Top Tourist Activities in Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Top Tourist Activities in Gishwati-Mukura National Park. Tucked away in the hills of western Rwanda lies Gishwati-Mukura National Park, one of the country’s lesser-known but incredibly rewarding destinations for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Unlike its more famous cousin, Volcanoes National Park, Gishwati-Mukura offers a quieter, more intimate experience with nature, biodiversity, and local culture.
Created in 2015 by merging two separate forests Gishwati and Mukura this park is a story of both environmental loss and recovery. Decades of deforestation shrank the once-vast forest belt, but conservation efforts are now bringing the land back to life. And with that rebirth comes a fresh opportunity for tourists looking to explore Rwanda’s wild side off the beaten track.
Here are the Top Tourists activities in Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Chimpanzee Tracking.
One of the most captivating experiences you can have in Gishwati-Mukura National Park is chimpanzee tracking. Unlike in more popular parks where the primates are accustomed to daily human presence, the chimpanzees here are still in the process of habituation. That means encounters are less predictable but also far more authentic. These chimpanzees live deep within the forest, moving through the trees with impressive speed and agility. A typical tracking experience starts early in the morning, when primates are most active. With a trained ranger leading the way, you’ll venture into dense forest, following vocalizations, broken branches, fresh dung, and nest sites to locate a troop.
Once the chimps are found the moment is electric. You may see them swinging from the canopy, grooming each other, cracking open nuts, or calling across the treetops with loud, rhythmic hoots. Sometimes they pause long enough to observe you, curious but cautious. Other times, they move quickly, prompting a short chase through the undergrowth. Expect the trek to last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how far the chimpanzees have traveled.
Guided Nature Walks.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park isn’t just about its charismatic chimpanzees, it’s also a living library of plant life, geology, and quiet forest energy. The park’s guided nature walks are one of the best ways to experience this environment up close, at a human pace, and with purpose. These aren’t just strolls through the trees, they’re immersive lessons in ecology, healing, and observation.
You’ll likely pass tree ferns, a hallmark of old-growth forests, and spot wild mushrooms growing on rotting logs. Depending on the season, bright orchids may be in bloom, clinging to tree trunks or poking out of the underbrush. Many of these plants have been used for centuries by local communities for treating ailments like fevers, digestive problems, or even snake bites. The walks are customizable depending on your fitness level and time. Short loops around the visitor center and buffer zones are perfect for families with children or casual walkers. While longer treks deeper into the forest appeal to serious hikers and nature lovers. You’ll likely encounter small mammals like squirrels, mongoose, or duikers across the trail including a steady parade of insects, butterflies, and birds.
Birdwatching.
With over 230 bird species including 20 Albertine Rift endemics, Gishwati-Mukura National Park stands out as a world-class birding destination. Even if it remains under the radar for most travelers. The park’s mix of montane forest, regenerating woodland, and open clearings creates ideal habitats for a wide variety of species. From vibrant nectar feeders to striking forest dwellers. Among the stars of the sky are the brilliantly colored Ruwenzori Turaco, Mountain Yellow Warbler, and Elegant Grey Crowned Crane, Rwanda’s national bird, known for its golden feather crown and courtship dances near open wetlands. Sunbird enthusiasts can spot both the Regal Sunbird and the rarer Purple-breasted Sunbird, an Albertine Rift endemic.
Beyond these highlights, Gishwati’s forest canopy and understory host woodpeckers, flycatchers, bee-eaters, cuckoos, and various raptors. These offer a rich mix for both seasoned twitchers and curious newcomers. Birdwatching is best in the early morning or late afternoon when activity peaks. Guided walks with knowledgeable local rangers enhance the experience with expert spotting and insights. Whether you’re scanning the trees with binoculars or casually catching flashes of feathers on a forest trail, birding in Gishwati-Mukura offers a quiet, awe-filled window into Rwanda’s untamed biodiversity.
Cultural Tours.
The communities surrounding Gishwati-Mukura National Park play a vital role in its conservation. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with them through meaningful, hands-on cultural experiences. Local cooperatives and Indigenous groups offer immersive activities that provide insight into traditional Rwandan life while directly supporting community livelihoods. Guests can participate in traditional dance performances, try their hand at basket weaving or pottery in craft workshops. Learn how to brew banana beer using age-old methods, or sit with village elders for storytelling sessions that pass down oral history and wisdom. These aren’t staged shows, they’re intimate, authentic interactions where visitors learn by doing, fostering genuine cultural exchange and mutual respect.
Waterfall Hikes.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park offers adventurous visitors the chance to explore hidden waterfalls tucked deep within its forested hills. These waterfalls are reachable only by hiking through the untamed terrain. These treks, typically moderate in difficulty, lead you through dense bamboo stands, across moss-covered logs, and alongside crystal-clear streams, immersing you fully in the forest’s raw beauty. One of the falls is Kazenenza Waterfall, a gentle cascade spilling into a tranquil pool ideal for rest and reflection. The other fall is Murambi Waterfall, a taller, more powerful drop that’s especially striking during the rainy season. While the trails can be muddy and slippery, waterproof footwear is a must. Photogenic scene that feels untouched and secluded, making the journey more than worth it.
What is the best time to visit Gishwati-Mukura National Park?
The best time to visit Gishwati-Mukura National Park is during the dry seasons. These occur from June to September and December to February. These months offer better trail conditions when the forest trails are dry and less slippery. There’s improved wildlife sightings as animals like chimpanzees and birds are easier to track and spot when the vegetation is less dense and visibility is better. The dry seasons have clearer skies and soft morning light make it great to capture landscape and wildlife shots.
What about the rainy seasons?
The long rainy season runs from March to May, and the short rains fall in October and November. While the forest is especially lush and green during these times. The heavy rainfall can make hiking difficult, increase the chances of trail closures, and reduce visibility for wildlife viewing. So, if you want best experience especially for chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching, nature walks, and waterfall hikes, aim for the dry months.</p&amp;gt;</p&amp;gt;