Gishwati forest is a protected reserve east of Gisenyi town. You can reach the forest from the road between Rubavu and Karongi. Large tea estates occupy the central and northern parts of the reserve. Bring your hiking gear to explore the forest at your leisure. This forest is excellent for bird watching!
Giswati forest reserve protects a total of 58 different species of trees and shrubs and 34% of the total numbers of tree species are exotic species. It is amazing that this forest hosts four types of primates and among which include the Chimpanzees, Mountain monkeys, Golden Monkeys, and Blue Monkeys.
More than 100 species of birds like Ruwenzori Batis, Ruwenzori Turaco, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Regal Sunbird, Red-throated Alethe, Strange Weaver, Stripe-breasted Tit and two vulnerable IUCN listed species Martial Eagle and Grey Crowned Crane.
Rwanda is mountainous countries with forests hosting a variety of tourist attractions which include birds and animals. Among the birds, sanctuaries include Nyungwe forest, cyamudongo forest, Akagera National park, Volcanoes and above all, the Gihwati forest reserve.