Nyungwe Forest, Montane rainforest and national park in southwestern Rwanda
Nyungwe Forest is a large montane rainforest in southwestern Rwanda with highly varied terrain and habitats. Rainforest sections mix with bamboo thickets, grasslands, and wetlands, while the higher elevations host mountain bogs and open vegetation.
Belgium created the forest reserve in 1933 to protect its natural resources. In 2004, Rwanda designated it as a national park to ensure ongoing conservation.
The forest is home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and other primates that draw visitors from around the world to observe them in their natural setting. Local guides share knowledge about how forest plants are traditionally used and how the animals behave in their everyday lives.
Visitor centers at several locations provide access to trails that wind through different forest sections. Bring waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be wet and muddy, especially during rainy seasons.
The forest feeds water into both the Nile and Congo river systems, making it a source for two major African river basins. More than three-quarters of Rwanda's drinking water originates from this watershed.
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