Distance and driving time
Nyungwe is about 220–230 km from Kigali, around 4.5 to 5 hours of driving without long stops. The paved main road goes south through Muhanga and Huye (Butare), then west through Nyamagabe and straight through the forest.
Break up the journey
- Huye, about halfway, is a good lunch stop and home to the Ethnographic Museum.
- The road through the forest is spectacular, with viewpoints over the canopy. Drive it slowly and in daylight.
- Many visitors continue from Nyungwe to Lake Kivu at Rusizi or Karongi to make a loop back to Kigali.
Which car to choose
The main road to and through Nyungwe is paved, so an automatic SUV like the Toyota RAV4 or Kia Sorento is comfortable. If you plan to visit lodges or trailheads on unpaved side roads, consider a 4x4. Unlimited mileage is included, so the long drive does not cost extra.
| Car | Seats | Gearbox | Price per day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 2002SUV | 5 | Automatic | $35 |
| Toyota RAV4 2010SUV | 5 | Automatic | $50 |
| Kia SorentoSUV | 7 | Automatic | $55 |
| Toyota RAV4 2018SUV | 5 | Automatic | $65 |
| Toyota RAV4 2024SUV | 5 | Automatic | $70 |
| Honda Full Electric 2025Electric SUV | 5 | Automatic | $75 |
| Toyota Prado 20144x4 SUV | 7 | Manual | $80 |
| Safari CarSafari 4x4 | 8 | Manual | $170 |
Plan your time
Chimpanzee trekking starts very early in the morning, so spend at least one night near the park. Two or three nights let you add the canopy walkway and forest hikes. Fill up with fuel in Huye or Nyamagabe before entering the forest.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to drive from Kigali to Nyungwe?
About 4.5 to 5 hours without long stops, on paved roads via Huye.
Do I need a 4x4 for Nyungwe?
Not for the main road, which is paved. A 4x4 helps on unpaved side roads to some lodges and trailheads, especially after rain.