Canopy Walk in Nyungwe: An Experience to Remember.
Canopy Walk in Nyungwe: Canopy walks are one of the most exciting tourist activities in Rwanda, especially within Nyungwe Forest National Park. This adventurous activity involves walking through a bridge suspended above the ridges and tree canopies. Tourist walk as they watch species that thrive within the largest and oldest surviving verdant rainforest in Africa. The canopy walk was first launched in 2010, an adventure that truly excited masses. It took three forms that is; the 23 meter long, 45 meters and the 90 meters section that is over 70 meters high.
Nyungwe Forest’s Popularity.
Nyungwe Forest seen from above.
The forest is popular for being one of the few forests in Africa that survived through the last Ice age. This explains why it is a one of a kind biodiversity hot spot. The lush forest is still raw and boasts of some of the rarest species.
Interestingly, there are 80 mammal species sheltered within the 1000-square-kilometer Protected Area and these include 12 primate species. Of these primate species, chimpanzees are the most sought-after.
However, you may catch a glimpse of; Angolan colobus monkeys, L’Hoests monkeys, Olive baboons, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys to name a few. Here, also 320 bird species are found and these include 23 Albertine Rift endemics. The canopy walk provides views of treetops and opportunities to sight some of these animals and birds.
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The Nyungwe canopy walkway is part of the Igishigishigi trail (one of the 15 forest trails within the Park). It is about 160 meters long, and about 70 meters high. It can also be accessed via the Umuyove or Imbaraga hiking trails. While primates are normally sighted during this walk, it is not guaranteed and for this reason, travelers interested in seeing primates can sign-up for the chimpanzee and monkey tracking adventures, or better still forest walks where lots of them are sighted.
How much does the canopy walk in Nyungwe cost?
Travelers interested in undertaking the canopy walk in Nyungwe forest are required to first acquire permits and these cost only $60 per person per walk. However, the fee includes a Ranger but doesn’t include Park entry fees and tips. What makes it even exciting is the fact that even children aged 6 years can undertake the once in a lifetime adventure.
How Nyungwe canopy walks are done
The Canopy walks in Nyungwe Forest are done in four sessions. That is; starting at 8am, 10am, 1pm and 3pm. Each of these sessions begins from Uwinka Reception Center. Here participants are briefed on what to expect from the activity and thereafter assigned an experienced Ranger guide. After the two-hour adventure, visitors move back to their Lodges will excitement and amazing views.
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When to undertake the Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest?
The Canopy walks in Nyungwe Forest are available throughout the year but it is always advisable to undertake it during the dry season (January, February, June, July, August, September and December) because this canopy walk is part of the Igishigishigi trail that first involves walking through the forest floor. For this reason, there are lower chances of walking through muddy and slippery places. Canopy walks are less popular during the Wet Seasons. This is mainly because the forest floor becomes muddy and slippery due to heavy downpours. However, this is the best time for photography because vegetation becomes greener and the sky brighter as it is cleared of dust.
What to bring for the Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest?
The Canopy walk involves some bit of hiking and walking through dense forest. Therefore, don’t forget your rain jacket, hiking boots, energy-giving snacks, re-usable water bottle, insect repellant, hat, sunglasses, cotton socks, waterproof backpack, warm sweater, walking stick, and many others.
Interestingly, Canopy walks are not the only activity you can enjoy in/or around Nyungwe Forest National Park. There is a handful of activities you can engage in. These include; chimpanzee trekking, bird watching, tea plantation tours, forest hiking, monkey tracking as well as cultural tours around the Park.
