Ruvubu National Park

Ruvubu is the largest protected area in Burundi, running along the Ruvubu river valley in the northeast with savanna on the slopes, gallery forest along the water and papyrus swamp in the bends. Buffalo, hippo, several antelope species and around four hundred bird species live in it. Leopard are present but almost never seen. Tracks run through the park and walking is possible with rangers.

What you actually see

• The river valley - the Ruvubu winding through the middle of the park.
• The gallery forest - the tree cover along the water.
• The buffalo and antelope - the larger animals on the savanna slopes.
• The bird list - around four hundred species recorded in the park.

When to go

June to September is the dry season and the practical window. The rains from October to May make tracks difficult. Wildlife concentrates near the river late in the dry.

Honest expectations

Infrastructure is minimal with basic camping rather than lodges. Wildlife is scarce compared with East African parks and sightings need patience. Access needs a vehicle and rangers arranged in advance.

Nearby

Muyinga is northwest, and Cankuzo is south.