CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Explore Rusizi National Park & Bujumbura City Tour

Discover the Wild Heart of Burundi: Rusizi National Park Safari & Bujumbura City Tour

If you’re looking to experience East Africa off the beaten path, Rusizi National Park in Burundi is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Nestled just outside Bujumbura, along the banks of the meandering Rusizi River, this compact but ecologically rich park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. With Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, you can enjoy a seamless and immersive journey into one of Burundi’s best-kept secrets—and extend your adventure with a vibrant Bujumbura city tour.

Why Visit Rusizi National Park?

Rusizi National Park offers a peaceful, uncrowded safari experience unlike any other in East Africa. It’s home to a unique combination of wetlands, savannahs, and riverine forests, which support a variety of animal species.

Highlights of the Rusizi Safari:

  • Hippos and Nile Crocodiles: Cruise along the Rusizi River and observe pods of hippos lazing in the water and crocodiles sunbathing on the banks.
  • Rare Birds: The park is a paradise for bird lovers, hosting over 200 species including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and the elusive shoebill stork.
  • Sitatunga Antelope: This shy, semi-aquatic antelope is a rare find and a key attraction of the park.
  • Guided Game Drives & Boat Safaris: Enjoy guided experiences that let you appreciate the park’s biodiversity up close.

The park’s proximity to Bujumbura makes it ideal for a half-day or full-day safari, especially for travelers looking to combine nature with culture.

Extend Your Experience: Bujumbura City Tour

No visit to Burundi is complete without exploring Bujumbura, the country’s cultural and historical capital. Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers an expertly guided Bujumbura city extension that perfectly complements your Rusizi safari.

Top Attractions in Bujumbura:

  • Livingstone-Stanley Monument: Visit the iconic site where the famous explorers are believed to have met in 1871.
  • Lake Tanganyika Beach: Relax by one of the world’s longest and deepest freshwater lakes—perfect for a sunset drink.
  • Central Market & Crafts Village: Experience the local hustle, shop for handmade crafts, and taste authentic Burundian street food.
  • Musee Vivant (Living Museum): A cultural and natural history museum offering insights into Burundian traditions, music, and native species.

Plan Your Trip with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours
At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we tailor every trip to offer both comfort and adventure. Our Rusizi and Bujumbura package includes:

  • Airport transfers
  • Park entry and guide fees
  • Custom safari vehicles and experienced local guides
  • Optional add-ons to explore more of Burundi or connect to regional gorilla trekking tours in Rwanda or Uganda

Get in touch today to book your Burundi safari experience, and discover a side of Africa few travelers have seen—wild, warm, and wonderfully authentic.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Explore Uganda’s Wildlife at UWEC Before Your Gorilla Trekking Tour

A Perfect Prelude to Your Safari 2 Gorilla Tour Adventure

If you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime safari in Uganda with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) in Entebbe is the perfect starting point for your adventure. Often called a “zoo with a difference,” UWEC offers visitors a close-up look at Uganda’s rich biodiversity—setting the tone for the thrilling wildlife encounters ahead in the wild.

What is the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre?

Located on the serene shores of Lake Victoria, UWEC is more than just a zoo. It is a conservation education facility that rehabilitates injured, rescued, or orphaned animals and educates visitors about Uganda’s native species. Here, you can encounter lions, leopards, chimpanzees, shoebill storks, and more in environments designed to mimic their natural habitats.

Why Include UWEC in Your Safari Itinerary?

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we recommend visiting UWEC for a variety of reasons:

1. Educational Introduction to Uganda’s Wildlife

Before you head into the wilderness, UWEC provides context and background on the species you’ll likely encounter on your safari—especially the famous mountain gorillas.

2. Up-close Encounters in a Safe Setting

For those who may not venture deep into the jungle, UWEC offers a chance to see rescued primates, rhinos, and big cats up close, with guided tours led by passionate conservationists.

3. Chimpanzee Close-Up Experience

Book the behind-the-scenes “Chimpanzee Close-Up” for a rare chance to feed and interact with chimpanzees under expert supervision—an unforgettable add-on to your gorilla trekking journey.

4. Family-Friendly and Accessible

Not every traveler is ready for multi-hour treks in Bwindi or Mgahinga. UWEC is perfect for families, seniors, or those with time constraints, offering rich wildlife encounters in just a few hours.

Pairing UWEC with Gorilla Trekking

Your gorilla trekking tour with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours will take you deep into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you’ll hike through misty jungles to observe endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. By visiting UWEC first, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the conservation efforts protecting these gentle giants.

How to Include UWEC in Your Safari 2 Gorilla Tours Package

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers flexible packages that can include a stop at UWEC—either upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or as a relaxing final stop before departure. Our team will customize your itinerary to maximize your experience while supporting Uganda’s conservation efforts.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Whether you’re here for the majestic mountain gorillas, Uganda’s “Big Five,” or its incredible birdlife, let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours craft the perfect experience for you—from UWEC to the heart of the rainforest.

Click here to contact us today to book your Uganda safari adventure with a meaningful start at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre.