Discover the thrilling Canopy walk nestled high through the deep ravines and treetops of the oldest Afro-montane rainforest in Africa- Nyungwe Forest National Park. This walk is one of the exciting reasons why travelers love the “land of a thousand hills”. Perfect for visitors of all ages and physical fitness, East Africa’s first suspension bridge offers the exceptional and unforgettable opportunity to observe the biodiverse and extraordinary life in the Afro-montane rainforest canopy at close range.
Get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stroll along the suspension bridge for 160 meters at approximately 70 meters above the rainforest floor. The bridge hangs above a deep ravine in the lush rainforest of Nyungwe hence offering nature and adventure lovers the opportunity to see the beauty of the biodiversity hot spot.
The Canopy walk is part of the Igishigishigi Trail, one of the 15 remarkable hiking trails in Nyungwe Forest National Park, and is so far one of traveler’s favorites. Get the chance to spot some of the 140 orchids and tree species surrounded by a plethora of birds as well as primates (especially the blue monkeys, L’Hoests monkeys, the Black and white Colobus monkeys, Dent’s Mona Monkeys and many others) that inhabit the treetops/canopies. Besides these stunning attractions, be prepared to enjoy fresh air and bird eye-view of the forest.
The Nyungwe Canopy walk was established in 2010 by USAID under the Green Heart initiative and is divided into three different parts that are; the 90-meter long walk, the 45-meter-long walk and the 25-meter long walk. Besides the primates (Black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and L’Hoests monkeys among others), giant hardwood tree species are spotted in the upper ends of this Afro-montane rainforest as well as purple orchids in the lower part of the jungle.
How the Nyungwe Canopy walk is done
Just like most Nyungwe National Park activities, the canopy walk begins with briefing at the Visitor Center (in this case Uwinka Visitor Center) and done in the morning and afternoon. The morning session usually starts at 8:00 or 10:00am while the afternoon session begins at 1:00 pm and 3:00pm.
Briefing is done by the Rwanda Development Board Rangers who provide information on the Protected Area- its history, size, and attractions, the guidelines to be followed during the adventure and after the adventure starts with so much enthusiasm and vigor. This once in a lifetime experience is almost 2 hours away from the Uwinka Visitor Center and if you are afraid of heights, then this activity might not be as exciting as proclaimed.
How much does the Canopy walk cost?
The Canopy walk itself costs only $40 per person, but travelers are also required to pay Park entry fees that cost $100 per person for a one-day visit, $150 per person for a two-day visit for the foreign non-resident travelers. Foreign residents are charged Park entry fees of $60 per person for a 1-day tour, and $90 for a 2-day visit.
What to carry/wear for the exhilarating Nyungwe Canopy walk
The Nyungwe Canopy walk involves exploring the rainforest which require a certain “acceptable” dressing code that includes comfortable and breathable safari pants as well as a long sleeved shirt. Also pack a safari hat, lightweight rain jacket, a camera with extra batteries, lenses and memory cards, pair of binoculars, sunscreen and sunglasses, a good camera with zoom effects, enough drinking water, a waterproof backpack, insect repellant, gardening gloves, snacks and others.
When to undertake the Nyungwe Canopy walk
The Nyungwe Canopy walk is done throughout the year but the dry season- January, February, June, July, August, September and December is less challenging because of reduced rainfall levels. The heavy downpours during wet months- March, April, May, October and November make the hiking trail muddy and slippery thus more challenging.