Gishwati Forest National Park is Rwanda’s newest national park, established in 2015 to preserve and restore one of the country’s most ecologically significant forest corridors. Located in the western region of Rwanda along the biodiverse Albertine Rift, the park encompasses two separate forests—Gishwati and Mukura—covering a total area of about 34 square kilometers. It serves as a vital habitat for numerous species of wildlife and plant life, many of which are endemic to the region. The park is particularly known for its rich primate population. Visitors may encounter chimpanzees, golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the more than 80 recorded bird species, including the regal sunbird, Rwenzori turaco, and grey crowned crane. The forest itself is a mix of indigenous hardwoods, bamboo, and over 60 tree species, creating a lush, green landscape ideal for exploration.

Visitors to Gishwati-Mukura National Park can engage in a variety of immersive experiences. Primate tracking is a highlight, offering guided treks through the forest to observe chimpanzees and other primates in their natural habitat. Nature walks and birdwatching are also popular, as the dense forest and diverse ecosystems are home to countless avian and plant species. The park also offers rich cultural experiences through community-based tourism, such as farm stays, traditional dance performances, handicraft workshops, beekeeping demonstrations, and tea plantation tours each offering a unique glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the surrounding communities.

Conservation is at the heart of the park’s mission. The creation of Gishwati-Mukura was part of Rwanda’s broader effort to promote sustainable tourism while protecting critical habitats. Restoration initiatives are ongoing to rehabilitate degraded land and strengthen forest connectivity, supporting both biodiversity and local livelihoods. Easily accessible by road, the park is roughly a 2–3 hour drive from Kigali and is conveniently located between two of Rwanda’s other major parks Volcanoes and Nyungwe. Gishwati-Mukura National Park is an emerging gem for travelers seeking a combination of wildlife adventure, nature immersion, and authentic cultural encounters in Rwanda’s scenic western highlands.