Located some 200 kms south west of Kigale and 90 kms. west of Butare this 1000 Sq. km. park is one of the most important areas of biodiversity. It is the largest area of montane forest in Central and Eastern Africa and dates back prior to the last ice age making it the most ancient. With its colorful orchids, giant lobelia and over 200 species of tree this is a nature lover’s paradise. A total of 13 Primate Species can be seen in the park including our closest relation the chimpanzee. Amongst the monkeys are Angolan Colobus, Dents Monkey, Grey-Cheeked Mangabeys, l’Hoests, Diademed Monkeys, Olive Baboons, Vervet Monkeys, Golden and Owl-Faced Monkeys as well as Eastern Needle-Clawed and Greater Galagos. One can say a monkey paradise. A few Elephants live in the park as well as Marsh Mongooses, Congo Clawless Otters, Giant Forest Hogs, Bushpigs, Duikers, Boehms Bush Squirells, Tree Hyraxes, Side striped Jackals, Civets and African Palm Civets as well as Servaline Genets. Birdlife is abundant in the rainforest and there are 24 endemic Albertine Rift Valley species, four Turacos and 13 sunbirds as well as over 230 other species. The Park has over 50 kilometers of walking trails which lead through the forest to fantastic viewing points.