Waterfall Trail in Nyungwe Forest

Isumo Waterfall Trail – Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda

The Isumo Waterfall Trail in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda, offers a peaceful and scenic hiking experience through one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Known for its rich biodiversity, the trail is approximately 10.6 kilometers long and takes around 4 to 5 hours to complete. It leads visitors to the stunning 25-meter-high Isumo Waterfalls and passes through lush forest vegetation, streams, and tea plantations. Hikers can expect to encounter various monkey species, birds, butterflies, and beautiful flora along the way.

The journey begins in the morning from Gisakura, with views of tea farms, Lake Kivu, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The trail descends into a dense, steep rainforest ravine after 2.3 kilometers, where cool, moist air rises from the valley. Along the route, hikers can rest on benches surrounded by wildflowers: pink jewelweed, fragrant white begonias, and white flowers with heart-shaped leaves.

At the end of the trail, visitors reach the breathtaking Isumo Waterfall. Along the way, they may also see colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, birds, and natural caves in the cliffs. The hike begins with a briefing at Nyungwe Forest Lodge or Gisakura Guesthouse, either in the morning or afternoon.

This trail is ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers. The walk is moderately challenging and recommended for those in good physical condition. Visitors can enjoy views of tea plantations, small streams, forest slopes, and wildlife. The higher elevation areas mainly feature wildflowers due to the thin vegetation.

Hiking Duration and Start Times

• Duration: 4 to 5 hours, depending on fitness level.

• Start Times: Guided hikes begin at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM daily.

Best Time to Visit

The waterfall trail is open year-round. However, the best months to visit are January, February, June, August, September, and December, when trails are drier and easier to walk. Being a tropical rainforest, rain is common, so it is advisable to bring appropriate gear.

What to Pack

• Rain jacket

• Hiking boots

• Camera with extra batteries

• Binoculars

• Long-sleeved clothing

• Hat and gloves

• Water and energy drinks

• Walking stick (provided free at reception)

Where to Stay

Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a variety of accommodations, including:

• Nyungwe Forest Lodge

• Nyungwe Top View Hotel

• Gisakura Guesthouse

• One&Only Nyungwe House

• Wilderness campground

These lodges are ideal bases for exploring the park and participating in guided hikes.

Getting to Nyungwe Forest

The park is located in southwestern Rwanda near the Burundi border. It takes approximately 5 to 6 hours by road from Kigali. Alternatively, travelers can take a domestic flight with RwandAir from Kigali to Kamembe Airport, which takes about 40 minutes. From Nyungwe, visitors can also explore Volcanoes National Park for gorilla and golden monkey trekking, or Akagera National Park for big five safaris and boat tours on Lake Ihema.

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Other Hiking Trails in Nyungwe Forest

Umuyove Trail

This 5.6 km trail takes about 4 hours. Lined with mahogany trees, it offers scenic views of waterfalls, wildflowers, and birdlife. Hikes start at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

Rukuzi Trail

Famous for chimpanzee sightings, the trail offers beautiful views of Lake Kivu and Banda town. Ideal for primate tracking.

Uwinka Trail

A challenging hike with spectacular views of Kamiranzovu Marsh, tall trees, wild begonias, and frequent sightings of monkeys and turacos.

Kamiranzovu Trail

Leads to the largest wetland in Nyungwe. Features lush forested mountains, waterfalls, swamp species, and rare birds like Grauer’s Swamp Warbler.

Imbaraga Trail

For experienced hikers, this 9.8 km trail features four waterfalls and diverse bird sounds. It offers stunning views of the Bururi Valley.

Bigugu Trail

A 6.6 km trail that ascends Mount Bigugu, the park’s highest peak. Offers views of Lake Kivu and rare flowers. Takes about 6 hours to complete.

Ngabwe Trail

A 4.6 km trail suitable for camping and picnics. Offers birding opportunities and views of the forest canopy. Starts from Kitabi reception at 9:00 AM.

Ndambarare Trail

This 9.6 km trail leads to the Ndambarare Waterfalls. It’s a relatively easy hike offering views of the Gisakura tea estate. Starts at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

Igishigishigi Trail

Best for beginners, this 2.1 km trail offers excellent views of the Canopy Walkway. Takes around 2 hours and begins at the Uwinka Visitor Centre.

Karamba Trail

Located on a former gold mine and military site, this 2 km trail is great for birdwatching. Begins from the Gisakura tourist center at 8:00 AM.

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About Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest is the largest continuous montane rainforest in Eastern Africa, covering 1,015 km². It connects with Burundi’s Kibira National Park and serves as Rwanda’s most crucial water catchment, supplying 70% of the country’s water. It lies at the divide between the Nile and Congo River basins.

A biodiversity hotspot in the Albertine Rift, Nyungwe hosts:

• Over 1,050 plant species, including 200 orchids

• 85 mammal species

• 322 bird species

• 120 butterfly species

• 32 amphibians and 38 reptile species

The forest is home to 13 primate species, including a population of around 500 chimpanzees, Ruwenzori colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. The park features over 130 km of hiking trails and East Africa’s only suspended canopy walk.

Nyungwe Forest, with its beautiful green hills, tea plantations, and pristine jungle, offers a rewarding experience for birders, botanists, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts.