GISHWATI MUKURA NATIONAL PARK
This is the newest of Rwanda’s national parks and has a total area of 34km2 combining its two divided parts i.e. the larger and the smaller Mukura. Gishwati is home to a group of 20 chimpanzees which live alongside golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s and Blue Monkeys. Birds are well represented too, 232 species have been seen at Gishwati and 163 at Mukura, among them Albertine Rift Endemic species and forest specialists. The park is currently part of an ambitious landscape restoration program. The formalization of its National Park status in 2015 aims to help redress the balance, to increase the number of trees to improve soil fertility, stabilize slopes and regulate stream flow. It will also contribute to improving the livelihoods of the population living in the surrounding areas, which in turn offers the forest a better chance of regeneration in tandem with the potential to raise living standards in the longer term.
Best time to visit
June to September the trails are drier and its sunny hence easier to hike
October to May are the best for chimpanzee tracking
Note: The park is not yet open to visitors but a network of walking trails is planned. As soon as the park is open, you’ll be the first to know
Highlights
- The main activities in the park are include a guided nature hike, guided chimp and monkey tracking, bird watching and a visit to the waterfalls.
- Community-based activities include a farm stay, a live cultural dance, making handicrafts, beekeeping, a tea plantation tour and the chance to learn from traditional healers, who use natural plants to support modern medicine and synthesized drugs.
Our Favourite Properties
Gishwati Lodge
This new eco-lodge is located deep in the Gishwati Forest and hosts a total of six cottages which can hold up to twelve guests. The lodge was planned for opening in 2018 but we understand that there are ongoing talks between the management and the Rwanda Development Board to finalize on the plans. The area around this lodge is set to be very interesting. A good proportion of the profits made from this camp are expected to go towards conservation of the area and its wildlife. Guests visiting this eco-lodge will definitely enjoy the experience considering the wide range of activities they will be engaged in. These incorporate chimpanzee treks, nature walks, bird watch, sightseeing the picturesque landscapes and many more.
More attractions
