Discover Gishwati-Mukura National Park, Rwanda
Gishwati-Mukura National Park is Rwanda’s newest national park, officially opened to the public on December 1, 2020. Located in the Western Province, it spans the Ngororero and Rutsiro districts, covering about 3,558 hectares. This park is part of the Congo-Nile divide forest, a fragmented montane rainforest that once stretched across central Africa. Today, it offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the last remaining central African montane rainforests.
What Makes Gishwati-Mukura National Park Special?
The park is renowned for its biodiversity, featuring over 60 species of trees, including bamboo and hardwoods, and around 84 bird species. Unlike the more famous Nyungwe Forest, Gishwati-Mukura is less developed, offering a more raw and intimate experience with nature. The park’s conservation efforts have been crucial in protecting these ecosystems, which were threatened by deforestation and illegal mining activities following the 1994 genocide.
While the park is not home to mountain gorillas, it does host a significant population of eastern chimpanzees in the Gishwati Forest. These elusive creatures can be observed along the well-developed hiking trails. Mukura Forest, on the other hand, remains less explored, with plans underway to develop hiking trails and activities.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Gishwati-Mukura National Park is during the dry season, from June to September. This period offers pleasant weather and better conditions for hiking and wildlife observation. However, the wet season, from October to May, transforms the park into a lush green landscape, ideal for those interested in bird watching and witnessing the park’s vibrant flora.
Getting There
Gishwati-Mukura National Park is approximately 100 kilometers from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Here are your options for reaching the park:
- By Air: Fly into Kigali International Airport. From there, hire a private car or taxi for the three-hour drive to the park. The journey offers scenic views of Rwanda’s rolling hills.
- By Road: Take a bus from Kigali to the nearby town of Rubavu. From Rubavu, you can hire a local guide or taxi to reach the park.
Activities in Gishwati-Mukura National Park
1. Chimpanzee Trekking
In Gishwati Forest, you can embark on a trek to observe eastern chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll navigate the forest’s trails, learning about these fascinating primates and the park’s conservation efforts.
2. Bird Watching
With over 84 bird species, Gishwati-Mukura is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Look out for colorful turacos and other rare forest-dwelling species. Bring your binoculars for the best experience.
3. Hiking
Explore the park’s well-developed hiking trails in Gishwati Forest. These trails offer access to waterfalls and provide a chance to immerse yourself in the park’s diverse ecosystems. Mukura Forest trails are still under development, promising future opportunities for exploration.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park offers a unique and less commercialized experience compared to other Rwandan parks. While it may lack some amenities, its raw beauty and biodiversity make it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
