Nyungwe Canopy Walk and Zipline Day Trip from Kigali
Spend a long, immersive day in Nyungwe National Park—walking rainforest trails, crossing East Africa’s only canopy walkway suspended 60 m above the forest, and sampling short zipline elements. This guided day trip combines close wildlife viewing with practical safety and transport for a full-day adventure from Kigali.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early
Road transfer from Kigali takes several hours—depart at first light to maximize wildlife viewing and avoid late afternoon weather.
Bring layers
Temperatures drop at elevation and wind picks up on the walkway; a light insulating layer and wind shell are useful.
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails are uneven and can be slippery; closed-toe hiking shoes with grip improve safety and comfort.
Protect against insects
Use DEET or picaridin repellent and consider permethrin-treated clothing—mosquitoes and biting flies are common near streams.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Gisakura Tea Estate viewpoints just outside the park for panoramic ridge views
- •Short side trails that lead to small waterfalls and quiet stream-side clearings away from main routes
Wildlife
- •Ruwenzori colobus (black-and-white colobus)
- •Forest birds such as sunbirds and turacos
Conservation Note
Park entrance fees and guided tours fund anti-poaching patrols and habitat protection; visitors are asked to stay on trails and minimize noise to reduce disturbance.
Nyungwe is a long-protected montane rainforest shaped by volcanic uplands and recognized as a national park to protect rare primates and watershed forests.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides grip and ankle support on rooty, sometimes slippery rainforest trails.
Waterproof jacketEssential
Quick showers are common; a lightweight shell keeps you dry on the canopy walkway.
Reusable water bottle (1–2L)Essential
Long day with transfers—stay hydrated during hikes and between stops.
Binoculars
Helps spot colobus monkeys and birds high in the canopy from the walkway.
Common Questions
How long is the day trip from Kigali?
Expect a full-day excursion of roughly 10–15 hours including round-trip road transfer, park time, and meals—plan for an early departure.
Is the canopy walkway safe for people afraid of heights?
The walkway is structurally secure and guides provide orientation, but visitors with severe vertigo or fear of heights may find the exposure uncomfortable.
Are zipline elements suitable for children?
Operators set age and weight limits; check with the provider—many require a minimum age and parental consent for younger participants.
Will I see chimpanzees on this trip?
The tour focuses on canopy and nature walks with good chances to see primates like Ruwenzori colobus and various monkeys; chimpanzee sightings are possible but not guaranteed without a dedicated tracking permit.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–15 hours
Location
Gisakura, Southern Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness—able to walk 3–6 miles on uneven terrain and tolerate heights for short periods.
Ready to Explore Gisakura?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now