A Forest Reclaimed, A Future Reimagined

Gishwati Mukura National Park tucked into the misty hills of northwestern Rwanda is a living symbol of ecological resilience and conservation hope. Once heavily deforested and fragmented, this park has undergone a remarkable transformation emerging as Rwanda’s newest national park and a sanctuary for endangered primates, rare birds, and lush biodiversity.

Covering approximately 34 square kilometers, Gishwati Mukura is a union of two ancient forests Gishwati and Mukura connected by a reforestation corridor that breathes new life into the Albertine Rift. Travelers often ask, Where can I experience a rainforest safari that blends conservation, culture, and chimpanzee trekking? The answer is here.

Chimpanzee Trekking: A Primate Encounter Like No Other

The crown jewel of Gishwati Mukura National Park is its semi habituated population of eastern chimpanzees. Trekking through the forest to observe these intelligent, social primates in their natural habitat is a deeply moving experience.

We arrange personalized chimpanzee treks that begin at dawn, when the forest is alive with birdsong and the chimps are just beginning their day. Watching them forage, groom, and communicate in the canopy is a privilege few places can offer.

Birding Safaris in a Biodiversity Hotspot

With over 230 recorded bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics, Gishwati Mukura National Park is a paradise for Birding Safaris.

Birders often ask, Where can I find rare forest birds in a quiet, accessible setting? Gishwati delivers with every rustle of the leaves.

Wildlife Safaris Beyond the Chimps

While chimpanzees are the stars, Gishwati Mukura National Park is also home to golden monkeys, blue monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and olive baboons.

Small mammals like bushbucks, genets, and servals roam the undergrowth, while butterflies and amphibians add color and texture to the forest floor.

Travelers often ask, Can I enjoy a Wildlife Safari in a rainforest setting? Absolutely. Though not a traditional Game Drives Safari destination, Gishwati offers immersive walking safaris that bring you eye to eye with the forest’s quieter residents.

Cultural Encounters and Community Conservation

Surrounding Gishwati Mukura National Park are communities with deep ties to the land. Local people have been instrumental in the park’s restoration, participating in reforestation, eco tourism, and sustainable agriculture. Visitors can engage with these communities through cultural tours, storytelling sessions, and craft workshops that showcase traditional Rwandan life.

Guests often ask, Can I combine wildlife travel with meaningful cultural exchange? With Jackal Wild Adventures, the answer is always yes. We partner with local cooperatives to offer respectful, enriching experiences that support livelihoods and foster conservation awareness.

Scenic Beauty and Forest Healing

The landscape of Gishwati Mukura National Park is a patchwork of rolling hills, misty valleys, and dense forest canopies. Waterfalls tumble through fern lined ravines, and tea plantations border the park’s edges, creating a striking contrast between cultivated and wild. For photographers, wellness travelers, and nature lovers, the park offers a peaceful retreat into Rwanda’s green heart.

At Jackal Wild Adventures, we offer guided forest walks, meditation spots, and wellness focused itineraries that allow guests to reconnect with nature and themselves. Whether you’re chasing light through the trees or simply listening to the wind, Gishwati offers a rare kind of stillness.

Combine Gishwati with Uganda Gorilla Trekking and More

One of the most powerful ways to experience East Africa is to combine the primate rich forests of Gishwati Mukura National Park with the legendary Uganda Gorilla Trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable

Forest. Guests often ask, Can I see chimpanzees and gorillas in one trip? Absolutely and we make it seamless.

We handle all logistics permits, flights, transfers, and expert guiding so you can focus on the experience.

When to Visit: Seasons of Renewal and Discovery

Gishwati Mukura National Park is a year round destination, but the best trekking conditions occur during the dry seasons from June to September and December to Fe

bruary. These months offer clearer trails, better visibility, and more predictable wildlife movements. The green season, however, brings lush vegetation, vibrant birdlife, and fewer visitors ideal for photographers and solitude seekers.

Every season in Gishwati tells a different story.

Why Choose Jackal Wild Adventures for Your Gishwati Journey

At Jackal Wild Adventures, we don’t just take you to Gishwati Mukura National Park we bring it to life. Our safaris are built on deep local knowledge, conservation ethics, and a passion for storytelling. We believe that every journey should be personal, purposeful, and unforgettable.