Burigi Chato National Park

Burigi Chato National Park: Tanzania’s Hidden Wilderness

Burigi Chato National Park, one of Tanzania’s newest and most expansive national parks, is a breathtaking wildlife sanctuary located in the northwestern part of the country. Covering approximately 4,707 square kilometers (1,817 square miles), it is the third-largest national park in Tanzania. Established in 2019, Burigi-Chato combines the former Burigi, Biharamulo, and Kimisi Game Reserves, creating a vast and unspoiled wilderness. The park borders Lake Victoria to the east and Rwanda to the west, offering stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a truly off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Burigi Chato National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including large mammals and diverse bird species. The park’s extensive woodlands, grasslands, and water sources create a perfect habitat for numerous animals, such as:

• Elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes
• Lions, leopards, and hyenas – Predators that roam the park in search of prey
• Hippos and crocodiles in the rivers and lakes
• Rare species such as sitatunga antelopes, roan antelopes, and topis

The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds, including the shoebill stork, fish eagles, and various water birds that thrive in the wetlands and near Lake Burigi.

Geography and Climate

Burigi-Chato National Park features a diverse landscape that includes:

• Savanna grasslands – Open plains that provide grazing for herbivores
• Woodlands and forests – Rich in biodiversity, supporting both predators and prey
• Rivers and wetlands – The Kagera River and Lake Burigi sustain the park’s wildlife
• Rolling hills and rocky outcrops – Offering panoramic views of the park and beyond

The park experiences a tropical climate, with a dry season from June to October, ideal for wildlife viewing, and a rainy season from November to May, which transforms the park into a lush green paradise.

Tourism and Activities

Burigi-Chato National Park is a new and less crowded safari destination, making it perfect for visitors seeking an authentic African wilderness experience. Popular activities include:

• Game drives – Exploring the park’s vast landscapes while spotting diverse wildlife
• Walking safaris – Guided nature walks for a more immersive experience in the bush
• Birdwatching – Spotting rare and migratory birds, especially near lakes and wetlands
• Boating and fishing – Unique water-based safaris on Lake Burigi
• Cultural tours – Visiting nearby communities to learn about local traditions and lifestyles

Conservation and Protection

As a newly established national park, Burigi-Chato is a key focus of Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) for conservation. Efforts are being made to:

• Combat poaching – Protecting endangered species from illegal hunting
• Restore ecosystems – Ensuring that the wildlife population thrives
• Promote eco-tourism – Encouraging sustainable tourism to support conservation efforts and local communities