Nyungwe Village is a captivating eco-friendly community nestled in the scenic Kitabi sector of the Nyamagabe district in Rwanda’s Southern Province. Located just one kilometer from the eastern entrance of the stunning Nyungwe National Park, this ecovillage embodies sustainable living and a deep connection to nature.
At Nyungwe Village, visitors can immerse themselves in a range of eco-oriented activities, including eco-lodging, ecotourism, and ecosystem restoration. The village prioritizes climate-smart agriculture, ensuring that farming practices are environmentally sustainable while enhancing local food security. Furthermore, ample efforts are put into capacity building, biodiversity conservation, and community development, making it a hub for both education and environmental stewardship.
Nyungwe Village emerged from BIOCOOP Rwanda, a notable social enterprise dedicated to rural development. This initiative has significantly improved livelihoods by creating numerous job opportunities for local communities surrounding Nyungwe National Park.
Staying at Nyugwe Village not only provides guests with an unforgettable experience of nature walks amid breathtaking landscapes, but also offers critical support to the local populace, helping to foster sustainable development in the region.
Some Activities to do while Staying at Nyungwe Village
Chimpanzee Tracking
Chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda takes place in Nyungwe Forest National Park, where visitors can observe habituated chimps in their natural habitat. Groups of up to eight people embark on morning treks, guided by park rangers. The experience allows tourists to see chimps interact, feed, and play, highlighting their close genetic relationship to humans, with 98.7% shared DNA. Visitors are allowed to spend one hour with the chimps.
Birding
Nyungwe National Park is home to 322 bird species, including the rare Red-collared Babbler, found only in Rwanda. Other notable species include Rwenzori Turaco and Grauer’s Warbler.
Canopy Walk
The canopy walk is a highlight of Nyungwe, offering a thrilling view 50 meters above the forest floor. The walk includes a scenic trail from Uwinka Reception Centre. Nyungwe Forest spans 1,015 square kilometers, making it the largest remaining area of Tropical Afro Montane rainforest in East Africa.