Description
Uwinka Campsite is located inside Nyungwe National Park in southwestern Rwanda, and it’s one of the most popular campsites for travelers looking to explore the park’s incredible biodiversity. Situated at the park’s main visitor center – Uwinka Reception Center, Uwinka offers a convenient base for accessing some of the park’s key attractions, including chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks, and a variety of hiking trails. The visitor center is situated on a ridge with amazing views of the surrounding rain forests.
How to access the campsite
Located at Uwinka Visitor Center, Uwinka Campsite is easily accessible by road from major cities like Kigali (approximately 5 hours by car) and nearby towns like Cyangugu (40 minutes). It’s well connected by Rwanda’s paved roads, and there are signs leading to Nyungwe National Park along the way.
Facilities and Amenities at the campsite
Uwinka Campsite is more of a basic, eco-friendly facility that provides a close-to-nature experience. While it doesn’t offer the luxury of some of the lodges nearby, it has enough amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for campers.
Campsites: The campsite offers a flat, open area for pitching tents. Visitors can bring their own camping equipment, though in some cases, it may be possible to rent tents and other gear.
Toilets and Showers: The campsite has shared basic toilet and shower facilities, which are clean but simple, providing running water and basic necessities.
Cooking Area: There is a common area for cooking, though visitors will need to bring their own cooking equipment and supplies. You can either prepare your own meals or arrange for meals at nearby lodges or guesthouses.
Picnic Tables: Some picnic tables are available where visitors can sit, enjoy meals, or just relax in the serene surroundings.
Parking: There’s parking space at the campsite for those traveling by private vehicle.
Activities to do while at the Campsite
Staying at Uwinka Campsite gives you direct access to many of the activities offered by Nyungwe National Park. Some of these activities include;
Chimpanzee Trekking: This is the most done activity in Nyungwe forest national park. It involves hiking through the park rain forests in search of the apes. These guided treks into the forest start early in the morning, and while sightings are not guaranteed, the chance to observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat is unforgettable.
Canopy Walk: The famous Nyungwe Canopy Walk starts at the Uwinka Visitor Center, making it one of the easiest activities to access from the campsite. This 160-meter long suspension bridge takes you 50 meters above the forest floor, offering breathtaking views of the rainforest and the chance to see wildlife from the treetops.
Hiking Trails: Uwinka is the starting point for many of Nyungwe’s hiking trails, which vary in difficulty and length. Some popular trails accessible from Uwinka include:
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- Igishigishigi Trail: A short and easy hike (about 1.5 hours) that is also the route to the canopy walk.
- Umuyove Trail: Known for its beautiful waterfall and forest views, this trail is about 3-4 hours long.
- Imbaraga Trail: Known as the most challenging trail, Imbaraga takes about 6 hours and offers scenic viewpoints of the park’s diverse landscapes.
Birdwatching: Nyungwe is home to over 300 species of birds, many of them rare or endemic to the Albertine Rift region. From Uwinka, it’s easy to access bird watching areas where species like the Great Blue Turaco, Rwenzori Turaco, and other brightly colored birds can be spotted.
Primate Viewing: Besides chimpanzees, Nyungwe is home to other primates like the L’Hoest’s monkey, Angolan colobus, and Owl-faced monkeys, and staying at Uwinka gives you a good chance to spot them while hiking.
Costs and campsite Booking
Camping Fees: The camping fees are quite affordable, making Uwinka Campsite a great option for budget travelers who want to explore Nyungwe without the cost of staying in a luxury lodge. Fees typically cover the campsite access and the use of basic amenities. To ensure space at the campsite, especially during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to book ahead through the Rwanda Development Board or local tour operators.
Tips for Campers
Here are important things to know;
What to Bring: Bring sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and warm clothing, as temperatures can be cool in the evenings due to the park’s high elevation. Don’t forget insect repellent, sunscreen, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Food and Water: Since the campsite doesn’t have dining facilities, you’ll need to bring your own food or make arrangements at a nearby lodge. Bottled water is available at the visitor center, but it’s best to bring your own supply.
In conclusion, Uwinka Campsite is an excellent choice for nature lovers and budget-conscious travelers who want to experience the wild beauty of Nyungwe National Park.
