bamboo and bog trails and a network of paths through tea country. See the main guide to Nyungwe National Park for chimpanzees and colobus.

This guide is part of our East Africa travel guides. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

On the Walkway

The bridge hangs high above the forest floor, and the view is across a sea of tree crowns. Birds and monkeys sometimes pass at eye level, and early mornings are quiet and cool. Guides limit group size for safety, and anyone nervous of heights can turn back at any point.

Other Trails

Trails vary from short strolls to full-day walks. Waterfall routes give photo stops, birding trails focus on Albertine Rift endemics and colobus tracking can be done in large troops. Nyungwe's tea plantations on the park edge are also worth a walk.

Best Time and Planning

The drier months make trails easier, but rain showers can fall at any time in a rainforest. Bring layers, waterproofs and sturdy shoes. The forest suits two nights or more, especially if you add chimpanzee trekking.

Planning Rwanda with Uganda? Tell us your dates and we will combine both countries in one smooth itinerary, with transfers and permits arranged.

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