Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Rwanda’s most treasured natural wonders, is home to Africa’s only canopy walkway—an exhilarating suspension bridge that offers breathtaking views of the ancient rainforest from above. The Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest is a must-do experience for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and photographers looking to explore the park’s rich biodiversity from a unique perspective. Suspended high above the forest floor, this walkway provides a thrilling yet safe way to immerse in the stunning landscapes and spot a variety of wildlife, including primates, birds, and exotic plant species.
About Nyungwe Forest National Park
Located in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, covering over 1,019 square kilometers. The park is famous for its dense biodiversity, housing more than 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. It also boasts over 300 bird species, many of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift region. The forest’s rich ecosystem includes towering mahogany trees, lush ferns, and a network of rivers that feed into the Nile and Congo basins.
The Canopy Walk Experience
The Canopy Walkway is a 160-meter-long suspension bridge hanging 70 meters (230 feet) above the forest floor. It is divided into three sections, with the longest stretch measuring 90 meters. The walkway is designed to give visitors a bird’s-eye view of the forest, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness Nyungwe’s beauty from above.
Starting the Journey
The Canopy Walk begins at the Uwinka Visitor Center, the main entrance to Nyungwe Forest National Park. After a briefing by park guides, visitors embark on a 2.1-kilometer (1.3-mile) hike through the dense forest. The trail is scenic but can be moderately challenging, with some steep sections and slippery paths, especially during the rainy season. However, the effort is rewarded with stunning sights of towering trees, colorful butterflies, and the sounds of birds and primates echoing through the forest.
Walking on the Canopy Walkway
Upon reaching the suspension bridge, visitors step onto the walkway, which sways gently with movement. Walking along the bridge is a thrilling experience, offering panoramic views of the treetops, deep valleys, and rolling hills of Nyungwe. The feeling of being high above the forest, with misty clouds drifting below, adds to the magical atmosphere.
For those with a fear of heights, the bridge may seem intimidating at first, but safety measures are in place, and guides provide reassurance throughout the walk. Many visitors find that once they adjust to the height, they can fully enjoy the experience and take in the spectacular views.
Wildlife and Scenic Views from the Canopy Walk
The canopy walkway provides a rare chance to see wildlife at eye level, particularly arboreal (tree-dwelling) primates and birds that are difficult to spot from the forest floor. Some of the species commonly seen include:
- Ruwenzori colobus monkeys – Easily identifiable by their long white tails.
- L’Hoest’s monkeys – Shy primates often seen leaping between branches.
- Chimpanzees (occasionally seen) – Though rare from the walkway, their vocalizations can often be heard.
- Turacos and sunbirds – Brightly colored birds fluttering through the treetops.
Visitors also get a unique perspective of Nyungwe’s diverse plant life, including ancient mahogany and giant ferns. The sheer scale of the forest, stretching into the horizon, is a breathtaking sight that leaves a lasting impression.
Best Time to Visit the Canopy Walk
The Canopy Walk is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons (June to September and December to February). During these months, the trails are drier and easier to navigate, and the skies are clearer, allowing for better views and photography.
The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush greenery and increased bird activity but can make the trails muddy and slippery. However, the misty atmosphere during these months adds a mystical feel to the forest, creating a unique and serene experience.
Canopy Walk Tour Costs and Requirements
To experience the Nyungwe Canopy Walk, visitors must purchase a permit from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) or through an authorized tour operator.
- Canopy Walk Permit Fee: $60 per person
- Guide Fee: Included in the permit price
- Minimum Age: 6 years old (children must be accompanied by an adult)
- Tour Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours (including the hike and time on the bridge)
Permits can be booked in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Tourists are also encouraged to combine the Canopy Walk with other activities in Nyungwe, such as chimpanzee tracking, colobus monkey tracking, and guided nature hikes.
What to Bring for the Canopy Walk
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, visitors should come prepared with:
- Hiking Boots – Essential for navigating the sometimes muddy and uneven trails.
- Rain Jacket – Nyungwe experiences frequent showers, even during the dry season.
- Comfortable Clothing – Long sleeves and pants help protect against insect bites.
- Camera or Binoculars – To capture the stunning views and spot wildlife.
- Drinking Water and Snacks – The hike to the canopy can be physically demanding.
Why Experience the Canopy Walk in Nyungwe?
1. A Unique Adventure in Africa
The Nyungwe Canopy Walkway is the only one of its kind in East Africa, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors to Rwanda.
2. Unmatched Views of the Forest
Unlike ground-level hikes, the canopy walkway offers a completely different perspective of the rainforest, allowing visitors to appreciate its vastness and beauty.
3. A Thrill for Adventure Seekers
Walking across a swaying bridge high above the trees provides an adrenaline rush and a sense of accomplishment, especially for those overcoming a fear of heights.
4. Excellent for Photography and Birdwatching
With unobstructed views of the treetops, the canopy walk is a paradise for photographers and birdwatchers looking to capture stunning shots of Nyungwe’s biodiversity.
5. A Great Addition to a Rwanda Itinerary
For travelers visiting Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking or Akagera National Park for wildlife safaris, the Canopy Walk in Nyungwe offers a different kind of adventure, showcasing Rwanda’s incredible variety of landscapes.
The Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Rwanda’s most unique and thrilling outdoor experiences. Suspended high above the forest, this walkway offers breathtaking views, incredible wildlife sightings, and an unforgettable sense of adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or a photographer looking for the perfect shot, the Canopy Walk is a must-do activity that highlights the beauty and richness of Rwanda’s rainforests.