The lush and diverse habitat is famously home to a large population of chimpanzees and endangered monkeys, including the owl-faced monkey and the golden monkey, of which sightings are reported, but unverified. There is nothing more special than spending time with a primate of any variety; their human-like qualities and individual quirks leave travellers humbled, grounded and in awe of the natural world and these tremendous species which call it home.
The forest was cited by Birdlife International as “the most important site for biodiversity conservation in Rwanda” for its 275 recorded bird species of which 25 are endemic. Home to a myriad of stunning orchids, butterflies, moths and other fascinating creatures and insects, the Government of Rwanda declared Nyungwe a national park in 2005, affording it the highest level of protection in the country. The park itself covers approximately 970 km² of rainforest, bamboo, grassland, swamps and bogs, and is one of the last mountain rainforest habitats on the planet.
Rwanda is an astonishing country. With a traumatic recent history, it is a testament to the Rwandan people’s strength of character that it stands today as a wonderful place for tourists to visit and enjoy. The scenery is beautiful, the primate viewing exceptional and the cities pristine. It is not just the primates which are an attraction here, but the country as a whole; it is a fascinating place to get lost in for a week or two.
Rwanda is an astonishing country. The scenery is beautiful, the primate viewing exceptional and the cities pristine.
Volcanoes National Park is part of the Virunga Massif that straddles three countries – Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
Although Rwanda is better known for gorilla viewing rather than game viewing, Akagera National Park is beginning to flourish as an exceptional place for a safari.