Seeking to immerse oneself in the natural wonders packed in African Vegetation?! A Forest Canopy Walkway in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda in East Africa is the ultimate thrilling adventure activity that allows travelers to explore the uppermost layer of the jungles.

A forest canopy walkway is one often taken on an elevated walkway or bridge that allows travelers to explore the upper canopy covered with tropical rainforests, and cloud thickets. This layer is home to a diverse range of plants, animals, and insects that live in the treetops.

In Rwanda, this adventurous activity is done in Nyungwe NP which is a protected area located in southwestern Rwanda that has been in existence for several years since 1903 when the German colonial government announced this game park as a reserve.

It covers an area of approximately 1,000 square kilometers. It is one of the most biodiverse places in the world and a nature lover’s paradise, packed with a vast array of flora and fauna.

Being one of the park’s most thrilling experiences, the forest canopy walkway is best carried out under supervision and guidance from park authorities and guides during the dry season which presents visitors with breathtaking views and a unique new perspective on the jungle’s upper treetop at an eye level.

This is often done by taking a walk on a suspended bridge, elevated boardwalks, treetop platforms, rope bridges, or using zip lines, aerial lifts (that give off wonderful aerial views), etc.

Apart from Nyungwe NP, Africa offers numerous jungle strolling opportunities across various countries such as South Africa (Tsitsikamma NP, Daintree Discovery Centre), Ghana (Kakum NP), Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable NP, Mgahinga Gorilla NP), Tanzania (Usambara Mountains, Ngorongoro Conservation Area), Kenya (Aberdare NP), Democratic Republic of Congo (Virunga NP, Garamba NP), Madagascar (Andasibe-Mantadia NP, Ranomafana NP), etc.

In this article, we’ll delve into the facts about Nyungwe NP, what to expect from the canopy skywalk, and the essential information to plan your visit.

Nyungwe Forest National Park

This park located in southwestern Rwanda is a national treasure trove that parks tropical rainforests, and cloud thickets that create a canopy layer that is home to a diverse range of plants, animals, and insects that live in the treetops that make it the best safari destination for a forest canopy walk.

Uniqueness Of Nyungwe Park

Some of the unique features that set this place apart from other parks in Rwanda are;

Oldest Rainforest

Nyungwe Jungle is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, with a history dating back over 8 million years found in Nyungwe the largest national park, covering over 1,000 square kilometers.

• Biodiversity Hotspot

The park is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including over 200 species of huge trees, 300 species of fantastic birds (hornbills, turacos, sunbirds), over 100 species of mammals, a wide range of primates (chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, mangabeys), butterflies, all of which can be seen while on a tree sky walk in Nyungwe jungle.

• Chimpanzee Habitat

Being the best and largest habitat for over 500 chimpanzees in Africa, Nyungwe NP is the ultimate must-visit destination offering opportunities for visitors to view these beautiful creatures while on a jungle tree walk.

• Unique Geology

The park features a unique combination of granite and sandstone rocks, creating a distinctive landscape that makes it unique from other parks on the African continent. These can be seen while on a forest canopy walk.

• Waterfalls And Rivers

Nyungwe is home to several stunning waterfalls and rivers, including the Kamiranzovu Waterfall and the Nyungwe River which can be seen while on a tree sky walk in Nyungwe Park.

1. Ada Accessible

Nyungwe Park in Rwanda has made efforts to improve accessibility for visitors with disabilities with the provision of wheelchair-accessible trails, walkways, restrooms, ramps, near the park accommodation facilities etc.

All these unique aspects make it the perfect destination for a tree stroll!

Forest Canopy Walkways

Visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the dense, lush undergrowth of Nyungwe NP often engage in this tourist activity.

The forms of treetop stroll experiences held in Nyungwe NP include;

•  Nyungwe Canopy Walkway

This is a 200m long and 70m high treetop sky walk that offers breathtaking views of the treetop and the surrounded landscape such as Lake Kivu, primates (L’hoest monkeys), etc.

•     Igishigishigi Canopy Walk

This is a 1.5 km (0.9 miles) route that features treetop hanging bridges 70 m (230 ft) above the ground that involves strolling for around 2-3 hours characterized by moderate and few steep inclines or stairs and offers stunning views of the surrounded hills, trees, and valleys. It is a great option for those who want a shorter and more leisurely canopy walk experience

•  Midland Canopy Walk

This is a 1.5 km (0.9 miles) long treetop climb reaching up about 40-50 meters (131-164 feet) above the ground. It involves strolling for about 1-2 hours and takes you through the eye level or mid-levels or middle of the jungle, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.

