Burigi-Chato National Park Attractions
Burigi-Chato National Park is one of the biggest and most recent protected areas in Tanzania, and it is ideal if you want to observe animals without having to fight your way through a throng. In its more than 4,700 square kilometers of protected territory, you may see miombo forests, open grasslands, valleys, and lakes. And it stretches all the way to the Rwandan border, not including the coastlines of Lake Victoria.
Burigi, Kimisi, and Bihalamuro were among the forest reserves that the government pooled in 2019 to create this exclusive park. Many adventurous people flock to the area to see its animals and pristine terrain. Activities in this buried treasure will be highlighted in this piece. Let’s have a look.
first, game drives
Game drives are the major attraction in Burigi Chato National Park. Various ecosystems teeming with animals will be passed by on this safari excursion. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot giraffes, waterbucks, roan antelopes, bushbucks, buffalo, zebras, and, of course, the elusive sitatunga as they wander the shores of Lake Burigi.
Predators like lions and leopards are still there, albeit they aren’t as common. Burigi Chato’s secluded setting ensures a personal experience, in contrast to well-known parks in the north.
2. Exploring Lake Burigi by boat
One fun and relaxing way to see the park’s aquatic ecosystems is on a boat safari or canoe ride on Lake Burigi. There are a lot of water birds to see, such as the endangered shoebill stork and the African fish eagle, as well as crocodiles and hippos in the Nile. Another perk of gliding down the coast is the spectacular view of nature you may take in.
Walks and hiking are the third activity.
The park’s varied flora, fauna, and koi ponds may be explored up close on guided nature walks and hikes. Birds, monkeys, warthogs, and giraffes are all on display. It is also interesting investigating the abundant flora species. There are several plants that have medical properties, and you will learn about them.
4. Watching birds
Birdwatching is another interesting activity at Burigi Chato National Park. Birdwatchers will find heaven in Burigi-Chato, home to over 300 different bird species. In addition to several species of weaver and kingfisher, notable sightings include the saddle-billed stork, Senegal lapwing, wattled crane, and papyrus gonolek. Wetlands and lakeshores are great places to go birding, particularly if you want to see uncommon or migrating birds.
5. Tour of photography.
This picturesque park is perfect for wildlife photography. The photographs will surely be cherished by everyone, regardless of their level of photographic expertise. A herd of elephants may serve as a backdrop for your wildlife, woodland, or even yourself shots. When taking pictures of wild animals, nothing beats getting up early in the morning when they’re most active.
6. Fisheries at Burigi Lake.
Lake Burigi is a popular fishing spot in the park. Nile perch, tilapia, and catfish are all fish that you may potentially catch. A speedboat cat-and-release maneuver would also work.
Cultural trip number seven.
Burigi maintains strong relationships with local people, particularly the Sukuma, Tanzania’s biggest ethnic group. Guided village tours allow you to participate in activities like cultural festivities. Cultural activities, arts, and dances will be presented to you. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to become involved in conservation efforts and community projects.
8. Outdoor recreation
Under the African sky, there’s a certain way to slumber. There are public campsites inside the park where you may pitch your tent. Hyenas’ haunting cries will lull you to sleep, and the morning will rouse you.
Where is Burigi-Chato National Park, and how do I get there?
The vastness and isolation of Burigi-Chato National Park are not stopping its expansion into Tanzania’s most populous urban areas and airports. Getting to Burigi Chato is best accomplished by flying. The park is approximately a five-hour drive from Chato Airport, which is serviced by scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Bukoba.
Can you tell me when Burigi-Chato National Park is at its most beautiful?
The dry season (June–October) is ideal, as it is for most parks. The paths are dry and easy to navigate, and the foliage is sparse, so you may enjoy unobstructed vistas at this time. Also, animals congregate around water sources to drink during this period.
Opt for the shorter dry season if you’re pressed for time during the longer one. The running time is January to the beginning of March. There is an amazing variety of birds, and the trails are easy to follow. Because of this, birdwatching is excellent. After a few November storms, the greenery remains evergreen, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the best images.
That is all.
Burigi-Chato National Park is the ideal place to go if you want to see a wide range of animals. Some parks also provide boat trips in addition to the more common game drives. As an added bonus, it’s a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of popular northern parks like Serengeti.
Seclusion and genuine connection with nature are highly valued at Focus East Africa Tours. Come with us, and we’ll show you this secret treasure. If you need help organizing your safari, our professional planners are here to help. Reach out to us.
