Kibira National Park Voyage Tips and guide

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Kibira National Park (French: Parc national de Kibira) is a vital national park located in northwestern Burundi. Covering approximately 400 km² (150 sq mi) and spanning four provinces, it lies atop the mountains of the Congo-Nile Divide. The park extends from the provincial town of Muramvya to the Rwandan border, where it adjoins Nyungwe National Park.

• By road: Regular buses run from Bujumbura to towns near the park, such as Muramvya and Kayanza.

• Guided tours: It’s recommended to hire a local guide when exploring Kibira National Park. A guide can help you navigate the forest safely and provide valuable information about the park’s unique plants and wildlife. They can enhance your experience by sharing their knowledge about the ecosystem and helping you spot animals and birds you might otherwise miss.

• Montane rainforest: About 16% of Kibira National Park is covered by primary montane rainforest, which is the only one of its kind in Burundi. The forest is home to several dominant tree species, including Symphonia globulifera, Newtonia buchananii, and Albizia gummifera. This unique ecosystem is vital for the park’s biodiversity, providing habitat for various animals and plants.
• Wildlife: Kibira National Park is home to 98 species of mammals, including chimpanzees and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Additionally, the park boasts over 200 bird species, making it a rich habitat for wildlife enthusiasts. The diverse ecosystems support a variety of animals, providing excellent opportunities for observation and photography.
• Birdwatching: Kibira National Park is a premier destination for birdwatching in Burundi, featuring important species such as the great blue turaco, mountain buzzard, and black-and-white-casqued hornbill. It is recognized as the most significant site in the country for montane-forest birds, making it an ideal location for bird enthusiasts to explore and observe diverse avian life.