Burigi Chato National Park is one of Tanzania’s newer and largest national parks, combining several former game reserves (Burigi, Biharamulo, and Kimisi). It’s characterized by a unique landscape of rolling hills, vast grasslands, and a significant presence of lakes, offering a distinct safari experience.

It’s situated in northwestern Tanzania, bordering Lake Victoria to the east and close to the borders of Rwanda and Uganda to the west and north. This strategic location makes it part of a larger trans-boundary ecosystem.

Burigi Chato’s landscape is incredibly diverse:

• Numerous Freshwater Lakes: Including Lake Burigi (the third largest lake entirely within Tanzania), Lake Ngoma, Lake Kasinga/Nyarwambaire, and Lake Nyamalebe. These are major attractions for wildlife and activities.

• Rolling Hills and Valleys: Undulating terrain with rocky outcrops and escarpments.

• Extensive Open Grasslands: Typical African savanna.

• Miombo and Acacia Woodlands: Diverse forest types.

• Swamps and Floodplains: Particularly around the lakes and rivers.

• Kagera River: A significant river flowing near or through parts of the park.

The park experiences a tropical climate with two distinct rainy seasons: short rains from November to December and long rains from March to April. The dry season runs from June to September, characterized by warm days and cool nights.

Burigi Chato boasts a good diversity of wildlife, including both terrestrial and aquatic species:

• Large Herbivores: Elephants, buffalo (large herds), zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, topis, impala, common reedbuck, waterbuck, eland, bushbuck, roan antelope, and sable antelope.

• Predators: Lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, jackals, and servals are present. Cheetahs are also reported.

• Aquatic Species: Hippos and large Nile crocodiles are abundant in the lakes and rivers.

• Primates: Baboons and vervet monkeys.

• Rare Species: The elusive sitatunga (a semi-aquatic antelope) can be found in swampy areas, and there are reports of the critically endangered shoebill stork.

Absolutely! With over 400 recorded bird species, it’s an excellent birding destination. The diverse habitats (grasslands, woodlands, lakes, rivers) attract a wide array of species, including waterbirds, raptors, and many savanna and forest birds. The potential sighting of the shoebill stork is a major draw for avid birders.

While some promotional materials might mention chimpanzees, reliable wild populations are not a primary feature of tourist safaris here. Dedicated primate tracking for chimps is done in places like Gombe Stream or Mahale Mountains.

The dry season (June to October) is generally considered the best time for concentrated game viewing as animals gather around the permanent lakes and rivers. This period also offers more accessible roads.

• Game Drives: The primary way to explore the park’s vast terrestrial areas.

• Boat Safaris: On the large freshwater lakes (especially Lake Burigi), offering unique wildlife viewing from the water.

• Walking Safaris: Guided nature walks are offered in designated areas.

• Birdwatching: Dedicated birding excursions.

• Sport Fishing: On some lakes, particularly for tilapia and Nile perch (requires special permits).

• Camping Safaris: For those seeking a raw wilderness experience.

• Cultural Tours: Opportunities to visit local communities.

Accommodation options in Mkomazi are relatively limited and include a few comfortable tented camps and lodges inside or just outside the park boundaries, as well as basic public campsites.