•  Murch Canopy Walk

A 2 km (1.2 miles) long treetop climb reaching up to 70 meters (230 feet) above the forest floor with moderate and some steep inclines that typically lasts 2-3 hours and takes you through a variety of undergrowth types, including montane, and cloud thickets where one can expect to see avians, primates, and other small animals.

•   Umuyove Trail Canopy Climb

A 13 km long route reaching up to 40 meters (131 feet) above the ground, lasts 5-6 hours and is characterized by challenging steep inclines or stairs, that take you through a variety of vegetation zones, including montane, bamboo, and cloud thickets.

•  Guided Canopy Tour

A guided tour is an expert-led exploration of the treetop lasting approximately 2-5 hours reaching up to 70 meters (230 feet) above the ground characterized by easy to moderate hikes that take you through the jungle treetop and offer insights into the jungle’s ecology, history, and wildlife. It is a safe and supported experience for those who may be hesitant to venture into the jungle alone.

• Canopy Birdwatching

A specialized treetop stroll focused on spotting birds in their natural habitat. This lasts for typically 2-5 hours and reaches up to 70 meters (230 feet) above the ground, characterized by trails that vary from easy to moderate passing through a variety of undergrowth types, including montane and cloud thickets. This offers opportunities to visitors to spot a variety of bird species, including endemic and migratory birds, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and waterfalls.

Canopy Birdwatching tours are led by experienced guides who are passionate about avians and have extensive knowledge of the jungle’s avifauna. They will help you spot avians, share interesting facts, and provide tips on bird identification.

• Canopy Photography

Guided tours focused on capturing stunning photos of the treetop and wildlife. Typically, it can last 2-5 hours with trails reaching up to 70 meters (230 feet) above the forest floor, characterized by easy to moderate trails.

These are perfect for wild animal spotting (avians, primates, and other small animals) as well as undergrowth type spotting (montane and cloud thickets), picturesque views of the nearby landscape and waterfalls

It’s important to hire expert guides who can provide insights into photography techniques and habitats.

•  Adventure Canopy Walk

A more challenging treetop climb that involves hiking and climbing the off-beaten path to reach the treetop pathway using suspension bridges, ladders, and zip lines, while getting up close and personal with the jungle’s wild species (avians, primates, and other small animals), and vegetation (montane and cloud thickets).

Typically, it lasts 3-5 hours to reach up to 70 meters (230 feet) above the undergrowth floor using the challenging steep inclines or stairs for a longer distance.

•  Night Canopy Walk

A unique opportunity to explore the thick canopies at night and spot nocturnal creatures. This takes around 2-3 hours to reach up to 70 meters (230 feet) above the forest floor on moderately steep inclines and stairs.

Visitors have perfect opportunities for wild animal spotting of nocturnal animals (bushbabies, nightjars, and owls), undergrowth types (montane and cloud thickets), scenic views of the landscape, and waterfalls under the stars

Using expert guides provides insights into the jungle’s nocturnal ecosystem, wild animals, and jungle in a new light or the dark.

Tourists need to carry and use flashlights and night vision goggles to spot nocturnal animals and navigate through the thick canopies.

These forms of treetop climb experiences offer a range of difficulties and lengths, allowing visitors to choose the one that suits their interests and fitness level. It is highly recommended to pack walking sticks, and cameras, hiking shoes among other essentials. Contact us at Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd to plan your next vacation in the park.

Some of the canopy routes in Nyungwe include;

• Canopy Walkway Trail (the most popular treetop pathway, a 1.5km route stretching over 200 meters long and suspended 70-50 meters above the forest floor characterized by fresh air and picturesque views)
• Kamiranzovu Trail (3.5km route situated near the Kamiranzovu Waterfall, offering stunning views of the surrounding jungle)
• Uwinka Forest Trail (2.5km route located in the Uwinka section offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys)
• Gisakura Forest Route (found near the Gisakura Visitor Center it offers views of the surrounding undergrowth and the nearby Gisakura River)
• Imbaraga Path (4km route situated in the Imbaraga section and provides views of the surrounding jungle and the nearby Imbaraga River)
• Igishigishigi Trail (2.5 km long route that takes you through a beautiful and dense undergrowth offering fresh air and stunning views of a wide range of wild species, including avians, primates, and butterflies)
• Muzimu Path (2 km route that takes you through dense undergrowth and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys)
• Umuyove Trail (13km long route that takes you to the highest points like Mount Bigugu, and through a variety of vegetation zones, including montane, bamboo, and cloud thickets)

These walkways are often characterized by;

1. Suspension bridges
2. Elevated boardwalks
3. Platforms on Treetops
4. Rope bridges
5. Zip lines or aerial lifts

Please note having a professional tour guide or park ranger to guide you on this treetop pathway is crucial. And for persons with disabilities, this park is very ada accessible.

