Malagarazi Wetlands

The Malagarazi wetlands run along the river of the same name on Burundi's eastern border with Tanzania, a system of papyrus swamp, floodplain and oxbow lakes designated a Ramsar site, holding hippos, crocodiles, sitatunga and a heavy waterbird population. The Malagarazi is the largest tributary of Lake Tanganyika. Access is difficult and the area sees very few visitors. The Malagarazi is older than Lake Tanganyika itself and was flowing before the rift opened the basin.

What you actually see

• The papyrus swamp - the reed system along the river and its floodplain.
• The sitatunga - the swamp-adapted antelope living in the reeds.
• The hippos and crocodiles - the large animals in the river and pools.
• The Ramsar status - protection covering the wetland system.

When to go

June to September is the dry season and the practical window. The rains from October flood the plain and close the tracks. Wildlife concentrates as the water drops.

Honest expectations

There is no infrastructure and access needs a guide and four wheel drive on rough tracks. Sitatunga sightings are very unlikely. Border proximity means checkpoints.

Nearby

Ruyigi is west, and the Tanzanian border is east.