Mukura Forest Reserve is a protected area located in southwestern Rwanda, near the border with Burundi.

Location:

• Mukura Forest Reserve is situated in the Nyungwe Forest region, one of the largest and most biodiverse montane rainforests in East Africa.
• The reserve covers an area of approximately 2,500 hectares and is part of the larger Nyungwe National Park complex.

Biodiversity:

• Montane Rainforest: Mukura Forest Reserve is characterized by its lush montane rainforest, which is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species.
• Endemic Species: The forest is home to several endemic and endangered species, including the Ruwenzori colobus monkey and the Rwenzori turaco.
• Birdlife: Mukura Forest is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 bird species recorded, including the Albertine Rift endemics and numerous forest-dwelling species.

Activities:

• Nature Walks and Hiking: Visitors to Mukura Forest Reserve can enjoy guided nature walks and hiking trails through the forest, offering opportunities to observe wildlife, birds, and plant life.
• Community Tourism: Mukura Forest Reserve is managed in collaboration with local communities, and visitors can engage in community tourism activities such as cultural experiences, village visits, and homestays.
• Conservation Education: The reserve also serves as an educational center for conservation awareness and environmental education programs, aimed at local communities and visitors alike.

Landscape:

• Mukura Forest Reserve is characterized by its rugged terrain, with steep hills, deep valleys, and dense vegetation.
• The forest is part of the Congo-Nile Divide, with streams and rivers flowing from its slopes into both the Congo River basin and the Nile River basin.
• The landscape offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Conservation:

• Mukura Forest Reserve is managed by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in collaboration with local communities and conservation organizations.
• Conservation efforts in the reserve focus on protecting its biodiversity, restoring degraded areas, and promoting sustainable tourism and community development.
• The reserve is part of the larger Nyungwe National Park complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in Africa.

Accessibility:

• Mukura Forest Reserve is accessible by road from major cities and towns in Rwanda, including Kigali and Huye (formerly Butare).
• Visitors can arrange guided tours and transportation through tour operators and accommodations in the nearby towns.