Visit Ibanda-Kyerwa: Tanzania’s Hidden Border Park
Stand in one park and see three countries! Explore Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park, Tanzania’s wild, scenic borderland with Uganda and Rwanda.
Published:
June 26, 2025 at 6:36:17 AM
Modified:
July 14, 2025 at 2:50:32 AM
Did you know there’s a place in Africa where you can see Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania at the same time, just by standing in one spot? Welcome to Ibanda-Kyerwa National Park! A hidden gem in the northwestern corner of Tanzania, this park offers something truly rare: wildlife, culture, and geography all in one place.
🌍 What Makes This Park Special?
Ibanda-Kyerwa is the only national park in Tanzania that touches two other countries, Uganda and Rwanda. Imagine standing on a scenic point and watching daily life unfold in three different countries at once. Now that’s a view you won’t forget.
🕰️ A Quick Look at the History
Originally a game reserve in 1971, Ibanda-Kyerwa became a national park in July 2019, covering 294 square kilometers of unspoiled natural beauty.
✈️ How to Get There
By Air: Fly into Bukoba or Chato Airports. From there, small aircraft can take you to the Karagwe District or even land inside the park at a nearby airstrip.
By Road:
From Bukoba via Omurushaka (221 km)
From Biharamulo through Benako (327 km)
Or from Uganda via the Kikagati–Murongo border post, only 4 km from the Kifurusa Gate.
🌦️ When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Best months: July to September, and December to February
Rainy seasons: Short rains (October–November) and long rains (March–May). Choose the dry months for the best wildlife viewing and comfortable walking safaris!
🐘 What Will You See? Let’s Explore the Attractions
🦁 Wildlife Galore
The park is home to:
Buffaloes, Leopards, Hippopotamus, Roan Antelope
Topi, Eland, Waterbuck, ImpalaKeep your camera ready!
🌊 Kagera River
This famous river forms the natural border between Tanzania and Rwanda, and even reaches Uganda. It also divides two national parks: Ibanda-Kyerwa (Tanzania) and Akagera (Rwanda).
🌿 Beautiful Landscapes
From savannah woodlands to valleys and hills, the park’s terrain is diverse and stunning. Nature photographers and explorers will love this.
🐦 Birdwatching Heaven
Over 200 bird species have been recorded. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the colorful symphony of nature!
🚙 Fun Things to Do in the Park
🎯 Game Drive
Explore the park’s vast grasslands, Acacia trees, and river zones. Spot herds of animals and enjoy the thrill of wild Africa from your vehicle.
🚶 Walking Safari
Want to get up close? Go on a guided walking tour with an armed ranger. Feel the ground beneath your feet and experience the bush from a new angle.
⛺ Where to Stay?
Right now, you can enjoy public campsites, perfect for those who love the outdoors. More facilities are developing, so it’s a great time to visit before the crowds arrive.
💚 Why Your Visit Matters
By visiting, you're not just enjoying nature, you’re also supporting local communities. Learn about Tanzanian culture, meet friendly locals, and contribute to their livelihoods.
💸 Park Fees (Summary)
Category | Tanzanian (Tshs) | Expat/Resident (USD) | Foreigner (USD) |
Entry – Adult | 5,000 | 30 | 15 |
Entry – Age 5-15 | 2,000 | 10 | 5 |
Entry – Under 5 | Free | Free | Free |
Camping – Adult (Public) | 5,000 | 30 | 30 |
Walking Safari (1-4 hrs) | 5,000 | 20 | 20 |
Walking Safari (4+ hrs) | 10,000 | 25 | 25 |
Guide per group | 5,000 | 20 | 20 |
Filming | – | – | 250 per day |
🔔 Full tariff list available at the park office or brochure. Proof of ID required. Fees may exclude VAT.
📜 Park Rules (A Must-Know!)
Please help protect the park:
✅ Do
Use marked roads and trails
Keep the park clean
Respect animals and fellow visitors
Get an entry permit valid for 24 hours
❌ Don’t
Feed animals or make a loud noise
Bring pets or weapons
Leave the road during game drives
Pick plants or disturb the ecosystem
⏰ Park Hours: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm🚗 Speed Limit: Max 50 kph (25 kph for game viewing)
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