Between June to September (dry season)
June to September
Chimpanzee, Golden Monkey, L’Hoest’s Monkey, Blue Monkey, Bushbuck
We’ll take you deep into the quiet beauty of Gishwati–Mukura National Park, Rwanda’s newest national park and one of its most exclusive. Located along the western ridge of the country, this compact yet vital protected area connects Gishwati Forest in the north with Mukura Forest to the south, preserving a rare corridor of montane rainforest in the Albertine Rift.
Officially established in 2015, Gishwati–Mukura National Park and Biosphere Reserve is a conservation success story, restoring fragmented forests and protecting endangered species like chimpanzees and golden monkeys. Whether you’re visiting for primate trekking, forest walks, or to stay at the luxurious Gishwati Lodge, our safaris offer an off-the-beaten-path experience unlike anywhere else in Rwanda.
The weather in Gishwati–Mukura National Park is cool and temperate due to its elevation, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F – 77°F). Rain is frequent from March to May and October to December, so waterproof clothing is recommended. The dry months from June to September are ideal for gorilla trekking and wildlife encounters.
General weather summary in July
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General weather summary in August
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General weather summary in September
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General weather summary in October
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General weather summary in November
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General weather summary in December
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General weather summary in January
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General weather summary in February
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General weather summary in March
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General weather summary in April
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General weather summary in May
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General weather summary in June
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Our safaris invite you to explore the lush green heart of Rwanda’s smallest and least-visited park. Gishwati Forest is a haven for nature lovers, where you can track primates through moss-draped trees, marvel at over 230 bird species, and witness forest restoration in action.
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“Wildlife can't be described in words or seen in pictures, you just have to feel it!”
Peter Macharia
Managing Director
Highlights include guided nature walks, visits to community conservation projects, and overnight stays at the intimate Gishwati Lodge, a beautifully designed eco-retreat nestled in the forest canopy. We’ll help you experience this rewilded treasure through low-impact safaris that celebrate nature, community, and connection.
Ready to explore a truly hidden gem in Rwanda’s conservation landscape? Let us plan your tailor-made forest safari, with expert guides, exclusive stays at Gishwati Lodge, and insider knowledge that brings this magical place to life.
Chimpanzee Tracking
Bird Watching
Walking Safaris
Mountain Biking
Cultural Interactions
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Gishwati–Mukura National Park is Rwanda’s fourth national park, created to connect Gishwati Forest and Mukura Forest. It protects a vital biodiversity corridor and supports sustainable tourism and conservation.
The location of Gishwati–Mukura National Park is in western Rwanda, between Lake Kivu and Nyungwe Forest. It’s approximately a 3 – 4 hour drive from Kigali and just north of Karongi (Kibuye).
The best time to visit Gishwati–Mukura National Park is during the dry season, from June to September. Trails are more accessible, primate tracking is easier, and wildlife viewing is more rewarding. That said, this forest is a year-round destination. The mist and moisture of the wet season bring out its vivid greens, birdlife flourishes, and the atmosphere feels ancient and alive. For birders and photographers, these months offer stunning contrasts and quieter trails.
Guided tours are the best way to experience the park. We’ll arrange all permits, transfers, and accommodation, making your journey into Gishwati smooth and enriching.
You can see primates like chimpanzees, golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s and blue monkeys, along with bushbuck and a wide array of birds. Gishwati Forest photos showcase its misty trails, giant ferns, and birdlife like the regal sunbird and mountain oriole.
Gishwati Lodge is the primary lodge in the park, offering eco-luxury stays with guided forest walks, cultural experiences, and views over the treetops. It’s designed for those seeking exclusivity, sustainability, and quiet escapes in nature.
The history of Gishwati–Mukura National Park is rooted in forest recovery. Years of deforestation for farming and grazing had devastated the landscape. Conservation efforts began in the early 2000s, and the park was officially established in 2015, later designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
While Nyungwe is larger and more established, Gishwati offers a quieter alternative with similar biodiversity. Both parks are part of the Albertine Rift and work in tandem to protect primates and native flora.
Yes, a Gishwati Forest map can be accessed at the park’s visitor centre or through guided tour operators. It outlines the key trekking routes, community projects, and conservation zones.
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