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Gishwati-Mukura National Park is perhaps Rwanda’s remotest and undiscovered safari destination. As a matter of fact, it is the newest of the 4 Rwanda Parks and is a special place to visit for unforgettable primate encounters in the wild. What it may lack in gorilla tracking or wildlife safaris, it by far makes up in its unmissable chimpanzee and gorilla treks, stunning scenery, and seclusion/tranquility. Officially gazetted in 2015, the National Park is an exceptional chimpanzee-tracking safari park and is also perfect for birding tours.

Where is Gishwati-Mukura located?

Located in the Northwestern pocket of Rwanda, Gishwati-Mukura National Park Rwanda is considered to be the most spectacular destination for chimpanzee and birding tours and is a wildlife/nature lover’s dream.

It’s remote, 3400 hectares includes a Protected Area formed by merging two rainforest reserves- Gishwati and Mukura. The Protected Area is situated in the Rutsiro and Ngororero districts in the Western Province of Rwanda. It sprawls to the scenic ridges of the Congo Nile, making it one of the best places to find Albertine Rift endemic species.

This 34-square-kilometer Protected Area also sits at an elevation range of 2000 to 3000 meters and is dominated by the scenic natural rainforest. Gishwati-Mukura National Park was officially opened for tourism in 2019, attracting primate and bird enthusiasts from across the World.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park attractions

Wildlife

Renowned for its abundant wildlife, Gishwati-Mukura National Park is a living gallery of natural wonders. Visitors are treated to sights of several primate species including black and white Colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, chimpanzees, vervet monkeys, L’Hoests monkeys, and Olive baboons. Wildlife enthusiasts also delight in the impressive array of other iconic wildlife species such as black-fronted duikers, tree hyraxes, bushbucks, Serval cats, civets, red river hogs, forest frogs, snakes, chameleons, and more.

Bird species

Every expedition into Gishwati-Mukura National Park is an opportunity to witness the interplay between nature’s artistry and its plethora of birds, totaling over 232 species that survive within Gishwati Forest as well as 163 species that call Mukura Forest home. This Park’s ecological balance supports a display of life, from the great blue Turacos, Mountain yellow warblers, red-throated alethe, martial eagles, Rwenzori batis, Grauer’s swamp, blue-headed sunbirds, Purple-breasted sunbird, the white-necked raven bird, Grey-crowned cranes, strange weaves, Regal sunbird, dusky crimsonwing, wood hoopoes, black-billed Turacos, and more.

Tourist Activities to do in Gishwati-Mukura National Park Rwanda

Gishwati-Mukura National Park is not only a haven for animals and birds, but also a space filled with diverse outdoor opportunities designed to enhance the visitor experience. From chimpanzee tracking, birding tours, and walking safaris, to cycling tours. Each adventure is structured to provide a balanced mix of thrill and serenity, ensuring that travelers experience both serene moments of reflection and excitement within the natural surroundings of the Protected Area.

Chimpanzee tracking

The main drawing card for visiting Gishwati-Mukura National Park is its community of 20 chimpanzees. A guided chimpanzee tracking adventure is a great way to get up close and personal with our closest relatives in the animal Kingdom. Guided chimp treks in this Park provide an opportunity to not only see the Great Apes but also enjoy in-depth exploration of how they behave and take pictures in their natural habitat.

While on these chimpanzee tracking tours, expect random encounters of other primates such as blue monkeys, L’Hoests monkeys, and Olive baboons, among others.

Bird watching tours

For bird enthusiasts, Gishwati-Mukura National Park is a Paradise, offering a chance to see more than 232 species within Gishwati Forest and 163 species in Mukura Forest. The Protected Area’s varied landscapes (from open savannah grassland mixed forest, and bamboo forest, to swamp forest) support populations of martial eagle, great blue Turacos, stripe-breasted tits, grey-crowned cranes, regal sunbird, wood hoopoe, purple-breasted sunbird, white-necked raven, black-billed Turacos, dusky crimsonwing, strange weavers, and more.

Nature walks

Guided nature walks allow you to connect with the Gishwati-Mukura National Park more intimately. Led by armed Park Rangers, these walks let you explore the Protected Area on foot, focusing on smaller details like plants, butterflies, insects, and tracks. It is a whole different perspective from what you are accustomed to.

Cycling tours

For adventure seekers perspective to exploring Gishwati-Mukura National Park, cycling tours are unparalleled. Conducted along the Congo-Nile trail, expect to relish jaw-dropping views of Lake Kivu and the verdant Nyungwe Forest. Cycling tours along this Trail provides the opportunity to experience what the remotest part of Rwanda has to offer the world, and while cycling, you will observe the locals as they go about their daily routines.

Cultural encounters

The Gishwati-Mukura National Park is not just about wildlife and animals, as it is home to vibrant communities. Visit a nearby traditional village to enjoy close interaction with the locals in their communities, and learn about the interesting traditions and cultures of the people.

Best time to visit Gishwati Mukura for a Rwanda safari

Choosing the optimal time for a visit to Gishwati-Mukura Game Park Rwanda is essential to fully appreciate its phenomenal landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Generally, this Protected Area flourishes during the cooler, dry seasons when vegetation recedes and forest trails are less muddy/or slippery. This season provides fewer challenges when maneuvering through the forest while enjoying outdoor activities.

While the wet season (March to May, and October to November) comes with long rains, it is still a wonderful time to visit Gishwati-Mukura National Park, especially for those looking to avoid crowds and take advantage of lower rates. The vegetation is verdant and bird watching is at its best.

Places to stay

Gishwati Mukura Game Park has few accommodation options, with the Gishwati Lodge being the most popular. It has 6 rustic Forest Cottages and is capable of accommodating up to 12 visitors per night. Other options are Hope Guesthouse for guests looking for camping or self-catering, the far-flung Kivu Paradise Resort, Inzu Lodge, and more.

How to access Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Gishwati-Mukura National Park Rwanda is easily accessible via a network of well-established roads that connect Kigali International Airport to the Park’s entrance. Visitors can explore a variety of transportation options at their disposal, ranging from private vehicles to rental cars. This flexibility in travel means that reaching the National Park is both safe and convenient.  It takes 3 to 4 hours of driving from Kigali to get to Gishwati-Mukura. Thanks to its location, travelers can drive from other destinations like Volcanoes National Park to Gishwati-Mukura in 2-3 hours.

You can also take a Helicopter flight from Kigali to Gishwati-Mukura in 45 minutes.