Ibanda Kyerwa National Park
The Unseen Treasure of Tanzania
Ibanda Kyerwa National Park
Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park, sprawling over 200 square kilometres in Tanzania’s Kagera region, was officially recognized as a national park in 2019. Its landscape is a stunning mix of rolling hills, broad valleys, and acacia-strewn savannahs, crisscrossed by seasonal rivers that feed the park’s lakes and swamps.
The park teems with wildlife. Along the banks of the vital Kagere River, you’re likely to see hippos and various antelope species, including Thomson gazelles, impalas, and elands. The area also supports large groups of roan antelopes and is a refuge for predators such as leopards and hyenas, adding excitement to any Tanzania Safari Tour.
Ibanda-Kyerwa is perfect for those who love to explore. You can venture on game drives across its expansive grasslands, which are dotted with lakes and hills, making it possible to spot buffalo herds, zebras, and even elusive leopards. For those who prefer a slower pace, walking safaris offer a chance to experience the park’s beauty on foot. Bird lovers will delight in the diverse birdlife, including exotic species like the African fish eagle. And for a true adventure, there are camping sites where you can spend the night under the stars, fully immersed in nature.
Best Time to Visit
The Best Time to Visit Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park is just after the short rains end. Aim for December through February, when the park is lush and wildlife sightings are at their best.
- December to February is ideal for clear paths and active wildlife.
- Expect heavy rains from March to May which can limit your exploration.
- October to November is the short rainy season, still good for unique sightings but might be wet.
So, you can plan your trip between December and February for a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Ibanda-Kyerwa, enjoying easy access and abundant wildlife.
How to get to Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park
Getting to Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park gives its own set of adventures, accessible by both air and road to suit different travel preferences.
- By Air You can fly into Chato or Bukoba airports. From there, take a light aircraft that will bring you either to Ithanda village or directly to an airstrip within the park. This option is quick and offers a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful landscapes below.
- By Road If you prefer a road trip, there are a couple of routes you can take:
- From Bukoba to Murongo, the journey covers 220 km and offers stunning views of the countryside.
- From Chato to Murongo, the route is slightly longer at 327 km, giving you more time to enjoy the scenic drive.
- Once in Murongo, it’s just a short 3.5 km drive to the park.
- For those landing directly at the airstrip in Ibanda, it’s a 110 km drive to Murongo.
Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park is a fantastic place for wildlife viewing and scenic beauty and features everything from African buffalos and hippos to leopards and a diverse range of bird species.
No matter how you choose to get there, the journey to Ibanda-Kyerwa is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting safari experience in Tanzania.
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