Ruvubu National Park
Ruvubu National Park is the largest and most remote national park in Burundi, offering visitors a chance to experience raw, untouched African wilderness. Located in the northeastern part of the country, this hidden gem is a haven for wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, and nature explorers seeking an authentic safari away from the crowds.
If you’re looking for what to see and do in Burundi, a trip to Ruvubu National Park should be at the top of your list.
🗺 Where Is Ruvubu National Park?
Ruvubu National Park stretches across Muyinga and Ruyigi Provinces, covering over 500 square kilometers along the Ruvubu River. It borders Tanzania and is part of the broader ecosystem of the East African Rift Valley.
📍 Location: ~250 km from Bujumbura
🧭 Best base: Gitega or Muyinga
🦓 What to See at Ruvubu National Park
Ruvubu is home to some of Burundi’s last populations of large wild animals. While it’s a lesser-known park compared to others in East Africa, it offers raw, unspoiled nature and is a paradise for eco-tourists.
🐘 Wildlife in Ruvubu:
- Hippopotamuses
- Buffaloes
- Warthogs
- Nile crocodiles
- Antelopes (roan, duiker)
- Olive baboons and vervet monkeys
- Civets and bush pigs
🐦 Birdwatching:
With over 200 species of birds, Ruvubu is a top destination for birdwatchers.
- African fish eagle
- Great egret
- Kingfishers
- Hornbills
- Sunbirds and weavers
🚶🏾♂️ Activities to Do in Ruvubu National Park
- 🥾 Guided Walking Safaris – Walk along the Ruvubu River with a local guide and spot animals up close.
- 🚙 Game Drives – Explore the park’s trails in a 4×4 with your guide and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
- 🪶 Birdwatching Tours – Early morning and late afternoon are best for bird sightings.
- 🌿 Nature Photography – Capture the park’s beauty with professional or mobile photography.
- 🏕 Camping (upon request) – With proper permits, enjoy an immersive night in the wild.
📅 Best Time to Visit Ruvubu National Park
The dry seasons are the best time for wildlife viewing and safe hiking:
- June to September – Cooler, dry months (best for game drives)
- December to February – Short dry season with green landscapes and active birdlife
🧳 What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Insect repellent (for tsetse flies & mosquitoes)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Binoculars and camera
- Water bottle and snacks
- Light jacket (mornings can be cool)
📌 Why Visit Ruvubu National Park?
- ✔️ Authentic and uncrowded wildlife experience
- ✔️ Ideal for eco-tourism and birdwatching
- ✔️ Perfect for nature photography and walking safaris
- ✔️ Part of Burundi’s last remaining big wilderness
- ✔️ Can be included in multi-day northern Burundi tours
🚌 Sample Itinerary – 2-Day Ruvubu Safari
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Depart from Gitega or Bujumbura – Arrive at Ruvubu Lodge – Afternoon walking safari |
| 2 | Early morning birdwatching and game drive – Lunch – Return to Gitega or onward to Muyinga |
🧭 Combine With Nearby Attractions
- Gitega National Museum – Learn about Burundi’s history
- Karera Waterfalls – Refreshing natural wonder in Rutana
- Muyinga Market – A glimpse into Burundian local life
- Ruvubu River Crossing to Tanzania (advanced tour option)
📞 Book Your Ruvubu National Park Safari Today!
At M Travel and Tours Burundi, we offer private and group tours to Ruvubu National Park with experienced guides, 4×4 vehicles, and optional birdwatching experts. We’ll handle all logistics so you can enjoy a stress-free safari.