The Flora of Gishwati Forest: Located in the midst of Rwanda, Gishwati Forest is a perfect example of the richness of Rwandese flora and fauna. Gishwati used to be a large primary rainforest but is now only a small natural forest today but still, it hosts so many and varied plant species. This is a place where the wind blows with the sweet fragrance of the acrid smell of spices and plants, every camber holds a surprise. Gishwati forest is of course a dream place for anybody interested in the plant world.
It was established that Gishwati has developed over more than 230 million years and has been very central in Rwanda’s natural history. Currently, it occupies an area of approximately 6,200 hats and plays a significant role in Rwandan reforestation projects that focus on the restoration of plant species. This is arguably one of the strongest selling points of Gishwati due to its ability to support not only lowland rainforest-style species but also the montane type of species.
A Botanical Tour along Gishwati Forest
In as much as the scenery offered by Gishwati Forest is breathtaking, any visit to this forest requires some good planning. The most suitable time to go trekking is during the dry season which lasts from June up to September. Indeed, walking on the forest floor in areas like this becomes much easier during this time of the year since there is no loose snow, therefore trails are less slippery. Forests can be quite warm and saturated with heat and humidity so, one should wear loose, preferably light, clothing; it is also necessary to take an aluminum waterproof coat with you as rain is possible there. Shoes to wear should be good hiking shoes, but not necessarily walking sneakers, but rather comfortable boots.
For those who would prefer to lodge outside the forest perimeter, there are a number of standards and even high-end lodges and eco-friendly camps that play a key role as entry points to the forest. This could be a luxurious full-service resort or a small cabin nestled in the woods, there is almost every type of accommodation that fits almost every need and pocket.
There is also a variety of endemic flora and many rare species of plants, which creates a great interest for traveling botanists. Gishwati Golden Bamboo is critically endangered; more so the rare Eastern Arc Afromontane plant species are also endangered. Gishwati also hosts almost all types of tree species which are around 200 in number and many of them are endangered, some examples are the African Mahogany, African Oak, etc.
When strolling in the dense sub-canopy you will find myself surrounded by hundreds of ferns, vines, and epiphytes, that add up to the rich plant life of Gishwati forest. The biome of the area consists of swamp forests and dry evergreen forests which are supported by the grassland biome; All these areas host relatively amazing types of plant species.
Gishwati Forest and Biodiversity
Birding enthusiasts especially will have a field day in Gishwati Forest. There is bird watching in the forest with well over 100 documented bird species within the park. New faces that you may be privileged to see include the Rwenzori Turaco, African Grey Parrot, and Nelicourvi Weaver amongst others.
Possibly one of the best benefits of a visit to Gishwati Forest has got to be the ability to participate in its preservation in one way or another. In Rwanda, measures of reforestation have enabled various people to physically take part in planting trees and establishing forests. This puts you in a special position to actually participate in the preservation of the forest and plants.
Apart from the forest, there are two popular culture reserves found in the area they are the Iby’Iwacu Village and the Kyanika Market. The cultural places offer visitors a window to understand Rwandese culture and ways of life since they depict Rwandan culture and traditions.
In conclusion, it is possible to state that Gishwati Forest is an excellent place to get a comprehensive and rather inspiring insight into Rwandan vegetation. If you are a nature lover or you are just interested in the discovery of plants you should definitely visit Gishwati Forest. Therefore, if you are ready for an adventure, please come along with your luggage and carry out the exploration of the beauty Flora of the Gishwati Forest.
