Top 7 Tourist Activities to do in Gishwati Mukura National park
Top 7 Tourist Activities to do in Gishwati Mukura National park : Gishwati National Park is one of Rwanda’s four national Parks and the newest reservoir in the country. It is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda and covers an area of 1,600 sq km. The park was established in 2004 and was named in honour of Gishwati-Mukura, an early leader of the Rwandan independence movement. The main objective of the park is to protect the region’s unique biological diversity as well as promote sustainable development and ecotourism in the region.
- Climbing the Gishwati Mukura waterfall.
The Gishwati Mukura waterfall is one of the most popular tourist attractions at Gishwati National Park, attracting thousands of visitors each year and being known all over the world for its exceptional beauty. The climb to the falls is extremely challenging, but the view from the top is well worth the extra effort! For those who are less adventurous, you can take a cable car up to the waterfall instead or just admire it from down below, which is just as beautiful!
- Trekking to the top of the Gishwati Mukura peak.
The trek to the summit of the Gishwati Mukura mountain is an unforgettable experience that offers incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes, mountains and valleys such as Musanze and the Ruhondo River valley. It is considered to be one of the best day hikes in Rwanda and a definite must-see for anyone who visits on a Rwanda tour!
- Golden monkey trekking
The Golden Monkey trekking experience is another popular attraction in Gishwati National Park that will delight any nature lover. The Golden Monkeys are an endangered species that can only be found in Central Africa and are one of the most beautiful primates in Africa. You will be accompanied by a guide who will give you detailed explanations about the monkeys, their habitat and the efforts being made to protect them. This is one of the best tours in Kigali and should not be missed!
- Visit the Iby’iwachu Cultural Village
Located just a short drive from the famous Volcanoes National Park, the Gishwati Nature Reserve is a great place to visit during your stay in Rwanda. The Iby’wachu Cultural Village is located on the edge of the park and is the perfect place to learn more about the local wildlife as well as the history and culture of the area. Some of the activities available in the village include traditional dance and drumming performances as well as daily village tours and cultural classes.
- Rafting on the Mubuku River
The river rafting trip begins at the base of Mt Karisimbi, where the river is calm and ideal for beginners. As you progress downstream you will be surrounded by lush vegetation and beautiful waterfalls as you raft through breathtaking scenery. The adventure ends at the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you will have the opportunity to explore the area and enjoy a relaxing lunch before returning to Kigali for your onward journey.
- The Gishwati Nature Reserve Walk
It is situated in the heart of Rwanda’s volcanic landscape, nestled between the Virunga Volcanoes and Lake Kivu. The park covers an area of 765 km2 and is home to a wide variety of fascinating species including lions, elephants, leopards and buffalos. some of the fun activities there include forest walks, bird watching and visits to the nearby Iby’wachu cultural village where you can learn about the local history and customs of the Rwandan people. This is a great day trip out of the city and allows you to explore a stunning part of the country without having to worry about catching a taxi or public transport at the end of your excursion, Top 7 Tourist Activities to do in Gishwati Mukura National park.
- A trip to Musanze Gorilla Park
After 2 hours drive from Kigali city to the Park gate, You will start your trek through the jungle in search of the rare mountain gorillas for half and hour. It’s an amazing encounter with these gentle giants but bear in mind only 80 visitors are allowed to go gorilla trekking per day to avoid damage to habitat and interference with the animal’s natural behaviours. Once in the jungle you will follow your guide through a trail winding across bamboo platforms along which the gorillas sometimes move during the day in search of food. As you make your way along the trail, you will be sure to see and hear a range of bird species such as hornbills, sunbirds and woodpeckers as well as monkeys and other mammals that inhabit the forest. Once you locate the gorillas you will have a short time to observe them up close before they move on and you have to begin the trek back to the park entrance.
