Wildlife Experience in Burundi
Burundi may not be renowned for its spectacular wildlife but it offers a unique and serene experience immersed in nature, characterized by its breathtaking mountains and verdant countryside. The country’s climate is warm, with comfortable temperatures and two distinct wet seasons that keep the landscape lush and green throughout the year. Like its neighbor Rwanda, Burundi has implemented regular community clean-up initiatives every Saturday, resulting in a relatively clean environment that enhances its natural beauty. However, the interplay between human activity and nature has had a significant impact on the country’s wildlife.
The agricultural practices prevalent in Burundi have led to considerable deforestation. Many communities rely on subsistence farming, with small plots of land stretching up the steep hillsides. Unfortunately, due to economic constraints, most farmers cannot afford to leave their fields fallow or rotate crops, resulting in soil degradation and diminishing the land’s productivity. As soil quality worsens, more forested areas are cleared to create new farmland. Over the past four decades, coffee production—one of Burundi’s primary exports—has declined by two-thirds, primarily due to this environmental degradation. Today, only 10 percent of the country remains forested, a stark contrast to the once-abundant greenery.
Hippos in Rusizi National Park
One of the notable wildlife areas in Burundi is Rusizi National Park, a small reserve that encompasses the delta of the Rusizi River, where its muddy waters flow into Lake Tanganyika. This area is not only a beautiful sight but also a haven for various bird species, including herons and ibises, which flock to the dense papyrus wetlands. However, visitors often seek out the park’s larger inhabitants. The reserve was once famous for harboring Gustave, the legendary man-eating crocodile, though today, it is home to significant populations of Nile crocodiles and hippopotamuses.
Birdlife at Lake Rwihinda Nature Reserve
Further enriching Burundi’s wildlife experiences is Lake Rwihinda Nature Reserve, part of a series of lakes near the Rwandan border. This reserve is beloved by bird enthusiasts, once known as Lac aux Oiseaux, or Bird Lake. Despite some decline in flock sizes, the lake continues to attract a diverse array of avian life. Visitors can navigate through the greenish waters adorned with waterlily pads, encountering elegant white egrets, pelicans, and the striking black cormorants. The experience of gliding across the tranquil lake, surrounded by vibrant wildlife, offers a captivating glimpse into Burundi’s rich natural heritage.
Chimpanzees in Kibira National Park
For those looking to engage more closely with wildlife, Kibira National Park is a must-visit destination. This park is part of a sacred forest historically used by the kings of Burundi for hunting. It contains the only montane forest in the country, with a long strip of trees that eventually connects to Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda. Kibira is home to Burundi’s largest population of chimpanzees, along with other primates such as colobus monkeys and baboons. Additionally, the park is rich in biodiversity, hosting serval and African civet cats, as well as over 200 bird species, including the striking great blue turaco. The lush surroundings and the chance to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat make Kibira National Park a unique wildlife experience.
Safari in Ruvubu National Park
Ruvubu National Park, the largest park in Burundi, offers a diverse landscape of forests and grasslands, providing an ideal setting for walking safaris. Here, visitors can encounter a variety of wildlife, including Cape buffalo, antelope, crocodiles, and hippos, as well as predators like panthers and jackals. The park is also home to numerous baboons and boasts over 300 bird species. Occasionally, lions from neighboring Tanzania wander into Ruvubu, adding to the excitement of wildlife spotting. For those looking to take a break from walking, boat trips along the Ruvubu River provide an alternative way to explore the park while observing its abundance of water-loving birds, including pelicans, ibises, and the elegant grey crowned cranes.
