Nyungwe National Park has introduced new aerial experiences that allow visitors to enjoy the scenery from above, places that are otherwise unreachable by foot, deep within the dense forest.
To solve this, the park has introduced new aerial experiences that allow visitors to enjoy the scenery from above, places that are otherwise unreachable by foot, deep within the dense forest. While the famous Canopy Walk has long been a favorite, a new activityâ€"zipliningâ€"is redefining how tourists interact with Nyungwe's natural wonders.
Ziplining is a thrilling experience where visitors glide above the forest suspended on secure cables, offering panoramic views and a new perspective of the park. Though new to Nyungwe, ziplining has existed globally for centuries, traced back to 250 BC in China or India, where merchants used ropes strung between mountains to move goods efficiently. Today, that same principle powers adventure, science, and tourism.
In Nyungwe, the zipline features three routes named after local wildlife, like the chimpanzee. The longest route stretches 1,020 meters, and the entire journey totals 1,850 meters. The experience begins in Gisakura, where trained guides welcome visitors and ease their nerves, especially for first-timers. They explain the safety procedures, provide harnesses, and ensure tourists are securely fastened before launch. The guides lead the way, preparing the landing area in advance, which is equipped with brakes to reduce speed and ensure a safe finish.
Though rare, a rider may stop mid-air. In such cases, guides are trained to reach the person using hand trolleys and safely escort them to the end.
According to one foreign technician involved in building the zipline, 'Many fear falling, but it's virtually impossible. These cables can hold several tons. It's completely safe.' He praised Rwanda's commitment to quality, calling Nyungwe's zipline one of the best in Africa, thanks to its length, views, and strategic location.
This expert, who has helped build ziplines in over 10 countries, including South Africa, Ghana, and the DRC, said Nyungwe stands out. 'Visitors will immediately notice the difference. The air is fresh, and the scenery is unique,' he said, revealing that construction costs exceeded $1 million.
He expressed confidence in the Rwandan team trained to manage and maintain the facility, saying, 'They know what to do. They're skilled technicians who can solve any issue.'
The zipline is expected to boost tourism to Nyungwe National Park, with projections of up to 9,000 visitors in the next five years.
Right next to the canopy walk
Just a short walk from the zipline is the Canopy Walk, a 170-meter-long suspended bridge that rises 70 meters above ground. Before crossing, guides explain safety and techniques, then lead the group, sharing insights about the surrounding flora such as the symbolic Igishigishigi tree.
From the bridge, you can spot birds feeding on nearby trees and take breathtaking photos. Guides help with ideal angles and safe photo spots. The bridge supports up to eight people and can carry up to four tons.
The round trip from the bridge back to the visitor center takes around 40 minutes on foot, with the path offering encounters with native plants, animals, and trees, each explained in detail by the guides.
In 2021, Nyungwe's economic value was estimated at $4.8 billion. In 2024, Rwanda's tourism revenue reached $647 million, up 4.3% from the previous year. The number of visitors to Nyungwe alone rose by 20% compared to 2023.
This shows how Nyungwe continues to attract local and international tourists, with discounted prices encouraging Rwandans to explore their own natural heritage.
Above all, Nyungwe is a powerful reminder of the deep bond between people and biodiversity.
The canopy walkway
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/tourism/article/embracing-the-thrill-of-ziplining-in-nyungwe-national-park
