How to Book Chimpanzee Permits for Gishwati-Mukura National Park

How to Book Chimpanzee Permits for Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Gishwati-Mukura National Park, established in 2015, is Rwanda’s newest and smallest national park, covering just 34 square kilometers. Nestled along the Congo-Nile ridge within the Albertine Rift, it combines the Gishwati and Mukura forests, offering a unique and serene setting for chimpanzee trekking. Despite its small size, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Eastern Chimpanzees, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and over 232 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics. The park’s establishment has helped to revitalize and protect this once-depleted ecosystem, making it an exceptional destination for eco-tourism.

Booking Chimpanzee Trekking Permits in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

To book a chimpanzee trekking permit in Gishwati-Mukura National Park, you’ll need to secure your permit through the Rwanda Development Board. Start by confirming your travel dates, and reach out to us with your plans. We’ll check permit availability for your desired dates with the Rwanda Development Board. Once we confirm availability, we’ll send you an invoice to proceed with payment. After receiving your payment, we’ll immediately purchase your permits and email you a scanned copy for your records. This ensures that your permit is secured for a specific trekking date in Gishwati-Mukura.

Cost of Chimpanzee Trekking in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Currently, chimpanzee trekking in Gishwati-Mukura is largely research-based, and a specific permit price is yet to be standardized. Our all-inclusive 3-day Gishwati-Mukura National Park tour, including transportation, accommodation, guiding, and park fees, starts at approximately USD $2375 per person (based on double occupancy in a group of two). Contact us for a personalized quote, and we’ll assist in arranging a memorable experience.

Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

While Gishwati-Mukura can be visited year-round, the optimal months for chimpanzee trekking are during the rainy season from October to May. This period provides plentiful food for chimpanzees, making them easier to locate as they stay closer to food sources. However, expect muddy and slippery trails, which can make trekking more challenging.

The drier months from June to September offer easier hiking conditions due to drier trails and less dense vegetation, although locating the chimpanzees may require a bit more effort.

The Chimpanzee Trekking Experience in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Chimpanzee trekking begins with a morning briefing by a park ranger, covering safety guidelines and trekking etiquette. Accompanied by a guide, you’ll venture into the forest in search of chimpanzees and other wildlife, such as golden monkeys, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and baboons. Upon locating the chimps, you’ll have a one-hour window to observe them in their natural habitat. This trek may also bring you sightings of duikers, colorful bird species, and other fascinating wildlife.

Ready to explore Rwanda’s hidden gem? Contact us today to book your chimpanzee trekking permit and arrange your unforgettable adventure in Gishwati-Mukura National Park.

Explore Other Activities in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Gishwati-Mukura National Park offers diverse experiences that go beyond chimpanzee trekking, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Here are some of the top activities to enjoy in this unique Rwandan park.

Guided Nature Walks

The park’s network of trails allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the forest up close. On a guided nature walk, you can encounter various forest creatures, including butterflies, chameleons, insects, birds, and monkeys. The forest is home to over 60 native tree species, such as bamboo, ferns, mahogany, and orchids. Recently introduced species, like dombeya torrida, eucalyptus, and hagenia abyssinica, add to the forest’s unique plant diversity.

Primate Tracking

Primate tracking is one of Gishwati-Mukura’s main attractions. In addition to chimpanzees, the park is home to golden monkeys, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and baboons. Tracking starts with a briefing on the dos and don’ts of trekking, and then, guided by a knowledgeable park ranger, you’ll venture into the forest to search for these fascinating primates. Along the way, you may also spot duikers, numerous bird species, and other small mammals.

Birdwatching

For birdwatching enthusiasts, Gishwati-Mukura is a hidden gem. The park boasts over 232 bird species, including 15 Albertine Rift endemics like the grey crowned crane, martial eagle, mountain yellow warbler, purple-breasted sunbird, and Ruwenzori turaco. With its rich birdlife, Gishwati-Mukura ranks among the best birding destinations in Rwanda.

Waterfall Visit

One of the most scenic trails in the park leads to Kazeneza Waterfall, located in the heart of Gishwati-Mukura. This hike offers breathtaking views and an opportunity to experience the tranquil beauty of the forest as you approach the falls. The hike to the waterfall is ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Biking and Cycling Along the Congo Nile Trail

Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the Congo Nile Trail, one of East Africa’s premier biking routes. This trail winds along Lake Kivu’s shores, passing through Nyungwe Forest and offering views of diverse landscapes and local communities.

Community-Based Experiences

Gishwati-Mukura also provides opportunities to connect with local communities through activities like farm stays, cultural dance performances, handicraft workshops, and beekeeping. You can visit a tea plantation, meet traditional healers who use medicinal plants, and gain insights into the locals’ sustainable ways of living alongside the wildlife.

Accessing Gishwati-Mukura National Park

The park is about a 2-hour drive from Kigali by road. For a quicker option, you can book a chartered flight from Kigali to Gishwati-Mukura. The park is also accessible from Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, making it easy to combine a visit to Gishwati with gorilla trekking in Uganda.

Where to Stay in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Although Gishwati-Mukura is a newer national park, it offers a luxurious accommodation option: Gishwati Lodge, a high-end eco-lodge featuring six luxury chalets. Since it can accommodate fewer than 15 guests, booking in advance is recommended to secure your stay.

You can also find accommodation options in nearby Kivu, Rubavu, or Volcanoes National Park, all just a 30-minute drive from the park.

Why Book Your Chimpanzee Trekking with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves on our experienced and knowledgeable team, committed to providing the best travel experience possible. Our team comprises Ugandans with extensive experience in Rwandan wildlife tourism, ensuring that you’ll be working with experts who know the region intimately. Highly rated on TripAdvisor, we provide updated and reliable information to help you plan your chimpanzee trekking and other activities in Gishwati-Mukura. For any inquiries or to book your permit, reach out to us for a seamless and well-organized adventure.