Best places to visit in Burundi 2024

Do you want to go out on a journey that will never be forgotten? Are you prepared to discover Africa’s undiscovered beauties? Do you have an adventurous spirit and a desire for unusual experiences? If yes, let’s explore the fascinating nation of Burundi, a little but dynamic East African nation full of friendly locals, breathtaking scenery, and a rich cultural heritage.

In 2024, Burundi is set to become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. From the bustling markets of Bujumbura to the tranquil waters of Lake Tanganyika, from the sacred drum sanctuaries of Gishora to the lush greenery of Kibira National Park, Burundi offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to all types of travelers.

So, are you ready to discover the best places to visit in Burundi in 2024? Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or a thrill-seeker, there’s something for everyone in this charming country. Pack your bags, open your heart, and prepare yourself for an adventure that you’ll remember for a lifetime. Welcome to Burundi!

Best places to visit in Mauritius

Here are five places you might consider visiting in Burundi:

1. Karera Waterfalls:

Located near the town of Rutana, Karera Waterfalls is a stunning natural attraction surrounded by lush greenery. The falls offer a picturesque setting for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

2. Lake Tanganyika:

This is one of Africa’s Great Lakes and forms part of Burundi’s western border. Lake Tanganyika is known for its crystal-clear waters and is an excellent spot for water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips. The lakeside towns, such as Bujumbura, offer a mix of cultural experiences.

3. Rusizi National Park:

For wildlife enthusiasts, Rusizi National Park is a must-visit. Located near Bujumbura, the park is home to a variety of bird species, hippos, crocodiles, and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the park through guided tours and boat safaris.

4. Gitega National Museum:

Gitega, the second-largest city in Burundi, is home to the Gitega National Museum. This museum provides insight into Burundi’s history and culture, featuring exhibits on traditional crafts, artifacts, and the country’s rich heritage.

5. Kibira National Park:

For those interested in hiking and exploring diverse ecosystems, Kibira National Park is a beautiful destination. The park is characterized by its tropical rainforests and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Guided hikes allow visitors to appreciate the park’s biodiversity.

Top tourist attractions in Burundi

Here are the top tourist attractions in Burundi:

Lake Tanganyika
Rusizi National Park
Kibira National Park
Ruvubu National Park
Source of the Nile
Gitega National Museum
Livingstone-Stanley Monument
Saga Beach
Bururi Forest Nature Reserve
Chutes de la Kagera (Kagera Falls)
Mount Heha
Karera Waterfalls
Musée Vivant
Vyanda Forest Reserve
Chutes de la Karera (Karera Falls)
Regina Mundi Cathedral
Nyanza Lac
Gishora Drum Sanctuary
Mwaro Province
Kigwena Natural Forest
Chutes de la Ruvubu (Ruvubu Falls)
Kibimba Memorial Site
Muramvya Province
Rumonge Province
Ngozi Province
Kirundo Province
Makamba Province
Muyinga Province
Bujumbura Central Market
Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium

Best time of year to visit Burundi

The best time to visit Burundi is from June to August, as it is the driest and sunniest time of the year¹²³⁴⁵. However, it can sometimes be cool or even cold at night, with temperatures around 12 °C (54 °F) in Bujumbura and even below on the plateau,

Local cuisines in Burundi

Burundian cuisine is influenced by Belgian, French, Greek, Chinese, Indian, and Thai cuisines. Here are some traditional Burundian dishes:

Ubugali: A kind of firm maize dumpling or bread, similar to fufu, that is a staple dish eaten with many meals.
Renga Renga: A stew that resembles spinach stew, but has a stronger flavor.
Mukeke: A type of fish that can only be found in Lake Tanganyika.
Ibiharage: Red kidney beans stewed simply with onion and chilli.
Boko Boko Harees: Chicken cooked with bulgur wheat, onion and turmeric.
Ndizi: Sliced plantain fried in palm oil, making a delicious snack or side.
Ndagala: Small locally-caught fish eaten whole⁹.

The safety tips for traveling in Burundi

Here are some safety tips for traveling in Burundi:

Avoid walking, driving or taking public transportation after dark anywhere in the country, including in Bujumbura.
Keep valuables, travel documents, and cash in safe locations, such as in hotel safes. Keep separate and digital copies of important documents, including your passport.
Be wary of who you plan to meet and where, and inform colleagues or family members of your plans.
Bring a sufficient supply of over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
Avoid areas where there are large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations, and exercise caution in the vicinity of any such gatherings.
Use insect repellent. Only drink boiled or bottled water.
Health facilities are limited. If you’re ill or injured, you’ll need to be evacuated

Visa requirements for visiting Burundi

Citizens of Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda do not need a visa to enter and visit Burundi for up to three months. Everyone else can apply for a visa at the embassy/consulate of Burundi or can apply for a visa on arrival at the Bujumbura International Airport.

