Chimpanzee Sectors in Nyungwe National Park
Everything you must know about chimpanzee sectors in Nyungwe National Park. When planning a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is the ideal location to see these remarkable primates. Chimpanzees are sizable primates that share approximately 98% of their DNA with humans. The chimpanzees tracked in Nyungwe National Park reside in family groups usually habituated to acclimate to human observers. This habituation process typically spans around two years and is conducted by a team of researchers. These habituated chimpanzees inhabit various sectors of the park within their communities. Some of the sectors where chimpanzees can be found include:
Gisovu Sector
The Gisovu sector houses the Gisovu chimpanzee family, located in the main Nyungwe forest that visitors typically encounter during their safaris. This sector is situated in the more secluded parts of Gisovu and represents one of the newest areas for travelers in Nyungwe National Park. Members of this sector are newly accustomed and therefore not very familiar with human presence. It is located near Kibuye town, which lies to the north of Nyungwe Forest National Park. Tracking this chimpanzee in this sector is challenging for travelers since the chimpanzees are not used to the human presence and usually flee away. Though difficult, it is made up of about 60 members. Visit one of Nyungwe National Park’s best chimpanzee sectors now and create everlasting memories.
Where to stay for chimpanzee tracking in Gisovu?
While tracking chimpanzees in the Nyungwe National Park in the Gisovu sector, travelers usually stay in accommodation facilities in Kibuye Town. These facilities include the Rwiza village guest house, Inn on the Lake, Kivu Macho Eco Lodge, The Kay Sun Hotel, Moriah Hill Resort, Home Siant Jane, Rebo Kivu Resort, and many others. Tracking the Gisovu family allows combining the chimpanzee trekking with the Lake Kivu.
Uwinka sector
Uwinka is by far one of the best chimpanzee sectors in Nyungwe National Park. Located centrally in the Nyungwe Forest National Park, this is one of the park’s largest ape groups. Chimpanzee tracking begins at the Uwinka Park offices within the main forest. The tracking typically starts around 5:30 AM, and encountering this family of chimpanzees can often be quite challenging for travelers on safaris in Rwanda.
Where to stay for chimpanzee trekking in Uwinka?
Despite the many challenges travelers face in this region, several accommodation options are available for those tracking this family. Travelers must have tracking permits and stay in designated facilities. Accommodations near the Uwinka sector include One & Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Lodge, Kitabi Eco Centre, and Gisuka Guest Family Hostel.
Cyamundongo sector
This sector is in the Cyamundongo forest, part of the park’s lush, dense woodlands. Here, travelers on safari can encounter more than 30 chimpanzees. It is among the easier groups to track due to its smaller size. While following the chimpanzees in this area, travelers often spot the L’hoests monkey, Mona monkeys, and colobus monkeys.
Where to stay in the Cyamudongo sector of Nyungwe Forest National Park?
Travelers planning to track the Cyamudongo sector of the chimpanzee can use stay-in accommodation facilities similar to those in the Uwinka chimpanzee sector. So, travelers are supposed to book in advance to ensure availability during the safaris.
What is the cost of the chimpanzee tracking permit in Nyungwe National Park?
To see chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park, visitors must obtain a chimpanzee trekking permit, a legal document that grants access to observe chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park. The permit is priced at 150 USD for foreign nonresidents, 75 USD for foreign residents, and 25 USD for East African residents. Additionally, travelers must pay separately for park entry. The entrance fee for Nyungwe Forest National Park is 100 USD for foreign nonresidents, 60 USD for foreign residents and the rest of Africa, and 60 USD for East African residents. Each morning, the park offers over 64 chimpanzee trekking permits for visitors.
What is the duration of chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe National Park?
Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park begins at 8:30 AM with a briefing on the trekking guidelines. This session covers the dos and don’ts of the experience. The trek typically lasts between 3 and 6 hours, culminating in a chance to observe chimpanzees. Once encountered, participants will have one hour to view these incredible animals.
What should you pack for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest?
As travelers plan the chimpanzee trekking in the Nyungwe Forest National Park, they are supposed to pack the following to ensure a successful tracking of the chimpanzee, and some of these include;
- Sturdy hiking shoes.
- Hiking sticks
- Water bottle to keep hydrated
- Energy snacks to keep you strong during the hike.
- Rain jacket since the weather may change at any time.
What is the best time for chimp trekking in Nyungwe Forest?
The park is open year-round for travelers to experience chimpanzee trekking. The best time to track chimpanzees is during the dry season since the tracking routes are clear and make tracking easier. Additionally, during the dry season, travelers should book in advance to ensure availability.
