Gishwati–Mukura National Park in Rwanda

Gishwati–Mukura National Park in Rwanda

Gishwati–Mukura National Park in Rwanda.  The Park, Rwanda’s newest and least-explored national park. With Wild Planet, discover what makes this park special—from its rare wildlife and birdlife to the best activities, accommodation options, travel tips, and the ideal time to visit.

Overview of Gishwati–Mukura National Park

Gishwati–Mukura National Park is Rwanda’s fourth and newest national park, officially gazetted in 2015 and opened to visitors on 1 December 2020. The park protects a fragile yet remarkable montane rainforest ecosystem and is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, including over 60 tree species, diverse primates, and an impressive number of bird species.

Located in Ngororero and Rutsiro districts in Rwanda’s Western Province, the park covers approximately 3,558 hectares. Gishwati and Mukura were once at risk of total destruction due to deforestation, farming, and illegal mining following the 1994 genocide. Conservation efforts later united the two forests into one protected national park, safeguarding one of the last remnants of Central African montane rainforest.

History and Conservation Significance

Gishwati–Mukura forms part of the Congo–Nile Divide Forest, which historically stretched from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Burundi. Today, only fragments remain—namely Gishwati Forest, Mukura Forest, Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda, and Kibira National Park in Burundi.

Although Gishwati and Mukura belong to the same park, they lie about 50 kilometers apart. Conservation plans aim to reforest the land between them, eventually reconnecting the forests and possibly creating a corridor linking Gishwati–Mukura to Nyungwe Forest.

Gishwati Forest vs. Mukura Forest

• Gishwati Forest:
  This is the park’s primary visitor area. It features developed hiking trails, waterfalls, and a population of eastern chimpanzees. Most park activities currently take place here.
• Mukura Forest:
  Mukura remains largely untouched and closed to tourism. The government is working to develop trails and visitor infrastructure, and wildlife research is still ongoing.

Wildlife in Gishwati–Mukura National Park

Mammals and Primates

The park is especially rich in primates, making it a top destination for primate lovers. Species found here include:

• Eastern chimpanzees
• Golden monkeys
• L’Hoest’s monkeys
• Blue monkeys
• Black-and-white colobus monkeys
• Vervet monkeys
• Baboons

Other mammals include duikers, hyraxes, mongooses, and several small forest species.

Birdlife in Gishwati–Mukura

Gishwati–Mukura National Park is a birding hotspot, home to over 230 recorded bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics. Mukura Forest alone hosts more than 160 species.

Notable birds include:

• Rwenzori turaco
• Regal sunbird
• Mountain yellow warbler
• Rwenzori batis
• Grauer’s swamp warbler
• Martial eagle
• Dusky crimsonwing
• Purple-breasted sunbird

Things to Do in Gishwati Forest

Chimpanzee Trekking

Gishwati Forest is home to approximately 35 eastern chimpanzees. These chimpanzees are not yet habituated, meaning sightings are not guaranteed and close encounters are rare. Trekking focuses on conservation awareness and experiencing chimpanzees in a truly wild setting.

Hiking and Nature Walks

The park offers several guided hiking trails of varying difficulty. Trails pass through dense rainforest, across ridges, and past scenic waterfalls. All hikes take place with a qualified park guide, included in the park entrance fee.

Bird Watching

Birding in Gishwati Forest rewards visitors with rare and endemic species. The park provides bird lists and trail maps, and professional bird guides can be arranged in advance through the park office.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Golden monkeys roam the forest in large groups and offer an exciting trekking experience. Treks start early in the morning with park rangers who track the monkeys in advance. This activity must be pre-booked.

Visiting Gishwati–Mukura National Park

Currently, only Gishwati Forest is open to visitors due to limited infrastructure in Mukura Forest. All park activities must be arranged through the park office, located along the main road near Rubavu.

Park management is a collaboration between Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Forest of Hope Association, and Wilderness Safaris. Access to the park is linked to accommodation arrangements, particularly stays at the Forest of Hope Guest House.

Best Time to Visit

Gishwati–Mukura National Park is accessible year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry seasons:

• June to September (long dry season)
• December to February (short dry season)

Getting There

By road, Gishwati–Mukura lies about 2–3 hours from Kigali. Wild Planet recommends using a 4×4 vehicle for comfort and reliability, especially during the rainy season.

Health and Safety

• Guides carry a first-aid kit, radios, and mobile communication devices
• Visitors should inform guides of any medical conditions in advance
• Helicopter evacuation is available through Akagera Aviation in case of emergencies

Accommodation Options

Gishwati Lodge (Luxury)

A high-end eco-lodge with six forest villas, accommodating up to 15 guests. The lodge offers comfort, privacy, and quick access to chimpanzee and golden monkey trekking.

Forest of Hope Guest House & Campsite

A budget-friendly option near the forest, offering:

• Roofed camping platforms
• Shared toilets and showers
• Fireplaces and barbecue areas
• Self-catering facilities

Nearby Alternatives

Visitors may also stay in Rubavu (Lake Kivu) or near Nyungwe Forest National Park and travel to Gishwati–Mukura as part of a wider itinerary.

Plan Your Visit with Wild Planet

Wild Planet specializes in tailor-made Rwanda safaris and nature experiences, including guided tours to Gishwati–Mukura National Park. Whether you are interested in primates, birding, hiking, or conservation travel, we are ready to design the perfect itinerary for you.

Contact Wild Planet today for more information, expert advice, and customized tour packages.