Nyungwe National Park
At a glance
| Inscribed | 2023, natural criterion (x) |
|---|---|
| Area | 101,963.67 ha, with a buffer zone of 10,085.22 ha |
| Component parts | Nyungwe, Gisakura and Cyamudongo natural forests |
| Protected since | 1933 as a forest reserve; national park since 2005 |
| Management | Rwanda Development Board with African Parks |
Source: UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Nyungwe National Park; Rwanda Development Board: Rwanda, African Parks commit to long-term protection of Nyungwe National Park1,2
The forest
Nyungwe lies in the Albertine Rift, one of the richest ecoregions in Africa. It is the largest remaining montane rainforest in Rwanda and includes high-altitude wetlands, peat bogs and grasslands. The Kamiranzovu swamp holds what is thought to be the second largest population of Grauer’s swamp warbler.1
Wildlife
One fifth of Africa’s primate species live in the park, including the eastern chimpanzee, the golden monkey, the Angola colobus and l’Hoest’s monkey. There are 32 amphibian species and at least 290 butterfly species. Hill’s horseshoe bat, which is critically endangered, is found nowhere else.1
Management and local communities
Since 2020 the park has been run under a 20-year agreement between the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks. Ten per cent of park revenue goes to a national fund for projects in neighbouring communities, and a further five per cent to a fund that pays for damage caused by wildlife. Local cooperatives produce tea, milk, fish and honey around the park.1,2
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Nyungwe inscribed by UNESCO?
In 2023. It is Rwanda’s only natural World Heritage site.
How large is Nyungwe?
101,964 ha in the south-west, between 1,480 m and 2,950 m above sea level.
Which primates live in Nyungwe?
One fifth of Africa’s primate species, including the eastern chimpanzee, the golden monkey, the Angola colobus and l’Hoest’s monkey.
Who runs the park?
Since 2020, RDB and African Parks under a 20-year agreement.
Sources
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Nyungwe National Park
- Rwanda Development Board: Rwanda, African Parks commit to long-term protection of Nyungwe National Park
Figures checked 9 November 2026. Prepared by InvestRwanda.com for general information. Figures come from the sources listed.
