Burigi Chato National Park

Burigi Chato National Park is a protected area in Rwanda.

Burigi Chato National Park at a Glance

Location
Eastern Rwanda Savannah, Rwanda, East Africa
Coordinates
-2.297070, 31.239334
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
June to September (dry season) for gorilla trekking. December to February also good.

Weather & Climate in Burigi Chato National Park

The warmest temperatures in Burigi Chato National Park occur in October, averaging 22.9°C (up to 29.0°C). The coolest conditions are in April at 21.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 4.9mm. Average humidity: 56.4%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 21.8°C (rainfall: 58.0mm)
  • February: 22.4°C (rainfall: 52.8mm)
  • March: 22.4°C (rainfall: 66.4mm)
  • April: 21.7°C (rainfall: 102.1mm)
  • May: 22.3°C (rainfall: 40.8mm)
  • June: 22.3°C (rainfall: 4.9mm)
  • July: 22.4°C (rainfall: 4.9mm)
  • August: 22.5°C (rainfall: 20.4mm)
  • September: 22.5°C (rainfall: 42.9mm)
  • October: 22.9°C (rainfall: 62.0mm)
  • November: 21.9°C (rainfall: 101.3mm)
  • December: 21.9°C (rainfall: 62.5mm)

Best Time to Visit Burigi Chato National Park

The best months to visit Burigi Chato National Park are July, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 21.77°C, rainfall 58mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 74.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 22.43°C, rainfall 52.8mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 71.9%
  • March: Great, temperature 22.39°C, rainfall 66.4mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 72.5%
  • April: Good, temperature 21.72°C, rainfall 102.1mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 77.2%
  • May: Great, temperature 22.29°C, rainfall 40.8mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 69.6%
  • June: Great, temperature 22.33°C, rainfall 4.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 56.4%
  • July: Great, temperature 22.41°C, rainfall 4.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 50.4%
  • August: Great, temperature 22.53°C, rainfall 20.4mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 61%
  • September: Great, temperature 22.48°C, rainfall 42.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 68.4%
  • October: Great, temperature 22.9°C, rainfall 62mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 68.5%
  • November: Good, temperature 21.87°C, rainfall 101.3mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 74.8%
  • December: Great, temperature 21.92°C, rainfall 62.5mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 74%

Wildlife in Burigi Chato National Park

Home to 6 recorded species including 2 waterbirds, 1 iconic birds, 1 birds of prey, 1 antelope & gazelle, 1 primates.

Recommended Packing List for Burigi Chato National Park

Based on average temperature of 22.3°C, typical conditions, humidity 68%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 22°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Burigi Chato National Park

2 safari lodges available.

ultra-luxury

luxury

Similar Parks in Eastern Rwanda Savannah

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Rwanda

Travel advisory for Rwanda

Burigi Chato National Park FAQs

What makes Burigi Chato National Park a unique safari destination in Rwanda?

Burigi Chato stands out for its vast, untouched wilderness and exceptionally low visitor numbers, offering an unparalleled sense of solitude and an authentic off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Unlike more famous Rwandan parks, it provides a tranquil environment where you can truly connect with nature without the crowds, making it ideal for those seeking peace and exclusivity.

What type of wildlife can I expect to encounter in Burigi Chato National Park?

Burigi Chato National Park boasts diverse habitats, including savannah, wetlands, and forests, supporting a variety of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see elephants, buffalo, various antelope species like topi and impala, and a rich array of birdlife. While predator sightings such as lions and leopards are possible, the park offers a serene experience focusing on general game viewing and birdwatching.

What are the best times of year to visit Burigi Chato National Park for optimal wildlife viewing?

Given Burigi Chato's low visitor numbers, you can enjoy a more intimate safari experience even during peak seasons. However, the long dry season from June to September and the short dry season from December to February offer optimal wildlife viewing conditions as animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.

Are there any activities available in Burigi Chato National Park beyond traditional game drives?

Beyond traditional game drives, Burigi Chato's expansive landscapes and numerous lakes offer unique opportunities for boat safaris, providing a different perspective on the park's wildlife and abundant birdlife. Guided nature walks are also available, allowing for a deeper immersion into the park's flora and smaller creatures, often enhanced by the park's low visitor density.

What are the general cost considerations for a safari to Burigi Chato National Park?

While specific costs vary, a safari to Burigi Chato generally offers a more budget-friendly option compared to Rwanda's premier gorilla trekking destinations, making it an excellent value for a diverse wildlife experience. Expect to factor in park entry fees, accommodation, and transport, with options ranging from mid-range lodges to more adventurous camping experiences within or near the park.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Bradt Guide: Rwanda by Philip Briggs - The leading guide to Rwanda covering gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Akagera's Big Five safari, Nyungwe Forest chimps, and Kigali. Written by Africa's most prolific guidebook author.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.