Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Bururi Forest Nature Reserve, Burundi
Discover One of Africa’s Hidden Primate Adventures
No trip to East Africa is complete without the unforgettable experience of tracking wild chimpanzees in their natural rainforest habitat. In the heart of southwestern Burundi lies one of the region’s most underrated safari destinations — Bururi Forest Nature Reserve.
This lush and compact forest offers a rare opportunity to observe chimpanzees in an intimate, uncrowded environment, making it one of the best-value primate trekking destinations in Africa.
Chimpanzee Trekking Experience
Chimpanzee trekking in Bururi Forest Nature Reserve is a guided rainforest adventure that takes you deep into tropical vegetation in search of habituated chimp families.
What to Expect:
- Early morning briefing and departure (around 6:00 AM)
- 3–5 hour trek through dense rainforest
- Guided tracking with experienced rangers
- 1 hour observation of chimpanzee behavior in the wild
You may witness:
- Grooming and social bonding
- Feeding and climbing in the canopy
- Loud vocal calls echo through the forest

About Bururi Forest Nature Reserve
Located near the town of Bururi, this protected forest covers about 33 km² and sits along the Congo–Nile Divide.
Key highlights include:
- Over 90 tree species
- More than 80 bird species
- Rich primate biodiversity
- IUCN Category Ib wilderness protection
Despite its small size, it is one of Burundi’s richest ecological zones.
How to Get There
The reserve is accessible from Bujumbura:
- 1–2 hours drive to Bururi town
- Short transfer into the forest
- 4x4 vehicles recommended for comfort and terrain
Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking
The best trekking conditions are during the dry seasons:
- January – February (short dry season)
- May – August (long dry season)
Expect easier hiking trails and improved visibility during these months.
Accommodation Options
Stay comfortably near the forest or in the capital:
- Moonlight Hotel – Closest lodge to the reserve
- Tanganyika Blue Bay Resort – Lakeside luxury stay
- Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika – Premium lakefront hotel
- Goodlife Residence – Modern city accommodation
Why Choose Burundi for Chimpanzee Trekking?
- Lower permit costs compared to neighboring countries
- Fewer tourists and a more private experience
- High success rate in a compact forest area
- Authentic, untouched rainforest adventure
Burundi remains one of East Africa’s most exclusive and affordable primate destinations.
Book Your Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
Plan your adventure with professional guidance, permits, and logistics support.
Ultimate Wild Safaris
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
+256 705 087 906 / +256 760 282 342
We organize complete packages including transport, accommodation, and guided trekking experiences.
