Background

Ruvubu National Park: Burundi's Untamed Wilderness

Explore Burundi's largest national park: a haven for diverse wildlife, birdwatching, and immersive safari experiences in a pristine natural setting.

4.5

Ruvubu National Park, Burundi's largest, offers a diverse landscape of savannahs, forests, and wetlands. Established in 1980, it's a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers, home to over 400 bird species and various mammals, including hippos and buffalo.

A brief summary to Ruvubu National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (June to August) 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 sufficient water and snacks, as amenities within the park are limited.
  • Book accommodations and camping in advance due to limited options.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Road

    Ruvubu National Park is approximately 216 km from Bujumbura. The most common way to access the park is by road, with the journey taking around 2 to 3 hours. You can hire private vehicles or take public transportation, although it is recommended to arrange transportation in advance for a smoother experience. The roads leading to the park can be bumpy, so it's advisable to travel in a sturdy vehicle. Hiring a private taxi from Buragane will typically cost around 50,000 to 70,000 Burundian Francs for a one-way trip.

  • Public Transportation

    From Bujumbura, take a bus to Gitega, the administrative capital. From Gitega, you can find transport to smaller towns closer to the park, such as Cankuzo or Ruyigi. From these towns, motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas) can take you to the park entrance. The bus fare from Bujumbura to Gitega is approximately 3,000-5,000 Burundian Francs. The motorcycle ride to the park entrance will cost around 2,000 to 5,000 Burundian Francs.

Unlock the Best of Ruvubu National Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Ruvubu National Park

Ruvubu National Park, established in 1980, is Burundi's largest national park, spanning approximately 508 square kilometers across the provinces of Cankuzo, Karuzi, Muyinga, and Ruyigi. The park extends southwest from the Tanzanian border, dominated by the Ruvubu River valley. This park is the last remaining natural grassland ecosystem that once covered much of northeastern Burundi. The park's diverse ecosystems include savannahs, wetlands, and riverine forests, supporting a wide array of flora and fauna. It is home to 44 mammal species, including hippos, buffalo, leopards, monkeys, antelopes, and lions. The Ruvubu River attracts a variety of waterbirds, making it a birder's paradise with over 400 recorded species, including the endangered Burundi black kite and Grauer's swamp warbler. Visitors can enjoy game drives, bird watching, and guided walks. Boat safaris on the Ruvubu River offer a chance to spot aquatic wildlife like Nile crocodiles and hippos. Walking safaris provide an intimate experience of the African wilderness, with opportunities to encounter buffaloes and diverse plant species. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to August, for optimal wildlife viewing. While lodging within the park is limited, camping facilities are available, and accommodations can be found in nearby towns. Ruvubu National Park is a vital conservation area, contributing to the preservation of Burundi's biodiversity and offering a unique and tranquil safari experience.

Popular Experiences near Ruvubu National Park

Popular Hotels near Ruvubu National Park

Select Currency