How to Get to Nyungwe National Park: Road From Kigali, Kivu Lakeshore Route and Huye
Nyungwe is a long but scenic drive of around five to six hours from Kigali, usually via Huye, or can be reached along the Lake Kivu shoreline from the north.
The park lies in south-western Rwanda, near the border with Burundi and close to Lake Kivu. The road passes tea estates, rolling hills and a succession of small towns before climbing into the forest.
Because chimpanzee treks start early, most visitors sleep inside or beside the park the night before.
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
- From Kigali: Around 5 to 6 hours by road
- Main route: Via Huye
- Alternative: Lake Kivu shoreline
- Entrances: Gisakura and Uwinka area
- Tip: Overnight near the forest
The Road From Kigali
The standard route heads south via Muhanga and Huye, then turns west towards the forest, climbing through tea plantations. Road quality is good, but hills and slow trucks make the journey longer than the map suggests. A full guide to the road is in Kigali to Nyungwe. Stopping at Huye, Rwanda's university town, is a way to break the journey and see the national museum.
Via Lake Kivu
Travellers who have been at Lake Kivu can drive south along the lakeshore road through Kibuye and Cyangugu. It is slower but spectacular, with views over the water and terraced hills. See Lake Kivu for lakeside stops, and combine Nyungwe with Volcanoes via the Rwanda itineraries planner.
Where to Stay and Why It Matters
Staying near Gisakura or inside the park removes the need for a very early drive on trek day. Chimpanzee tracking and some trails begin before dawn, so lodges near the forest save hours. Ask your operator which entrance and meeting point will be used.
Flights and Domestic Options
Some visitors combine road transport with domestic flights to Kamembe airport near Rusizi, on the Lake Kivu side. Schedules and availability change, so ask your operator. For other air options in the region see flying safaris in East Africa.
Breaking the Journey
The drive is best treated as part of the trip rather than a chore. Huye offers a museum and a lively town atmosphere, and the tea estates near the forest provide excellent photo stops. Travellers coming from the north can spend a night at Lake Kivu first, which also shortens the final leg. Aim to reach the forest by mid-afternoon so you can settle in, eat early and be rested for an early start the following morning.
Practical Tips
Carry water, a light meal, warm clothing and any motion-sickness remedies, as the road is winding. Rwanda bans plastic bags. Visa details are in Rwanda visa and practical information, and the Nyungwe National Park guide covers what to do once there.
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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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- Kigali to Nyungwe National Park: Route, Distance, Time and Stops
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