Gishwati–Mukura National Park – Rwanda’s Hidden Forest Gem

Gishwati–Mukura National Park is Rwanda’s newest and rapidly emerging protected area, offering a unique rainforest experience in a quiet and less-touristed setting. Located in the western part of the country, this park is known for its dense montane forests, rich biodiversity, and ongoing conservation success stories. Though smaller and less famous than Volcanoes or Nyungwe, Gishwati–Mukura provides intimate wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and opportunities to connect with Rwanda’s forest ecosystems in a more personal and tranquil way.

Location and General Overview

Gishwati–Mukura National Park is situated in western Rwanda, spanning parts of Nyamasheke and Rutsiro Districts. The park covers approximately 31 square kilometers, making it one of the smaller national parks in the country. It is located roughly 4–5 hours’ drive from Kigali, offering accessibility for travelers who want to explore Rwanda’s western forests along with other destinations such as Lake Kivu or Nyungwe Forest.

The park combines two previously separate forest reserves, Gishwati Forest and Mukura Forest, to form a contiguous protected area aimed at conserving biodiversity and restoring degraded forest lands.

Forests and Landscapes

Gishwati–Mukura is dominated by montane rainforest, bamboo zones, and patches of grasslands. The forest sits at elevations between 1,600 and 2,400 meters, with steep hills and valleys creating a dramatic and scenic terrain.

The park’s rivers and streams contribute to its lush vegetation and play a critical role in Rwanda’s water systems. Its compact size allows visitors to experience a variety of habitats on short treks, from dense forest undergrowth to misty bamboo zones and open glades.

Primates and Wildlife

Despite its small size, Gishwati–Mukura National Park is home to a remarkable variety of primates, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

Chimpanzees have been recently reintroduced into the park and can be tracked under supervised programs, offering the chance to witness their social behavior in a recovering forest ecosystem.

Other primates include:

• L’Hoest’s monkeys

• Blue monkeys

• Black-and-white colobus monkeys

The park also supports populations of forest duikers, bushbucks, and numerous small mammals.

Birdlife

Gishwati–Mukura is a haven for birdwatchers, hosting over 150 recorded bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics.

Notable birds include:

• Great blue turaco

• Red-faced woodland warbler

• Dusky crimsonwing

• Black-billed turaco

The forest’s intact canopy and understory provide critical habitat for both resident and migratory bird species, making it a rewarding destination for bird enthusiasts.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Gishwati–Mukura National Park offers several short and moderate trekking trails, ideal for visitors seeking close encounters with the forest. Guided walks allow travelers to explore dense forest, observe wildlife, and learn about conservation efforts.

The trails are suitable for both casual nature lovers and more serious hikers. Visitors can trek through bamboo zones, along streams, and up to viewpoints overlooking the park’s scenic valleys and surrounding landscapes.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

The park experiences a cool, wet climate, typical of montane forests. Temperatures generally range from 12°C to 20°C, with frequent mist and rainfall throughout the year.

Best time to visit:

• Dry seasons: June–September and December–February – ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing

• Wet seasons: March–May and October–November – forest is lush, trails may be slippery, birdlife is abundant

Why Visit Gishwati–Mukura National Park

Gishwati–Mukura National Park offers an intimate and authentic rainforest experience in Rwanda. From chimpanzee tracking and birdwatching to peaceful forest walks and scenic viewpoints, the park allows visitors to connect with nature in a tranquil, less-crowded setting.