4 Days Karera Waterfalls and Ruvubu National Park Tour

Welcome to an exclusive journey with Rwakabunga Safaris, presenting the luxurious 4 Days Karera Waterfalls and Ruvubu National Park Tour. This meticulously crafted itinerary is designed for the discerning tourist, offering a blend of exhilarating wildlife encounters, breathtaking natural beauty, and the utmost in comfort and personalised service. Prepare to immerse yourselves in the hidden gems of Burundi, from the cascading majesty of Karera Waterfalls to the untouched wilderness of Ruvubu National Park, all while indulging in premium accommodations and world-class hospitality. This tour promises an unforgettable, luxury-focused exploration of Burundi’s most captivating landscapes and heritage.

Day 1: Arrival in Bujumbura – Transfer to the Source of the Nile – Karera Waterfalls

Upon arrival at Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM) in Bujumbura, you will be warmly received by your private guide and transferred in a luxury safari vehicle to the highlands of Rutana Province. This exquisite day begins with a transfer south-east, navigating through stunning Burundian scenery, particularly the picturesque tea plantations that adorn the landscape. Our first significant stop is the celebrated Source of the Nile at Rutovu, where a VIP viewing point will be arranged for the tourists to appreciate the monument marking the southernmost source of the world’s longest river, followed by a brief, informative presentation on its geographical significance. The afternoon culminates in an exclusive visit to the magnificent Karera Waterfalls, a multi-tiered cascade where you will enjoy a guided descent to the base of the falls, with time allocated for a private, tranquil picnic experience by the waterside, far from the main tourist paths. Later, the luxurious journey continues to the town of Gitega for check-in at a high-end hotel, where you can unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Accommodation Options: Tropitel Gitega Hotel, Jerusalem Hotel Gitega, Matergo Hotel

Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Gishora Drum Sanctuary – Transfer to Ruvubu National Park

Day two introduces a deep dive into the heart of Burundian culture and history, beginning with a morning visit to the legendary Gishora Drum Sanctuary. Tourists will be treated to a private, captivating performance by the world-renowned Royal Drummers, a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, including an opportunity for an intimate Q&A session with the drummers, offering a profound insight into this ancient tradition and its ritual significance. Following a gourmet lunch in Gitega, the journey shifts dramatically as you are whisked away to the remote and pristine wilderness of Ruvubu National Park in the east of the country. The drive itself is an adventure, taking you through changing landscapes before arriving at your exclusive accommodation situated near the park gates. The late afternoon will involve a preliminary, private nature walk around the lodge area, providing an initial, gentle immersion into the sights and sounds of the Burundian bush before dinner.

Accommodation Options: Ruvubu Tented Lodge, Exclusive Mobile Tented Camp inside the park, Muyinga Hilltop Retreat.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Full Day Luxury Safari in Ruvubu National Park

This day is dedicated to a comprehensive, luxury safari experience within Burundi’s largest protected area, Ruvubu National Park. The day begins before dawn with a private, early morning game drive in a custom-fitted 4×4 safari vehicle, maximizing the opportunity to spot elusive predators and plains game such as buffalo, various antelopes, and the rich birdlife, with a specific focus on the riverside habitats. A full English breakfast is served as a private bush breakfast at a scenic vantage point overlooking the Ruvubu River. The midday is reserved for a relaxing period back at the lodge or a sophisticated birdwatching walk guided by a specialist ornithologist. The highlight of the late afternoon is a private boat safari on the Ruvubu River, offering a unique perspective on hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds as the setting sun casts a golden glow over the tranquil waters, concluding with sundowner cocktails before returning to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner.

Accommodation Options: Ruvubu Tented Lodge, Exclusive Mobile Tented Camp inside the park, Muyinga Hilltop Retreat.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Departure

The final day begins with a relaxed yet engaging activity, allowing tourists one last chance to connect with the Burundian wilderness. A choice is offered between a final, short, guided game drive or a late-morning nature walk with the lodge’s head naturalist, focusing on the smaller details of the ecosystem, such as medicinal plants, tracking techniques, and the park’s intricate insect life. After a final, lavish brunch at the lodge, you will begin the private transfer journey back to Bujumbura, a scenic drive that allows for reflection on the incredible diversity witnessed over the past few days. Upon reaching the capital, you will be taken on a brief panoramic city tour, perhaps including the iconic Independence Monument and the Explorers Memorial, before being seamlessly transferred to Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM) for your onward flight, carrying with you memories of an exclusive and enriching safari.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 4 Days Karera Waterfalls and Ruvubu National Park Tour.