Duration And Procedure of Canopy WalkWay

This tourist activity often starts at the Uwinka Park Office and involves a walk on 200-meter-long treetop climbs such as suspended bridges by oneself (self-guided exploration) or guided by tour guides for almost 2-3 hours. These are easy even for first-time hikers.

There are four schedules in a day for this activity with a starting time of 08 am, 10 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm while at night there is one schedule i.e. night walks start at 5.30 pm and till 9 pm.

While on this treetop route, you can see surrounding lakes (lake Kivu), plant species, mountains, valleys, various bird species, L’hoest monkeys, blue monkeys, red tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, and other wild animals.

It’s worth noting that the duration of a treetop stroll varies depending on weather conditions, the time taken to explore surroundings, and the participant’s experience, whether experienced or inexperienced.

Things To See While on A Forest Canopy Walk in Nyungwe NP

While on a treetop hike in Nyungwe NP, visitors can see a variety of things such as;

1)   Forest Floor

The numerous forest floors found in this Nyungwe NP are some of the most wonderful things to see while on a treetop stroll. Some of these are;

• Tropical Rainforest (one of the last remaining tropical rainforests in Africa, with a dense and huge tree, and a wide variety of plant and animal species)
• Montane Vegetation (higher elevations that have montane vegetation, characterized by moss-covered trees, ferns, and orchids)
• Cloud thickets (Nyungwe cloud thickets have a persistent misty atmosphere, supporting a wide range of epiphytes and orchids)
• Bamboo Thickets (these provide a natural habitat for various mammals, including the endangered golden monkeys)
• Swamp Forest (found in low-lying areas, supporting a variety of ground level nature like aquatic plants and animals)
• Mushroom Vegetation (this is home to various species of fungi growing amidst the undergrowth)
• Primary Forest (these have trees that have been left undisturbed for centuries, supporting a vast array of plant and animal life)
• Secondary Forest (these are areas that have regrown after past disturbances, providing a habitat for various species)

2)   Diverse Bird Species

Nyungwe NP is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 300 species, including hornbills, Rwenzori turacos, sunbirds, Yellow-eyed Black flycatchers, etc. These can be seen while on a treetop pathway.

3)   Primates

Spot chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, L’hoest monkeys (endemic to the Albertine rift), black and white colobus monkeys, mangabeys, and other primates swinging through the huge trees. All of these can be viewed while on a treetop stroll in Nyungwe NP.

4)   Waterfalls and Rivers

Visitors can enjoy views of the various waterfalls and rivers in this jungle such as Kamiranzovu Waterfall and other rivers (Nyungwe River, Kagitumba River, Gisakura River) flowing through the Nyungwe NP.

5)   Picturesque Views

Marvel at the dappled light filtering through the treetop above, the surrounding landscape, and the rolling hills, giving off the best stunning views visitors can see while on a treetop hike.

Other activities are done in Nyungwe such as;

• Hiking and trekking
• Birdwatching
• Primate tracking (chimpanzees)
• Waterfall hike
• Cultural tours
• Photography
• Woodland Ecology studies and conservation efforts

All these can be done in Nyungwe with the guidance of park rangers, and after acquiring the perfect and required permits.

Age Limit for Forest Canopy Walk

The minimum age limit for the forest canopy walk is 6 years old, however, children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

For all age groups, a professional guide well conversant with treetop hiking routes in Nyungwe is strongly recommended.

Nyungwe NP Forest Canopy Walk Rules and Regulations

In Nyungwe NP, before embarking on the adventurous tourist activity of jungle walks, park authorities often issue rules and regulations aimed to ensure the safety of visitors is attained and these are,

1. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes
2. Bring water, snacks, and a camera
3. Physical fitness and health are a must
4. Follow the guide’s instructions
5. Avoid overcrowding the bridges (only 6 people are allowed at a time)
6. People afraid of heights or have mobility issues should not partake in treetop climbs.
7. Do not touch or damage plants or trees
8. Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing fauna

Please ensure to adhere with the following issued guidelines, rules, and regulations.

