Where to see Primates in Rwanda (Volcanoes &Nyungwe)

Where to see Primates in Rwanda? (Volcanoes &Nyungwe)

Here is Where to see Primates in Rwanda. Rwanda is one of the few countries in Africa gifted with elegant climate and weather, glorious peerless savannah plains, and unique beautiful animals, mammals, and birds for viewing and studying. Rwanda mainly has three incomparable national parks including Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, and Akagera National Park unequaled to the rest of the world.

These three national parks are the breath of tourism in Rwanda, operating under the Rwanda Development Board with support and monitoring by the government of Rwanda. Every national park has unparalleled tourism attractions, environment, weather, and magnificent wildlife species. According to statistics, the Peerless Volcanoes National Park is the most visited safari park in the country due to its rich inimitable history of being the oldest national park in Africa. In matchless Nyungwe National Park, you get to see a bunch of inimitable chimpanzees and primates which are rarely found in the region of Africa. With incomparable Akagera National Park, the place is gifted with natural harbours, elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and zebras to mention but a few.

At the Inimitable Volcanoes National Park, visitors can see different unequalled animal species like Nile crocodiles, giraffes, and hippos, and spot zebras, while having a beautiful self-drive safari in the park. At Nyungwe National Park, tourists get into this beautiful forest and trek chimpanzees, forest bird walks, and hiking in the forest on the safari tour. Volcanoes National Park is blessed with a tremendous and beautiful range of mountains.

Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda Gorilla Trekking

Volcanoes National Park is 160 square kilometres in size; it is the oldest national park in Africa, established in 1929 as the Albert National Park.

Volcanoes National Park is found in the northwest of Rwanda commonly known as the home of the endangered mountain gorilla with more mountain ecosystems which demonstrates the grassland and swampy bamboo forest.

Volcanoes National Park is commonly known as ‘’parc des Volcano’’, named after a bunch of volcanoes making up Virunga massif at Karimbi 4,507m above alongside Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura. Along the boundaries of this national park, you find Buhanga eco-park one of the oldest forests and Musanze curves formed back over 62 million years. Volcanoes National Park is found in the northern province of Rwanda state in a place known as Musanze alongside the Virunga conservational area.

Volcano National Park is a home of rare mountain gorillas and a rich mosaic of the montane ecosystem, which embraces evergreen and bamboo forests, open grassland, swamps, and health. In 1967 famous for mountain gorillas, the American zoologist, Dian Fossey, who had been doing research on Mountain Gorillas in the forests of the Congo, fled from insecurity and established her research base at a place between Visoke and Karisimbi volcanoes, now known as the Karisoke Research Centre, Fossey spearheaded the conservation campaign of the Mountain Gorillas and mobilized resources to fight against poaching; a fight she continued until she was murdered in 1985. She is buried at the Karisoke Research Centre, next to the grave of her favourite gorilla, Digit.

The Volcanoes National Park is home to not only the Mountain Gorillas but also Golden Monkeys, Spotted Hyena, Buffaloes, Elephants, Black-fronted Duiker, and Bushbuck. Volcanoes Nd Bushbuck. Volcanoes National Park has almost 200 bird species including 29 endemics to the Rwenzori Mountains and the Virungas.

Volcanoes National Park is only a 2-hour drive from Kigali, and as such, allows people to visit the Volcanoes Park for just one day and go on a Gorilla Trek. Volcanoes National Park opens at 7 am; unfortunately, there is no public transport to the park gate from Kigali. In addition to Gorilla Trekking, one of the more popular activities is hiking Karisimbi Volcano (3,800 meters). Also, there is a one-day Mount Bisoke volcano hike, visiting Dian Fossey’s research centre and the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera.

The Mountain Gorillas are the most sought-after safari adventure in Africa; these primates only exist in Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The permit fees are higher than any other wildlife permit, first to limit the number of people visiting, to limit stress on these apes and on their habitat, which might result in their change of behaviour or even their death. Secondly, the fees are used to help sustain the livelihood of the Mountain Gorillas. There is a maximum of 8 people per day per gorilla group, which low numbers help.

To do this you must follow all rules below;

I feel a fever or any illness, when you’re in the park please stay behind.
Avoid leaving any rubbish in the park
Keep your voice low until you’re way 200 meters but it’s okay to ask questions.
Always move slowly and carefully when taking pictures and flash photography is not allowed.
Always wash your hands before you head out to gorillas
No eating or drinking while near gorillas to reduce the risk of disease transmission.

The Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in the southwestern part of Rwanda, is a captivating destination renowned for its ancient montane rainforest, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty. Here’s an overview of what makes Nyungwe Forest National Park so special:

Montane Rainforest: At Nyungwe Forest National Park, visitors have the opportunity to explore one of the largest and oldest montane rainforests in Africa. The forest is incredibly biodiverse, with a canopy that towers over 50 meters high in some areas. It’s a haven for a vast array of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the region.

Primate Encounters: Nyungwe Forest is home to 13 different primate species, making it a paradise for primate enthusiasts. The park is particularly famous for its large population of chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. Guided treks offer visitors the chance to track these remarkable creatures through the dense forest, observing their behaviour and interactions in their natural habitat.

Birdwatching: With over 300 bird species recorded within its boundaries, Nyungwe Forest National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. From colourful turacos and trogons to elusive forest-dwelling species, the park offers endless opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts to spot and photograph a diverse array of avian life.

Canopy Walkway: One of the highlights of visiting Nyungwe Forest is the Canopy Walkway, a suspended bridge that allows visitors to walk among the treetops for a unique perspective of the forest. The canopy walk offers breathtaking views of the forest canopy and provides an opportunity to spot birds and other wildlife from above.

Hiking and Nature Trails: Nyungwe Forest National Park boasts an extensive network of hiking and nature trails that cater to all levels of fitness and interests. Whether you’re looking for a stroll through the forest or a challenging trek to a waterfall or viewpoint, there’s a trail for you. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to encounter a variety of plant and animal species while immersing yourself in the tranquillity of the forest.

Cultural Experiences: In addition to its natural wonders, Nyungwe Forest National Park is also rich in cultural heritage. Visitors can learn about the traditions and customs of the local communities that call the forest home, including the ancient practices of beekeeping and traditional medicine.

Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re exploring the lush forest, tracking primates, or marvelling at the views from the canopy walkway, Nyungwe never fails to captivate and inspire those who visit. These details of Where to see Primates in Rwanda will.