Unique Tourist Activities to Do in Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park
The Park was gazetted in July 2019, having been a Game Reserve that was first established in 1972. It is 200 sq km. The Park is located in the northwest of Tanzania, where it borders Rwanda to the west and shares a short boundary with Akagera National Park. The actual Park boundary is the Kagera River. To the north, the Park shares a boundary with Uganda, where again the actual boundary is the Kagera River. this stunning national park is characterized by open Acacia savannahs, with some of them medium grass are characteristic of this remote and beautiful corner of Tanzania, a line of rolling hills and valleys to the west and south border a central basin with low hills and plains dissected by seasonal rivers and with scattered lakes and swamps.
The park is endowed with various wild animals such as African Buffalo, Hippos, Leopards, Antelopes like reed buck and roan. For bird lovers this place, is a little birdwatching paradise. More than 200 species of birds can be seen here
Unique Tourist Activities to Do in Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park
Top of Form
Game Drive
A game drive in Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park is an exciting way to explore the vast landscape and spot various wildlife. Typically done in a 4×4 vehicle, you are guided by experienced rangers who know the best places to find animals. This stunning park is surrounded by open savannah grasslands, the scattered acacias, hills, Kagera river and basins a game drive inside the park is inspirational to many visitors as they can see animals like herds of buffalo, leopards, topi, eland, impala, waterbuck, reedbuck and Roan Antelope. The early morning or late afternoon is prime time for viewing, as animals are more active during these cooler parts of the day. Don’t wait, come and explore nature!
Walking Safari
Embarking on a walking safari in Ibanda-Kyerwa offers a unique chance to connect with nature up close. For the travelers, this activity allows you to learn and see nature in close proximity will enjoy walking in this beautiful park. This activity, which is normally accompanied by an armed ranger, will give an opportunity to see wildlife in a close encounter. Walking safaris typically cover shorter distances, so you can take your time to soak in the sights and sounds around you.
Night Game Drives
Night game drives in Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park provide a thrilling experience as you witness the park come alive after dark. Equipped with spotlights, guides lead you through the park in search of nocturnal animals like leopards, hyenas, and other wildlife that are rarely seen during the day. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as you hear the sounds of the night and catch glimpses of animals in their natural behaviors. This unique perspective gives you a chance to appreciate a different side of the park.
Picnicking
Picnicking in Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park is a delightful way to enjoy the stunning scenery while taking a break from your adventures. There are designated picnic spots within the park where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy a packed meal surrounded by nature. Listen to the sounds of wildlife in the background, and you might even spot some animals nearby. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax, chat with friends or family, and savor the breathtaking views. Just make sure to leave no trace behind and respect the park’s rules to help preserve this beautiful environment for future visitors.
Birding tour
Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park is one of the birdwatching paradises. the park is home to more than 200 species of birds can be seen here. The park is an important site for both resident and migratory bird species, and it’s particularly attractive to birdwatchers during the rainy season. The park has a variety of natural vegetation ranging from savannah woodlands, plains, hills, valleys and rivers, acting as the habitats for birdlife. During your birdwatching tour, you will have the chance to spot different bird such as African fish eagle, African olive pigeon, augur buzzard, bar-tailed trogon, black saw-wing, cinnamon–chested bee-eater, Egyptian goose, great creasted grebe and Hartlaub’s little grebe among others.
Camping
Camping at Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park allows you to immerse yourself fully in the wilderness experience. Visitors can set up tents in designated camping areas that provide basic facilities. This adventure lets you sleep under the stars while being surrounded by the sounds of nature. Imagine waking up to the calls of birds and the rustling of animals nearby! Campers can enjoy storytelling around the fire, meal prepping together, and sharing the excitement of the day’s wildlife encounters. It’s a fantastic way for families and friends to bond while enjoying the peace and beauty of the African landscape.
Best time to visit Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park
The park has two rainy seasons in a year with short rains from October to November and long rains from March to May. However, the best time to visit is from July to September and from December to February.
How to get to Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park
The park is accessible by road and air
Road: The Park can be reached by road from Bukoba to Murongo (220km) or from Chato to Murongo (327km) and also from Uganda via Murongo town, which is about 3.5km from the park.
Air: There are airports at Chato and Bukoba from which light aircraft can fly to Ithanda Village or an airstrip within the park.
Best accommodation facilities to Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park
Currently, there is a public camping sites where you can arrange your own camp. Camping can be arranged through the park authorities at National Park sites, and simple accommodations are available in the nearest town, Murongo, which is about 3 anda half km from the park boundary.
