Cyinzobe Adventure in Nyungwe National Park, 3-Day Hike

An unforgettable journey awaits you along the Cyinzobe Trail in Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park. Nestled deep in one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, the trail immerses you in nature and rewards you with stunning biodiversity. Whether a wildlife enthusiast, hiker, nature photographer, or a curious traveler, the 3-day hike along the Cyinzobe Trail promises awe, serenity, and adventure.

The Journey Begins on Day 1 of the Cyinzobe Trail

We began our journey as a group of eight eager hikers, accompanied by an experienced park guide who gathered us for a short but insightful briefing at around 1 PM. Once we entered the forest, a chorus of birdsong and cicadas greeted us, its volume second only to ours; our guide reminded us of the importance of silence in the forest. In silence, we’d be able to enjoy the soft sounds of the rustling tree ferns and vibrant calls of birds like the Rwenzori turaco, red-throated alethe, northern puffback, great blue turaco, and Narina trogon.

Reaching the First Campsite, Kamiranzovu Swamp Views, and Dinner by Campfire

We reached our first campsite by evening, welcomed with warm smiles, fresh coffee, hot chocolate, and sweeping views of the Kamiranzovu Swamp below. Our rooms, five triangular huts with back-door views of the swamp, lacked nothing. There were warm blankets, bath towels, bedside lights, space to hang items, and even slippers! Across the way were flushing toilets and outdoor showers that staff would pre-fill with warm water when we were ready. In the outdoor dining space, bright-colored blankets decorated the wooden chairs placed around the fire. After warm showers and a delicious dinner, we returned to the chairs around the fire, wrapped ourselves in the blankets, and listened as the guide shared the legend of Kamiranzovu, the swamp that swallowed elephants.

“This Nyungwe forest used to be home to elephants, and during colonial times, poachers hunted them. But the elephants escaped by crossing the swamp, which the poachers couldn’t cross. They would say, ‘the swamp swallowed our elephants.’”

The night brought a new wave of sounds of tree hyrax calls, frog croaks, and the occasional rustling of unseen creatures. It was peaceful yet slightly frightening to consider all that hid in the darkness.

Magical Misty Mornings and a Walk Around Kamiranzovu Swamp

We woke up early to amist-covered view of the Kamiranzovu Swamp, lit up by the soft hues of the morning sun. After a hearty breakfast, and with packed lunches in our bags, we began our second day of hiking. Thankfully, we were able to leave much of our load with the porters, so our packs were lighter than the previous day. This day’s journey was a bit more challenging with rocky paths, narrow bridges, and steep ascents and descents, but it was equally rewarding. We spent much of the day walking along the edges of Kamiranzovu Swamp, marveling at its green stillness, floating vegetation, and surrounding tree canopy. Here, the forest seems to speak; every bird call, frog croak, and rustle of leaves adds to the story. If you’re lucky, you may even see colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, or chimpanzees.

The Cyinzobe Waterfall and Camp by the River in Nyungwe National Park

As the day wrapped up, we walked along a clear forest river, its rushing stream guiding us to the Cyinzobe Waterfall, one of the highlights of the trail. The waterfall was powerful yet peaceful, its mist refreshing and its sound soothing. We all fell into silence for a moment of reflection before continuing to our second campsite. If we thought the first day’s campsite was as beautiful as it got, then campsite two proved us wrong. Its idyllic setting along the river and nestled amongst towering trees was a scene fit for storybooks. The river also doubled as a natural fridge for our drinks and pain reliever after a long day’s hike. That night, with the stars above and the river alongside us, we sat around the fire with gratitude, sharing stories and laughter as we did the night before. We retreated to our huts to the sounds of frogs, birds, and the flowing water, a great ending to an epic day. 

The Grand Finale on Day 3

Breakfast and a family of great blue turaco energized us for our final day of hiking. As we continued along the river, dwarfed by trees, we couldn’t help but imagine dinosaurs roaming this very environment. A steep detour took us to the Kamiranzovu Waterfall, a must-see steeped in local legends and ecological importance. On our way back from the waterfall, we spotted many mangabey, monna, and red-tailed monkeys.

Cyinzobe Trail Highlights

1. Cyinzobe and Kamiranzovu Waterfalls

The Kamiranzovu waterfalls along the trail are more than scenic stops, they are spiritual places where nature displays its raw beauty. The surrounding mists, moss-covered rocks, and the chance to spot bats or rare plants make these spots ideal for rest and reflection.

2. Kamiranzovu Swamp

Nyungwe National Park has several swamp, but this iconic swamp is the largest in Nyungwe forest and a biodiversity hotspot. Its mythical history, paired with the mesmerizinglandscape, makes it a central point of the trail.

3. Rare Birds and Monkeys

Nyungwe forest is a birdwatcher’s paradise. During your hike, watch for colorful bird species and playful monkeys including: Colobus monkeys, Red-tailed monkeys, Mona monkeys, Silver monkeys, and Chimpanzees (if you’re lucky!)

4. Spectacular Forest Views

At several points along the trail, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views of rollinghills, rainforest canopies, and misty valleys. Be sure to bring your camera as you’ll want to capture these scenes.

5. Cultural Stories

Your guides aren’t only navigators, they’re storytellers, historians, and protectors of the forest. Along the trail, you’ll learn about plants used in traditional medicine, local customs, and the community’s deep connection to the forest.

Essential Tips for a Great Cyinzobe Trail Experience

1. Always Hike With a Guide

The trail is only accessible with a licensed guide. These experts keep you safe and make the journey more educational and meaningful.

2. What to Pack:

• Comfortable hiking clothes
• Long pants and long socks
• Waterproof jacket
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• A reusable water bottle
• Headlamp or small flashlight
• Backpack raincover or waterproof dry bag
• A camera

3. Respect the Forest

Nyungwe is a protected national park, so follow these simple rules:

• Stay on designated trails
• Don’t litter
• Avoid making loud noises
• Don’t pick plants or disturb wildlife

4. Book in Advance

Only 10 hikers are allowed per group, and the trail can get fully booked quickly during high season. Book at least 10 days in advance to secure your spot.