Gishwati-Mukura National Park
At a glance
| Province | Western |
|---|---|
| Area | Gishwati 1,570 ha and Mukura 1,988 ha, 3,558 ha in total |
| Buffer zone | 962 ha: 266 ha at Gishwati and 696 ha at Mukura |
| Created | Law of 15 October 2015, in force 1 February 2016 |
| Managed by | Rwanda Development Board, since 1 October 2019 |
Source: RwandaLII: Law N° 45/2015 of 15/10/2015 establishing Gishwati-Mukura National Park; Rwanda Development Board: RDB takes over management of Gishwati-Mukura National Park1,2
Two restored forests
The Gishwati forest reserve once covered an estimated 250,000 ha, but by the time it became a park only about 600 ha of natural forest was left, a loss of 99.4%. Since 2014 Gishwati and Mukura have been restored under a World Bank landscape project run by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority.2
Wildlife
Gishwati is home to a group of about 20 chimpanzees, as well as golden, l’Hoest’s and blue monkeys. 232 bird species have been seen at Gishwati and 163 at Mukura, and the forests hold about 60 tree species, including native hardwoods and bamboo.3
Visiting and investment
Visitors can take guided nature walks, track chimpanzees and monkeys, watch birds and visit waterfalls. Community activities include farm stays, dance, crafts, beekeeping, tea plantation tours and visits to traditional healers. When it took over the park, RDB was working with Imizi, part of Wilderness Safaris, on a chimpanzee and primate trekking experience.3,2
Frequently Asked Questions
How large is Gishwati-Mukura National Park?
3,558 ha, with a 962 ha buffer zone: Gishwati has 1,570 ha and Mukura 1,988 ha.
When was Gishwati-Mukura created?
By a law of 15 October 2015, in force from 1 February 2016. RDB has run it since 1 October 2019.
Are there chimpanzees in Gishwati?
Yes, a group of about 20, as well as golden, l’Hoest’s and blue monkeys.
What can visitors do in Gishwati-Mukura?
Guided nature walks, chimpanzee and monkey tracking, birdwatching, waterfalls and community activities such as farm stays, beekeeping and tea plantation tours.
Sources
- RwandaLII: Law N° 45/2015 of 15/10/2015 establishing Gishwati-Mukura National Park
- Rwanda Development Board: RDB takes over management of Gishwati-Mukura National Park
- Visit Rwanda (Rwanda Development Board): Gishwati-Mukura National Park
Figures checked 9 November 2026. Prepared by InvestRwanda.com for general information. Figures come from the sources listed.
