Rwanda is a land of beauty, wonder, and diversity. From the lush green hills to the rare and endangered wildlife, Rwanda is a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts. One of the most thrilling wildlife experiences in Rwanda is chimpanzee tracking. Chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda is a unique experience that takes you through the stunning forests of Nyungwe National Park, where you get a chance to see these playful primates in their natural habitat.
Nyungwe National Park is a vast forested area covering over 1,000 square kilometers, located in the southwestern part of Rwanda. The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with over 13 species of primates, including the famous chimpanzees. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda.
Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park is one of the best places on earth to do chimpanzee tracking. A safari in Rwanda offers this amazing adventure that leads you into the remote tropical rain forests of Africa on search for wild chimpanzees on a trail through which you will discover many other amazing things! Though most renowned for chimpanzees, Nyungwe forests hosts a wide variety of flora and fauna including 12 different primate species.
At present its believed that there are about five hundred individual chimpanzees, man’s closest relatives that live within Nyungwe Forest and the other minor society lives in the Cyamudongo Forest. However it stays faintly feasible that a minor population registered in the early on nineties in the further northwards as well as badly degraded Gishwati forest further remains. Though Rwanda is one most known for gorilla tracking, it is the third best place in Africa to do chimpanzee tracking (according to me)!
The Rwanda Development Board and ORTPN have developed several trails in the forest that you will take during your chimpanzee safari within the Nyungwe. Throughout the rainy period, a troop of chimpanzees regularly gets into Uwinka plus the coloured trail further, and it’s equal to you to choose whether to pay off more to track them. During a hike through the forest you’ll hear them earlier than you see them; from someplace deep in the jungle, an excited hooting, basically a single voice at the start, and then numerous, rising in volume with momentum and pitch to a fanatical united increasing, earlier than stopping unexpectedly or fading away.
Contrary to certain primates, chimps do not live in troops, however in form of extended communities of equal to 100 masses, which stray the jungle in minor socially mobile sub categories that frequently circle around a number of close family groups like brothers or a mother with daughter. Chap chimpanzees commonly spend their whole living within the society into which they were delivered; where as female chimpanzees are likely to move into a near community at some point later on getting adolescence.
Why Go Chimpanzee Tracking in Rwanda?
Chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda is a unique experience that allows you to observe the playful primates in their natural habitat. It's a thrilling adventure that takes you through the dense forests of Nyungwe National Park, where you can witness the diversity of wildlife that inhabit the area.
Apart from chimpanzees, the park is home to over 300 bird species, 75 different species of mammals, and 13 species of primates, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you shouldn't miss.
Best Time for Chimpanzee Tracking in Rwanda
The best time for chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During this time, the trails are dry and easy to navigate, and the chimpanzees are more active and easier to spot.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park is home to over 500 chimpanzees, making it one of the best places in the world for chimpanzee tracking. The park has several trails that lead to the chimpanzee's habitats, and visitors can choose between a half-day or full-day chimpanzee tracking experience.
The park also offers guided tours that provide visitors with information about the chimpanzees' behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the park's wildlife, making the experience more informative and enjoyable.
Chimpanzee Behavior and Habitat
Chimpanzees are social animals that live in large groups called communities. They are omnivores, feeding on fruits, leaves, insects, and occasionally small animals. Chimpanzees are known for their intelligence, tool-making abilities, and playful behavior.
What to Expect During Chimpanzee Tracking
Chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda is an exciting experience that involves hiking through the forest in search of the primates. Visitors are accompanied by experienced guides who lead them to the chimpanzees' habitats. The tracking experience can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzees. Visitors are required to keep a safe distance from the primates and are not allowed to feed or touch them. The guides provide information about the chimpanzees' behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts during the tracking experience.
Chimpanzee Tracking Tips and Preparation
Before embarking on a chimpanzee tracking adventure in Rwanda, there are several things you need to know. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the experience:
1. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothing
2. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
3. Carry a backpack with water and snacks
4. Bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture the primates' behavior
5. Follow the guides' instructions and keep a safe distance from the chimpanzees
Frequently Asked Questions About Chimpanzee Tracking
Is chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda safe?
Yes, chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda is safe as long as visitors follow the guides' instructions and keep a safe distance from the primates.
Can children participate in chimpanzee tracking?
Children under the age of 12 are not allowed to participate in chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park.
What is the best time to see chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park?
The best time to see chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February.
Conclusion
Chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda is a unique and thrilling wildlife experience that takes visitors through the stunning forests of Nyungwe National Park. It's an opportunity to witness the playful primates in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts. With the help of experienced guides, visitors can safely track the chimpanzees and create unforgettable memories. If you're a wildlife enthusiast, don't miss the chance to go chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda.
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