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Ruvubu National Park: Burundi's Untamed Wilderness

Explore Burundi's largest national park, a haven for diverse wildlife and bird species along the scenic Ruvubu River.

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Ruvubu National Park, Burundi's largest, offers a diverse landscape of savannahs, forests, and wetlands along the Ruvubu River. Established in 1980, it's a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

A brief summary to Ruvubu National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (June-September) for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
  • Hire a local guide for deeper insights into the park's ecology and wildlife.
  • Pack water and snacks, as amenities inside the park are limited.
  • Respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and following park regulations.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Buragane, take Route Nationale 1 east towards Ruyigi. At the junction near Ruyigi, turn left onto Route Nationale 15 north. Follow the road for approximately 40 kilometers until you see signs for Ruvubu National Park. The entrance will be on your right. Entrance fees range from 5,000 to 10,000 Burundian Francs.

  • Public Transport

    From Buragane, take a bus to Ruyigi. Buses depart frequently throughout the day. From Ruyigi, hire a motorcycle taxi (boda boda) to the park entrance. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes and costs around 2,000 to 5,000 Burundian Francs.

  • Taxi

    Hire a private taxi from Buragane for a direct route to Ruvubu National Park. Negotiate the fare beforehand, typically costing between 50,000 to 70,000 Burundian Francs for a one-way trip. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Unlock the Best of Ruvubu National Park

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Discover more about Ruvubu National Park

Ruvubu National Park, also known as Parc National de la Ruvubu, is Burundi's largest protected area, established in 1980 to conserve the region's unique biodiversity. Situated in the northeastern part of the country, the park spans 508 square kilometers across the provinces of Cankuzo, Karuzi, Muyinga, and Ruyigi. The park borders Tanzania to the south and is dominated by the Ruvubu River valley. The park's diverse ecosystems include savannahs, swamps, forests, and riverine habitats. The Ruvubu River meanders through the park, sustaining a variety of flora and fauna. Ruvubu is home to diverse wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, warthogs, antelopes, and various primate species like olive baboons and red colobus monkeys. Birdwatching is a popular activity, with over 200 recorded species, including the African fish eagle and great blue turaco. Visitors can explore the park through guided game drives, nature walks, and boat trips on the Ruvubu River. The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to September) for optimal wildlife viewing. While there are currently no established lodges within the park, accommodations can be found in nearby towns. Camping facilities have recently been added.

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