How To Get to Nyungwe National Park

When traveling to Nyungwe to partake in treetop climbs, visitors have several options to choose from such as;

1. By Road: Fly into Kigali International Airport (KGL) and head to Kigali the capital city of Rwanda, drive southwards Kigali-Muhanga-Rusizi road then turn left at the Gisakura signpost then to the Nyungwe NP signpost then to the Uwinka reception centre, approximately 225 km (140 miles), which is approximately a 4–5-hour drive.

Some of the transport means one can use are;

• Use a 4×4 vehicle (especially in the rainy season)
• Use public transportation like buses or minivans (matatus) from Kigali to Nyungwe Park
• Book a safari package with a reputable Rwanda tour operator who can arrange transportation, accommodation, and activities for you
• In case one prefers to self-drive, they can rent a car in Kigali and drive to Nyungwe

It’s important to keep an eye out for park signs and follow them to ensure you reach the park headquarters.

2. By Air: One can also take a domestic flight from Kigali to Kamembe Airport (KME), then drive to Nyungwe (about an hour). This gives visitors a wonderful aerial view of the park and thick canopies.

Please note that domestic flights need to be booked in advance to avoid disappointments!

Where To Stay While on A Forest Canopy Stroll in Nyungwe Forest National Park

While on a treetop hike in Nyungwe NP, visitors can stay at various accommodations ranging from budget to midrange to luxury lodgings in and around the park. Here are some lodging options:

• Nyungwe Forest Lodge

A luxurious lodge with luxurious rooms and suites, each with en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and comfortable furnishings, located within the park, offering comfortable rooms and stunning views. It is a perfect starting point for Guided Jungle walks and hikes, birdwatching, and nature tours, chimpanzee and monkey tracking, treetop climbs on a suspension bridge, etc.

• Uwinka Visitor Center

Offers camping facilities and basic rooms, ideal for those who want budget amenities and looking forward to immersing themselves in nature and other tourist activities such as treetop hikes, birdwatching, etc.

• Nyungwe Top View Hotel

Located on a hilltop in the nearby town of Kibeho, offering comfortable rooms and stunning views of the park. With a restaurant serving both international and local cuisine. It’s a good place for travelers.

• Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel

A luxury hotel located about a kilometer away from Kamembe International Airport and approximately 5 hours from Kigali, Rwanda on a hilltop, with standard Rooms, Family Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, and a Presidential Suite with each room has an en-suite bathroom, a business desk, and seating area that leads to a balcony offering breathtaking views of Lake Kivu etc.

• Eco-Lodges

Choose from several eco-lodges in the park, like Nyungwe Eco-Lodge, Kitabi Eco-Center, Gisakura Guest House, and Gisakura Eco-Lodge, for an environmentally friendly stay.

• Camping

Set up camp within the park for a more rustic and nature-exposed experience. Please note, that camping for children 6-12 years costs approximately $7.5 while adults 13 and above cost about $15.

Remember to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (drier season). Also, consider staying at least two nights to fully have an exhilarating experience of the park’s beauty and activities. Enjoy your stay in Rwanda!

Cost of a Forest Canopy Walk in Nyungwe NP/How much does it cost to walk the canopy in Nyungwe Forest National Park?

Engaging in canopy walks in Nyungwe involves several costs, tariffs, and fees as listed below;

1. Canopy Walk Price

These above are exclusive of park entry fees.

2. Park Entrance Fees

3. Other Fees

Please Note;

• These fees give visitors full-day access to Nyungwe NP
• Children 5 years and below minimum age are provided free entrance.
• Persons aged 13+ years are considered adults and pay full fees to access this place.
• Entrance fees are not charged beyond 3 nights for up to one week
• A porter is a person paid to carry the backpacks, and luggage of travelers while they stroll
• This tourist place is very ada accessible

The cost of a treetop stroll in Nyungwe may range between $40 to $140 per person in case the inclusion of park entrance fees, and tour operators are chosen among other factors.

Best Time to Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park for Forest Canopy Walk

The tourist activity can be done throughout the year, but the best time is during the dry season (June to September and December to February) for clearer views and perfect weather conditions.

It’s strongly recommended to book your Treetop stroll in advance through a reputable tour operator or the Nyungwe Park authorities.