The general documents required for a Burundi visa include a valid passport, two completed and signed Burundi application forms, two passport-sized photographs, a flight itinerary, the yellow fever vaccination card, an accommodation proof document, a bank statement document, proof of your visa fee payment, and health insurance and medical certification.

Transportation options in Burundi

Transportation in Burundi is limited. Private bus companies operate buses on the route to Kigali, Uganda, Tanzania, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Lake Tanganyika is used for transport, with the major port on the lake being Bujumbura. Most freight is transported down waterways. Taxis are common in cities, especially in downtown Bujumbura.

Local customs and traditions in Burundi

Burundi is a patchwork of cultures influenced by local and tribal traditions, as well as surrounding East African communities. The culture of Burundi includes mainly songs, dances, stories, and legends. Arts and crafts such as statues, masks, baskets, and pottery are important hobbies, as well as drumming.

Recommended hotels in Burundi

Here are some recommended hotels in Burundi:

Bethel Hotel
La Perle Motel
Hotel Club Du Lac Tanganyika
Roca Golf Hotel

FAQs

What are the best times to visit Burundi?

Burundi’s dry season, from June to September, offers the most favorable weather for travel.

Are there any safety concerns for travelers in Burundi?

While Burundi is generally safe for tourists, it’s advisable to stay informed about local developments and exercise caution in crowded areas.

What currency is used in Burundi?

The official currency of Burundi is the Burundian franc (BIF).

Are English speakers common in Burundi?

French and Kirundi are the primary languages spoken in Burundi, but English is also understood in tourist areas.

Do I need a visa to visit Burundi?

Most visitors require a visa to enter Burundi. It’s recommended to check the visa requirements well in advance of your trip.

What are some must-try dishes in Burundi?

Burundi offers a variety of delicious dishes that reflect its cultural diversity and culinary heritage. Here are some must-try dishes in Burundi:

1. Ugali (or Igisafuliya):

Similar to other African countries, ugali is a staple food in Burundi. It’s made from maize flour (cornmeal) cooked with water to a thick porridge-like consistency. Ugali is often served as a side dish with various stews and sauces.

2. Isombe:

Isombe is a traditional dish made from cassava leaves cooked with peanuts, palm oil, and spices. Sometimes fish or meat is added for extra flavor. Isombe is rich, flavorful, and a popular choice among locals.

3. Brochettes:

Brochettes are skewered pieces of meat, usually goat or beef, marinated in spices and grilled over charcoal. They are a favorite street food and can be found in markets and roadside stalls throughout Burundi. Brochettes are often served with a side of fried plantains or french fries.

4. Matoke:

Matoke is a dish made from green bananas cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices. It can be served as a side dish or as the main course, often accompanied by meat or fish stew.

5. Sambaza:

Sambaza are small freshwater fish found in Lake Tanganyika. They are typically fried whole and served with a squeeze of lemon juice and a side of spicy sauce. Sambaza are a popular snack or appetizer in Burundi, especially in lakeside towns.

What languages are spoken in Burundi?

In Burundi, three languages have official recognition: French, English, and the indigenous language of Kirundi. However, despite French and English being the official languages of the country, there are only a few speakers of these languages living in Burundi. Kirundi is the language of the majority of the people of the nation. After Kirundi, Swahili is the second most spoken minority language in Burundi.

What wildlife can be seen in Kibira National Park?

Kibira National Park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. The park is known for its high density of chimpanzee gangs and is a popular destination for chimp trekking safaris. Other notable wildlife species found in the park include black and white colobus monkeys, forest elephants, duikers, and several species of antelopes. Over 200 species of birds have also been recorded in the park.

What is the culture like in Burundi

The culture of Burundi is based on local tradition and common influence with its neighbors. The Hutu and the Tutsi, the two distinct ethnic groups in Burundi, share the same culture, language, and land. Despite these cultures having coexisted in the area for centuries, they remain separate in terms of group identification.

Much of Burundi’s rich cultural heritage, most notably folk songs and dances, was intended to extol the virtues of kingship. Christianity is the main religion in the country, with two main groups: Catholic and Protestant, but there is also Islam and different types of animism.

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