Located in the western part of Rwanda, Gishwati Mukura National Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and biodiversity. Officially gazetted as Rwanda’s fourth national park in 2015, this park is made up of two separate forests: the larger Gishwati and the smaller Mukura, covering a total area of 34 square kilometers.
Gishwati Mukura National Park is a global biodiversity hotspot, home to a variety of endemic and endangered species. The park boasts over 60 species of trees, including indigenous hardwoods and bamboo. It is also home to a group of 20 chimpanzees, golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and blue monkeys. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted to know that the park hosts 232 bird species in Gishwati and 163 in Mukura, including Albertine Rift endemic species and forest specialists.
The park’s diverse landscapes include montane rainforests, bamboo forests, and rolling hills. Visitors can explore these stunning environments through a variety of activities. Guided nature hikes, chimp and monkey tracking, bird watching, and visits to the park’s waterfalls are just a few of the adventures that await. The park’s scenic beauty and rich biodiversity make it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Gishwati Mukura National Park offers a range of community-based activities that provide a glimpse into the local culture. Visitors can enjoy a farm stay, witness live cultural dances, make handicrafts, and participate in beekeeping. A tour of the nearby tea plantations and learning from traditional healers who use natural plants to support modern medicine are also popular activities.
The park’s conservation efforts are focused on restoring the forest and improving the livelihoods of the surrounding communities. The formalization of its national park status aims to increase the number of trees, improve soil fertility, stabilize slopes, and regulate stream flow. These efforts contribute to the park’s regeneration and the potential to raise living standards in the long term.
Gishwati Mukura National Park is easily accessible and offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous hike, a chance to observe primates in their natural habitat, or an opportunity to immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage, Gishwati Mukura promises an unforgettable experience.