What to Wear for Canopy Walks in Nyungwe Forest – Clothing

When it comes to the packing list, we look at what to wear, and what to carry while heading to Rwanda for forest canopy walks and these include;

These are some of the attires and clothing travelers are strongly encouraged to carry when heading for a tree stroll;

1. Hiking boots/sturdy shoes/hiking shoes
2. Comfortable hiking clothes (moisture-wicking or linen)
3. Waterproof rain jacket
4. Insulating layers (fleece, wool, or synthetic scarfs or neck gaiter)
5. Long trousers and pants
6. Long-sleeved shirts
7. Warm hat and gardening gloves
8. Quick-drying socks
9. Extra underwear and socks

Forest Canopy Walkways Gear

Tourists preparing for tree hikes ought to carry gear used in hikes and treks such as

1. Waterproof Backpack
2. Water bottle or hydration pack or lunch box
3. Walking stick (optional)
4. Binoculars (optional)
5. Extra batteries (optional)
6. Reusable bag for carrying personal essentials

Packing List for Canopy Walking Safaris in Rwanda -Personal Essentials

For personal essentials and utilities, travelers are strongly advised to carry some of these items for a smooth trip;

1. Passport and copies with country visas
2. Travel insurance documents
3. First-aid kit
4. Medications and prescriptions from recommended doctors
5. Sunscreen and insect repellent
6. Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, mouth cleansers etc.)
7. Contact lenses/glasses (if applicable)
8. Extra cash (preferably the Rwandan francs used for tipping, buying crafts, and souvenirs) and credit cards (Visa enabled for bigger purchases)

Additional Items

These are some of the optional things a visitor may pack, such as;

1. Snacks (energy bars, biscuits)
2. Novel, reading material or a book
3. Map or GPS reader
4. Phone/camera Portable charger

Travelers are advised to check with your Rwanda tour operator or park authorities for specific requirements and recommendations before embarking on this trip to the land of a thousand hills-Rwanda.

Rwanda Tour Operators for Canopy Walking Safaris in Rwanda

When planning to embark on a forest canopy walkway in Nyungwe in Rwanda while on a safari and considering using tour companies for a hassle-free trip, consider contacting some of the best Rwanda tour operators for the best-customized safari packages.

a)    Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd

b)    Wild Gorilla Safaris

c)     Gorilla Safari Rwanda

d)    Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris

e)     Gorilla Tracking Rwanda

f)      Africa Safaris Tours

These are some of the best tour operators with the best reviews online, affordable safari packages, and customized itineraries suitable for all types of travelers.

FAQ For Canopy Walking Safaris in Rwanda [Frequently Asked Questions]

1. What is the purpose of a canopy walk?

The purpose of a canopy walkway is to provide a unique and immersive experience for travelers to explore the upper levels of the Nyungwe jungle, typically the tree and emergent layers, where many species of plants and animals live.

2. How long is a canopy walk? /How long is the Nyungwe canopy walk?

The length of forest canopy walks can vary greatly depending on the location, design, and purpose of the walk with short treetop climbs typically lasting 30 minutes to 1 hour (100-500 meters), medium treetop climbs typically lasting 1-3 hours (500-1,500 meters), long treetop climbs typically lasting 3-5 hours (1,500-3,000 meters), and extended treetop climbs typically lasting 5-8 hours or more (3,000-6,000 meters or more).

3. What is the attraction found in Nyungwe Forest National Park?

The forest canopy walkways are some of the major attractions in the park as they allow travelers to spot a variety of wildlife (chimpanzees), waterfalls (Gisakura Waterfall, Kamiranzovu Waterfall), over 300 avians, tea estates, etc.

4. Why is the Nyungwe forest important?

Nyungwe is one of the most biodiverse places, rainforest conservation areas in central Africa and the world, with over 1,000 species of plants (peat bogs, moors, tickets, grasslands) that act as natural habitats to over 300 species of avians, and 75 species of mammals.

5. How to go canopy walk?

To go on a treetop stroll you need to,

• Choose a reputable tour operator conversant with Nyungwe NP
• Meet age/health/physical requirements
• Wear suitable clothing/gear
• Listen to safety briefing/instructions
• Follow guides to the park entrance
• Wear safety gear (harness/helmet)
• Walk along the suspended walkwayr
• Follow the guide’s guidance
• Enjoy views/take photos!

For a thrilling adventure while visiting Rwanda Nyungwe Park for tree climbs, contact us at Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd today to book your next safari in the best place in the world.