Chimpanzee Trekking
01Set out at dawn with park guides to meet Nyungwe's chimpanzee families—stays at the lodge make the early start effortless.
Gateway to Nyungwe National ParkNyungwe
Nyungwe
Nziza Ecolodge
A sanctuary of peace on the edge of Africa's oldest rainforest. Meet chimpanzees at dawn, walk the canopy at noon, and rest under the stars.
Scroll to discover
The LocationWhere the Tea Fields
Primate Species 13 Bird Species 300+ Forest Age Ancient Canopy Walk 60m
Where the Tea Fields
Meet the Rainforest
Nyungwe Nziza Ecolodge rests in Kitabi Sector, exactly where the tarmac road ends and Africa's oldest rainforest begins. As the final hospitality stop before entering Nyungwe National Park, we are the bridge between the vibrant local community and the pristine wilderness.
Our semi-traditional architecture pays homage to Nyamagabe's craftsmanship, blending rustic textures with refined comfort. From your private deck, watch the mist roll over endless tea plantations—a daily spectacle of light and shadow.
UNESCO World Heritage 2023
LocationKitabi Sector, Nyamagabe District
SettingOn the edge of Nyungwe National Park
ViewsTea gardens & rainforest ridgelines
TransportTransfers arranged from Kigali & Kamembe
AccommodationSanctuary
Sanctuary
for the Soul
Choose between deluxe tented rooms for a closer connection to the forest or semi-traditional lodge rooms with the warmth of polished wood.
01
Deluxe Tented Rooms
Spacious canvas tents with solar lighting, cotton sheets, and private verandas pair rustic adventure with steady comfort—ideal for travellers who want to sleep within earshot of the forest.
- Private bathrooms with hot showers
- Locally crafted tables and chairs
- Hot-water bottles for cool evenings
02
Deluxe Rooms
Semi-traditional wood cottages finished with warm timber furniture and soft linens offer a grounded base after canopy walks or long drives.
- Double or twin configurations
- Reliable hot water and solar lighting
- Balconies or terraces overlooking the hills
ExperiencesCurated
Curated
Adventures
Being at the park entrance means dawn departures are effortless. We handle the logistics so you can focus on the forest.
Canopy Walk & Forest Trails
02Reach the canopy walkway, waterfall hikes, and birding routes within minutes—perfect for spotting primates and Albertine Rift species.
Tea & Cultural Visits
03Walk the neighbouring tea plantations or join community-led cultural experiences that share Kitabi's stories.
Nyungwe WildlifeEncounters in the
Encounters in the
Ancient Forest
Nyungwe National Park is home to 13 primate species, over 300 bird species, and a diversity of wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.
primate
Chimpanzees
Home to 400-500 chimpanzees in habituated groups. Join dawn treks to observe our closest relatives in their natural habitat.
primate
Colobus Monkeys
Africa's largest troops of Angolan Colobus monkeys, with supergroups of 500+ individuals—a phenomenon unique to Nyungwe.
bird
Great Blue Turaco
Magnificent birds with vibrant blue plumage and red breast patches, iconic to the Albertine Rift's 300+ bird species.
mammal
Forest Elephants
Elusive forest elephants occasionally traverse the ancient trails—sightings are rare but magical.
13Primate Species
300+Bird Species
30Endemic Species
2023UNESCO Heritage
Amenities & DiningRest, Refuel,
Rest, Refuel,
Reconnect
After long drives and early-morning treks, unwind with hearty meals, warm gathering spaces, and the hillside views that make Nyungwe Nziza Ecolodge a restful pause between adventures.
Restaurant & Bar
Fuel days in the forest with a mix of local dishes and familiar favourites—every stay includes a hearty American breakfast in the main restaurant.
Firepit & Lounge
Swap stories around the outdoor fire, relax in the common lounge, and stay connected with WiFi available in shared spaces.
Gardens & Terraces
Unwind on the hillside terraces, leafy gardens, and balconies that showcase tea fields, forested mountains, and sunset skies.
Our CommitmentTourism with
Tourism with
Purpose
Staying at Nyungwe Nziza Ecolodge keeps you in the buffer zone—close enough to reach trailheads at dawn, and close enough for neighbouring families to benefit from your visit.
01
Our buffer-zone location keeps visitor spending in Kitabi while easing pressure on Nyungwe’s protected core.
02
We partner with local drivers, guides, and farmers so that every visit supports neighbouring households.
03
Park authorities and community leaders collaborate with us to share conservation updates with guests.
Guest NotesWords from the
Words from the
Wild
“The location is peaceful with stunning views. The chalet was comfortable, and the fire in the evening made it cosy!”
“I had the best stay at Nziza Ecolodge. The place has a family feel, and the staff helped me plan every part of my Nyungwe trip. Comfortable beds, pristine linens, and that Napolitana pasta was a delicious treat!”
“Facilities were excellent—we loved warming up with the hot shower after a rainy hike and unwinding in the supremely comfortable beds. Generous, tasty meals rounded out every day.”
Plan Your StayYour Journey
Your Journey
Starts Here
Book directly or through our trusted partners. Either way, we'll be ready to welcome you to the rainforest.
Prefer to email us?
support@nyungwenzizaecolodge.com