Things to Do in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Things to Do in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

If you’re planning a trip to Gishwati-Mukura National Park, you’re in for a unique experience in Rwanda’s newest national park. Established in 2015, this park merges Gishwati Forest and Mukura Forest, making it the smallest national park in the country at just 34 square kilometers. Nestled on the ridge that separates the Congo and Nile watersheds along the diverse Albertine Rift, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Gishwati-Mukura is home to a variety of wildlife, including Eastern chimpanzees, golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, and a rich array of bird species—over 232 in total! Some of these birds are endemic to the Albertine Rift, making the park a fantastic destination for birdwatching. The area has undergone significant conservation efforts since it was gazetted, helping to restore its ecosystem after years of degradation due to resettlement, livestock farming, and illegal mining.

Top Activities in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Visitors to Gishwati-Mukura National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including birdwatching, primate tracking, guided nature walks, and more. Here’s a closer look at what you can do:

Guided Nature Walks

Explore the enchanting beauty of Gishwati-Mukura on guided nature walks. The park features several established trails where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant forest. As you walk, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including butterflies, chameleons, various insects, and primates. You’ll also encounter over 60 species of trees, such as bamboos, ferns, mahogany, and orchids. Additionally, new species like Dombeya torrida, eucalyptus, and Hagenia abyssinica have been introduced, enriching the park’s biodiversity.

Primate Tracking

Primate tracking is one of the park’s most exciting activities. You’ll have the chance to see golden monkeys, chimpanzees, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and even baboons. Your adventure will start with a morning briefing from a park ranger about the dos and don’ts of tracking. Guided by an expert, you’ll embark on a trek into the forest to search for these fascinating primates, while also spotting other mammals like duikers and a variety of bird species.

Birdwatching

Gishwati-Mukura National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. With over 232 recorded bird species, including 15 endemic species unique to the Albertine Rift, it’s one of Rwanda’s top birdwatching destinations. Keep your binoculars ready for sightings of the Grey Crowned Crane, Martial Eagle, Mountain Yellow Warblers, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Red-throated Alethe, Regal Sunbird, Ruwenzori Batis, Ruwenzori Turaco, and various weavers and woodhoopoes.

Waterfall Visit

Don’t miss the chance to hike to the stunning Kazeneza Waterfall, one of the park’s best hiking trails. This picturesque waterfall is located in the heart of the park and offers breathtaking views, making it an ideal spot for sightseeing and photography.

Biking and Cycling Through the Congo Nile Trail

Embark on one of East Africa’s premier biking adventures along the stunning Congo Nile Trail. This remarkable route winds along the picturesque shorelines of Lake Kivu and traverses the lush Nyungwe Forest, offering an exhilarating experience for cyclists and nature lovers alike.

In addition to the breathtaking scenery, you can engage in a variety of community-based activities that deepen your connection with the local culture. Participate in a farm stay, enjoy live cultural dance performances, learn the art of handicraft making, experience beekeeping, and take a tour of a tea plantation. You’ll also have the unique opportunity to learn from traditional healers who utilize natural plants alongside modern medicine. These immersive experiences will provide insights into how local communities coexist with the rich wildlife surrounding them.

Top Attractions in Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Wildlife

Gishwati-Mukura National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a diverse range of primates, including Eastern Chimpanzees, Golden Monkeys, L’Hoest Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, Olive Baboons, Vervet Monkeys, and Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys. Each visit offers a chance to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Birdlife

Bird lovers will delight in Gishwati-Mukura National Park, which boasts over 232 recorded bird species. Among these are stunning sightings of the Regal Sunbird, Grauer’s Swamp Warbler, Ruwenzori Batis, Wood Hoopoe, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Martial Eagle, Strange Weaver, Grey Crowned Crane, Dusky Crimsonwing, Ruwenzori Turaco, and Mountain Yellow Warblers. Some of these species are endemic to the Albertine Rift, making this park a must-visit for avid birdwatchers.

How to get to Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Getting to Gishwati-Mukura National Park is straightforward. You can drive from Kigali, which takes about two hours by road. Alternatively, chartered flights are available from Kigali to Gishwati-Mukura, offering a quicker travel option. The park can also be accessed from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, allowing you to combine your visit with a thrilling gorilla trekking experience.

Where to Stay

As a relatively new national park, Gishwati-Mukura is still developing its accommodation options. Currently, Gishwati Lodge stands out as the premier choice for visitors. This luxury lodge features six exquisite chalets and accommodates fewer than 15 guests at a time, ensuring a personalized experience. To secure your stay, it is advisable to book your accommodation at least a month in advance.

For additional options, you can consider staying in nearby areas such as Rubavu or Volcanoes National Park, which are just a 30-minute drive from the park.

Why Book Your Tour with Trek Africa Expeditions

When planning your visit to Gishwati-Mukura National Park, consider booking your tour with Trek Africa Expeditions. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional and professional tour services across Uganda, Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda. As proud members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO), we work closely with the Uganda Wildlife Authority to ensure a seamless experience for our clients. Our highly rated services on TripAdvisor reflect our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Our website serves as a reliable resource for planning your mountain gorilla safari from Kigali, providing up-to-date information and expert guidance. As a Ugandan-owned and operated company, we offer local insights and an authentic experience. Let us help you create unforgettable memories in the breathtaking landscapes of Gishwati-Mukura National Park.