Gishwati Makura National Park
Gishwati Makura National Park : is generally Rwanda’s fourth national park as well as the closet to Kigali city. This park is basically made up of two separate forests; the larger Gishwati and small Mukura. Furthermore, the park is made up of 60 species of tree, including indigenous hardwoods and bamboo. In addition, it is home to over 20 chimpanzees and other primates like; the golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s, blue Monkeys, etc. Besides, it hosts different bird species whereby 232 species have been recorded at Gishwati while 163 recorded at Mukura.
What to do while at Gishwati National Park
Primate watching
Gishwati generally hosts a number of primates such as, baboons, chimpanzee, golden monkeys, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, etc. Besides, cats, forest birds and duikers can also be spotted in the park. Here, tourists also able to track golden monkeys and chimpanzees due to the existence of habituated groups. During the tracking you will learn more about the chimps and discover their lifestyle as well as their day to day activities.
Bird watching
There over 83 bird species recorded in this park though some of them are found in the Albertine Rift. The species include; Weaver birds, Wood hoopoes, strange weavers, Martial eagle, Mountain yellow warblers. Purple-breasted sunbird, Ruwenzori batis, grey crowned crane, Ruwenzori turaco, etc. You will also be accompanied by the guide to give you more information about the different bird species.
Nature walks & Hiking
During the hike, you will be able to spot different primates, bird species, insects, tree species, primates, butterflies, etc. The park has also got different trails that can be used explore the indoor parts of the park. Apart from viewing the primates, hiking will help discover the hidden secret situated in the middle of the park known as the Kazeneza waterfall. While here, tourists are allowed to have memorable pictures around the area.
Cultural experience
Many cultures live around Gishwati National Park but with different norms. These cultures are welcoming and you can engage in different cultural practices. Some of these include; music, dance and drama, storytelling, visit the craft makers, etc. You can also discover how the local food is traditionally made as well as the local beers. Tourists can also take time and visit the traditional healers who mix medicines from the tree species found in this park.
How to access Gishwati National Park
Gishwati is located 84 kilometres from the city Kigali which takes approximately 3-4hours to reach the park. The park can also easily be accessed either by use of air transport (which takes 45minutes to reach the park) or by road transport. However, from Volcanoes national park it’s easy to reach since its only 27km from Gishwati National Park. The park can also be accessed from Uganda via Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park.
Where to stay in Gishwati National Park
- Luxury lodge: Gishwati Lodge
Our Special Safaris
