Forest Facts - Nyungwe National Park - Antioch University New England

Facts About Nyungwe Forest

Area

970 square kilometers (378 square miles), the largest single forest block in East Africa.

Elevation

Between 1,600 meters and 2,950 meters (Between 5,600 feet and 9,700 feet).

Temperature range

0-30 degrees C (32-85 degrees F, average daytime temperature: 15.5 degrees C (60 degrees F).

Rainfall

1800-2500 mm per year (71-78 inches).

Rainy season

September to May.

Dry Season

June to August, with several dry weeks in December/January.

Forest Type

Nyungwe is made up of a complex matrix of Albertine Rift montane forest. Nyungwe is known for its rugged terrain and complex mosaic of dense vegetation types from tall dense forests to open, flower filled marshes. The park has a varied topography with varied soil types providing microhabitats for both plants and animals. Moist, fertile soil supports tall forests, while dry ridges provide habitat for shorter trees and thickets. The southeastern portion of the forest is blanketed with bamboo, an important commodity, while flooded forests, marshes, and open harbaceous ground cover are interspersed throughout.