9-Day Rwanda and Burundi Primates Big Five Culture

Kibira National Park- Burundi

1 Tours

Kibira National Park is one of the largest remaining montane rainforests in Burundi, located along the Congo–Nile Divide in the northwestern part of the country. The park borders Nyungwe Forest National Park in neighboring Rwanda, forming an important transboundary forest ecosystem. Covering about 400 km², the park consists of dense tropical rainforest, bamboo zones, and mountain ridges that supply water to two of Africa’s major river systems—the Nile and the Congo basins. Kibira is rich in biodiversity and is an important habitat for primates, forest birds, and unique plant species.

Things to Do in Kibira National Park

Primate Tracking.

Kibira is home to several primate species including chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, and vervet monkeys. Guided forest walks provide opportunities to observe these primates in their natural habitat.

Forest Hiking and Nature Walks.

The park offers scenic hiking trails through thick rainforest, bamboo forests, and mountain slopes. Guided hikes allow visitors to discover medicinal plants, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.

Birdwatching.

Kibira is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 200 bird species recorded. Birders may spot forest specialties such as the Great Blue Turaco, mountain buzzards, and various sunbirds.

Tea Plantation Visits.

Near the park are large tea plantations in the Teza and Rwegura areas. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks through the plantations and learn about tea cultivation while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Cultural Experiences.

Trips to nearby communities allow visitors to learn about local traditions and rural life, often combined with visits to cultural sites such as the famous Gishora Drum Sanctuary.

Scenic Photography

The mist-covered forest canopy, waterfalls, tea fields, and mountain landscapes make Kibira a beautiful destination for nature photography.

Best Time to Visit

The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are the best for hiking and wildlife viewing, as forest trails are easier to navigate.