Gishwati-Mukura National Park, a newly created National Park in Rwanda lies in the northern province. This was created after two rainforests were merged and these included Gishwati Forest and Mukura. Gishwati Forest is 85kms off from Kigali and from Rubavu approximately 40kms then from Musanze, about 55kms. Mukura Forest is the undeveloped side of Gishwati-Mukura National Park, and it is found 35kms East of Karongi.
Gishwati Mukura occupies up to only 34sq.kms of land area. It shelters diversity of primate species and these include over 20 chimpanzees, blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, l’hoest monkeys and at times, golden monkeys can be spotted.
Over 232 avifaunal species are also inhabited within the rain forest of Gishwati-Mukura Park. Majority of the birds in this park are Albertine rift endemic bird species and forest species. They include the red-throated alethe, martial eagle, old-world warblers, purple breasted sunbird, woodhoopoe, grey crowned crane, Rwenzori batis, dusky crimson wing, regal sunbird, to mention but a few.
Expected tourist activities to do in Gishwati Mukura
- Primate tracking or chimpanzee tracking
- Biking or cycling along the Congo Nile trail
- Hiking & nature walks
- Bird watching
- Cultural experience
Primates tracking in Gishwati-Mukura
Gishwati-Mukura is the newest national park in Rwanda. It was formed by joining the two forests of Gishwati and Mukura. The park is found close to Lake Kivu and is an excellent example of Rwanda’s conservation efforts. During and after the genocide, refugees encroached on forested land leading to severe deforestation and land degradation. Tourists can visit the park for nature walks, bird-watching and tracking primates like Chimpanzees or L’Hoest’s monkeys.
When to visit Gishwati Mukura National Park
Gishwati Mukura National Park enjoys favorable weather & climatic conditions throughout the year. It experiences largely the tropical-equatorial kind of climate with temperatures often kept moderate all year-round. Average temperature rise is about 77 degrees Fahrenheit and this is during day and at night, it falls to 64 degrees F.
The Kivu belt or region remains as one of the wettest areas in Rwanda. Rains can be experienced at any time of the year and preferably, the dry season is the best to go Rwanda safaris in Gishwati-Mukura National Park. There is long dry season which runs from June to September and the short dry spell that is experienced from December to February.
Lodging options at Gishwati Mukura National Park
- Gishwati Lodge, a luxury accommodation option and it is accessible about half an hour from Volcanoes National Park (VNP). Considering its close proximity to Volcanoes and Rubavu, guests can also spend a night in any of the lodges around the two areas ten connect to Gishwati Mukura for a tour.
Planning your safari to Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Pack appropriately for your next holiday in Gishwati-Mukura and essentials to include on your packing list range from waterproof walking shoes/boots, long sleeved shirt, daypack, cameras, pair of binoculars, sunglasses, sunscreen, first aid kit, insect repellents, bottled water, sweater, rain jacket, etc. For an unforgettable holiday, plan your trip with a trusted and reliable tour operator on ground.