Imbaraga Trail in Nyungwe Forests is one of the most riveting but relatively difficult hiking trails within the national park. This trail is one of the first trails that were developed in Nyungwe, covering 10 kilometres round trip and takes up to 6 hours to complete.
Imbaraga is literally translated as “strength” in the local Kinyarwanda dialect and the trail has often been described as difficult with its highest point being about 2,470 meters above sea level but hiking through it is worthwhile because it transverses through four magnificent waterfalls, verdant valleys, rivers and offers views of several outstanding tree species as well as Chimpanzees (if lucky) that can’t be found in other trails.
A closer of the canopy, located in the section of Imbaraga Trail in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda.
Taking on the Imbaraga Trail in Nyungwe Forest is a rewarding experience that requires participants to be physically fit and experienced in hiking. It passes through the head of Bururi Valley, different habitats that include the undercover thickets on top of the Uwinka ridge, and the verdant riverine forests that are about 500 meters below. Phenomenal attractions to look out for while hiking through the Imbaraga Trail are the jaw-dropping Bururi Valley, giant trees, and as earlier mentioned the four breathtaking waterfalls.
On reaching the Uwinka overlook, move through the trail to the Buhoro-Imbaraga junction, and then turn right to proceed to the junction with the popular Igishigishigi trail. If you continue with the Igishigishigi trail that branches left from the main trail, you will be able to enjoy the canopy walk experience but you can avoid it by continuing to the next junction before turning left. This trail is divided into four benches with the fourth one being the base of the first waterfall and at about 3 kilometers down the trail, you will cross a river below the second waterfall (several meters higher than the first waterfall) and proceeds while descending at a gentle slope and drops steeply to the right where underbrush will be dominant. Just as you continue hiking, you will see the third waterfall which is the most attractive.
Takes pictures and at the bottom of the waterfall, you will continue and cross Bururi River then ascend the side of a narrow and deep ravine to the top of Uwinka ridge where you will see the fourth beautiful waterfall. The ascent has 6 benches which you will have to use.
Other riveting hiking trails in Nyungwe Forest National Park are Ngabwe, Bigugu, Umoyove, Igishigishigi, Irebero, Muzimu, Buhoro, Rukuzi, Isumo, Kamiranzovu, Karamba and Congo Nile Divide Trails among others.
Best time to come for Hiking Imbaraga Trail in Nyungwe
Hiking Imbaraga Trail in Nyungwe is done all year round but the months of January, February, June, July, August, September and December are ideal because hiking trails tend to be less muddy and slippery. The wetter months of March, April, May, October, and November are avoided because rains disrupt the hikes and trails are muddy and slippery hence spoiling the experience but this time is good for birding.
Packing list for the Imbaraga hiking Trail
Items not to miss on your packing list are gardening gloves, rain jacket, long trousers, a hat, snacks/packed lunch, a backpack, drinking water, waterproof hiking boots, walking stick, long sleeved shirt, camera, binoculars, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
Where to stay
Accommodation facilities such as One &Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Kitabi, Gisakura Guesthouse and Nyungwe Nziza Eco lodge can are booked while hiking the Imbaraga Trail.
How to get to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is found in the south-western corner Rwanda, about 225 kilometers and 4-5 hours’ drive from Kigali City. The National Park can be reached by both air and road transport. With air transport, flights are operated by Rwandair from Kigali International Airport to Kamembe Airport.