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Where to Stay in Gishwati Mukura National Park
Gishwati Mukura National Park, Rwanda’s newest national park, was created in 2015 by merging the Gishwati and Mukura forests. Though it is the smallest national park in Rwanda, covering just 34 square kilometers, it offers a unique experience in one of the country’s most pristine natural areas. As the park is still in its early stages of development, accommodation options are limited. However, there are still great places to stay that ensure a comfortable and unforgettable visit.
Top Lodging Options Near Gishwati Mukura
The best place to stay in Gishwati Mukura National Park is Gishwati Lodge. This luxury lodge is the ideal base for exploring the park, offering a serene and upscale retreat amidst the forest. With only six luxury chalets, Gishwati Lodge hosts fewer than 15 guests at a time, providing an exclusive and intimate experience. We recommend booking your accommodation at least a month in advance to secure your spot at this sought-after lodge.
For those seeking more variety, there are additional options available in nearby towns such as Kivu, Rubavu or Volcanoes National Park. These locations are about 30 minutes’ drive from Gishwati Mukura, providing both convenience and flexibility for your stay.
How to Get to Gishwati Mukura National Park
Gishwati Mukura National Park is about a 2-hour drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. This makes it easily accessible by road, making it a great addition to any Rwanda safari itinerary. For those looking to add an extra bit of luxury or convenience, there is also the option of a chartered flight from Kigali directly to the park.
Additionally, if you’re already visiting Uganda, Gishwati Mukura can be reached from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, making it a perfect opportunity to combine your visit with gorilla trekking.
Best Time to Visit Gishwati Mukura for Safari and Trekking
You can visit Gishwati Mukura National Park year-round but the dry season from June to September is the most comfortable for trekking. During these months, the trails are drier and visibility is better. However, the rainy season from October to May can also be ideal for chimpanzee trekking, as food is more abundant and the chimps stay closer to the trails, making them easier to spot.
While trekking in the wet season can be more challenging due to slippery trails and thicker vegetation, the experience is well worth it for wildlife enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the park’s vibrant ecosystem.
Wildlife and Biodiversity in Gishwati Mukura
Situated on the ridge separating the Congo and Nile river catchments along the Albertine Rift, Gishwati Mukura National Park is a biodiverse haven. The park is home to a range of primates, including the endangered Eastern Chimpanzees, which share the forest with golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys and baboons. It is also a birding paradise, boasting over 232 recorded bird species, including Albertine endemics, making it one of the best birding destinations in Rwanda.
The park’s restoration efforts, following its near depletion due to illegal farming, mining and resettlement, have played a crucial role in conserving this once-threatened ecosystem. The establishment of the park in 2015 has marked a positive turn in the conservation of its unique wildlife.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Gishwati Mukura National Park
Chimpanzee trekking is the main attraction in Gishwati Mukura National Park. Your day will begin early with a briefing about the park’s rules and the dos and don’ts of trekking. Accompanied by a park ranger, you’ll hike into the forest in search of the Eastern Chimpanzees. Once located, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing the chimps in their natural habitat.
During your trek, you may also encounter other primates such as golden monkeys, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys and even baboons. Additionally, keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife such as duikers and various species of birds.
Whether you visit in the dry or wet season, chimpanzee trekking in Gishwati Mukura promises to be a rewarding adventure in one of Rwanda’s most scenic national parks.
Primate Trekking and Wildlife Tours
Currently, primate trekking in Gishwati Mukura is more research-based than commercially set. While there is no official permit cost for trekking yet, visitors are required to cover costs for services such as transport, accommodation and guiding.
For a seamless experience, consider our 3-day Gishwati Mukura National Park Tour, which includes all essentials and costs from USD 2,750 per person when sharing in a group of two. Contact us for more details and we’ll handle the rest, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable safari experience.
Top Activities in Gishwati Mukura National Park
Gishwati Mukura National Park is not only a destination for chimpanzee trekking but also offers a wide range of activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich wildlife of the area. Here are some must-do activities when visiting the park:
Guided Nature Walks
One of the best ways to explore the forest up close is through a guided nature walk. As you follow the established trails, you’ll encounter the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Look out for unique species of butterflies, chameleons, insects, birds and primates. The park is home to over 60 species of trees, including bamboos, mahogany, orchids and more. You’ll also get to see newly introduced species such as dombeya torrida, eucalyptus and polyscias fulva, which have further enhanced the park’s biodiversity.
Primate Tracking
Primate tracking is the highlight activity in Gishwati Mukura National Park. Join a guided group to search for a variety of primates, including Golden Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, L’Hoest’s Monkeys and Baboons. Your adventure begins early with a briefing about the park’s rules, followed by a walk into the forest led by a knowledgeable park ranger. During your trek, you may also spot other mammals like duikers and a variety of birds.
Bird Watching
For bird enthusiasts, Gishwati Mukura is one of Rwanda’s top destinations for bird watching. With over 232 species of birds, including 15 species unique to the Albertine Rift, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Keep an eye out for rare species like the Grey Crowned Crane, Martial Eagle, Mountain Yellow Warbler and Ruwenzori Turaco. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a beginner, Gishwati Mukura offers plenty of opportunities to spot these beautiful creatures.
A Visit to the Waterfall
One of the most breathtaking trails in the park takes you to the Kazeneza Waterfall. This hike offers stunning panoramic views of the park as it winds its way through lush vegetation. The waterfall is located in the heart of the park, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing and capturing some memorable photos.
Biking and Cycling Through the Congo Nile Trail
For cycling enthusiasts, the Congo Nile Trail provides one of the best biking experiences in East Africa. The trail runs along the shores of Lake Kivu, passing through the stunning Nyungwe Forest. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just looking for a fun outdoor adventure, biking along this scenic trail is a fantastic way to explore the region.
Community-Based Activities
Gishwati Mukura also offers a range of community-based activities that allow you to engage with local cultures. These activities include farm stays, cultural dance performances, handicraft making, beekeeping and tea plantation tours. You’ll also have the chance to meet traditional healers who use plants for medicinal purposes, offering a fascinating insight into the connection between local traditions and modern medicine.
Why Book with Trek Africa Gorillas?
At Trek Africa Gorillas, we pride ourselves on providing personalized service and expert knowledge of both Rwanda and Uganda. Our team, made up of experienced locals, ensures that your trip is seamless and memorable. With excellent reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Safari Bookings, we are highly recommended for those looking to explore the best of Rwanda’s wildlife.
Our website offers the most up-to-date information and our team is ready to assist you with booking your chimpanzee trek and other activities. Whether you’re seeking the best accommodation options or need help planning your trip, Trek Africa Gorillas is your trusted partner for a remarkable adventure.
Contact us now to plan your visit to Gishwati Mukura National Park and experience the beauty of Rwanda like never before!
