Burundi
A landlocked country in Central Africa, Burundi shares it south-western border with Lake Tanganyika. Majestic mountains, tranquil lakes and lush island beaches are just a part of the beauty this wonderful country. The people are warm, welcoming and are eager to very helping. A young nation with a rich culture, it is defined by ancient traditions and aims to continue to do so. Music, dance and handicrafts are an essential feature of their ethnicity.
Travelers to Burundi can immerse themselves in a world of natural beauty and cultural discovery. Whether it’s exploring the ancient forests of Kibira National Park, trekking to the magnificent Karera Falls, or engaging with the captivating traditions of the Burundian people, this country offers a unique and authentic African experience.
Known for its thriving tea and coffee plantations, vibrant music and dance traditions, and fascinating wildlife, Burundi is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From adventure seekers to cultural enthusiasts, the country has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the true essence of East Africa.
Discover Burundi with us, and embark on a journey where history, nature, and culture intertwine to create unforgettable memories.
Burundi is a small country within East Africa with beautiful tourist attractions ranging from the landscapes, mountains, tropical forests, huge lakes, plateau, rich African culture, wildlife and primates viewing that you shouldn’t miss out while on an African tour. Our Nyumbu Beyond Journeys in Burundi can be arranged any time of the year for travellers as the country is open to tourism all year round, most Burundi tours and safaris are more preferred on the private arrangement as group tours are not popular in the country with few people travelling there right now compared to its East African neighbours, Burundi borders of Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania ad Zambia.
Burundi’s capital, social Bujumbura lies at the north-eastern end of Lake Tanganyika the old section of the city comprises buildings from the German and Belgian colonial periods, as well as a central market filled with hundreds of vendors’ booths. The country’s political city, Gitega, is also its cultural hub, containing the national museum and several schools. Gitega lies near the southernmost source of the Nile River and a spectacular waterfall, Chutes de la Akagera.
With its bursting wildlife and traditional culture amongst some incredibly lush primeval forests and protected national parks, such as Rusizi. Apart from the site where Livingstone met Stanley, Burundi holidays & Burundi tours open up a land that’s awash with lakes, waterfalls and tea plantations as well as sunsets like you would not
Each region of Burundi has its own unique highlights and attractions, from stunning natural landscapes to historical and cultural sites. Travelers can choose to explore one or more regions depending on their interests and time available.
Burundi is a small and lesser-known country in East Africa, but it has plenty to offer visitors.
Our travel experts have curated the best things to do when visiting Burundi on our unique hand-crafted journeys.
Visit Lake Tanganyika
This is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the world and is located on the border between Burundi and Tanzania. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and boat tours on the lake.
Explore national parks: Burundi has several national parks, including the Kibira National Park, the Rusizi National Park, and the Ruvubu National Park. These parks offer opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including primates, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.
Visit historical and cultural sites:
Burundi has a rich history and culture, and visitors can explore sites such as the Gitega Museum, the Burundi National Museum, and the Murambi Sacred Forest.
Go hiking:
Burundi is known for its scenic landscape of hills and mountains, making it a great destination for hiking. The Kibira National Park and the Karera Waterfall are popular hiking destinations.
Attend traditional festivals:
Burundi has several traditional festivals throughout the year, including the Royal Drum Festival, which showcases traditional drumming and dancing.
Visit the Livingstone-Stanley Monument:
This monument marks the spot where explorer Henry Stanley met Dr. David Livingstone on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in 1871.
Relax on the beach:
Burundi has several beaches along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, including Saga Beach, which is a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing.
Try local cuisine:
Burundi has a unique cuisine influenced by its African and French heritage. Local dishes to try include brochettes (meat skewers), matoke (steamed plantains), and isombe (cassava leaves with beans).
Attend a cultural performance:
Burundi has a vibrant cultural scene, and visitors can attend traditional dance and music performances, such as the Intore dance, which is performed by the Burundian Royal Court.
These are just a few of the many things to do when visiting Burundi. The country has a lot to offer visitors, from its stunning natural beauty to its rich history and culture.
Enjoy nature. National parks in Burundi are small and don’t have the gorillas and lions of their neighbours, but the landscape is lusciously green and there are magnificent wetland areas. One of Burundi’s best sights is the Chutes de la Karera – a six-branched, three-level series of five fantastic waterfalls, where the main drop is 80m high. Then there’s the Nyakazu Fault – also known as the Germans’ Gorge – a long, rocky tract filled with forest, with fantastic views over the Tanzanian plain from its top.
Visit Waterfalls
National parks in Burundi are small and don’t have the gorillas and lions of their neighbours, but the landscape is lusciously green and there are magnificent wetland areas. One of Burundi’s best sights is the Chutes de la Karera – a six-branched, three-level series of five fantastic waterfalls, where the main drop is 80m high. Then there’s the Nyakazu Fault – also known as the Germans’ Gorge – a long, rocky tract filled with forest, with fantastic views over the Tanzanian plain from its top.
Shop traditional crafts
Burundi’s basketry art form is threatened by the increasing use of plastic containers, but it’s representative of Burundi’s rich craft culture. To make the lidded baskets, women gather long strands of sweetgrass together, and wrap them tight in thin strips of colourful fibre that come from unravelled grain sacks. These form bonded ropes of different colours that can be coiled to make baskets and neat matching lids. Stop at craft shops in Bujumbura to pick yours out.
Go with a guide
who can help you interpret the country’s culture, much of which exists in oral tradition. In Bujumbura you could go on a tour led by local women to find out how people really live in different suburbs of the city.
Consider giving back
Burundi can be a country that is hard to visit without wanting to offer ongoing support. There is mass unemployment, widespread malnutrition, and climate change is making both drought and flooding more common, threatening the country’s already terrible food security. Some of our partners have set up charitable arms so that they can directly support Burundi; they can help you direct your support, too
Burundi, located in East Africa, offers travelers a blend of lush landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant wildlife. Whether you’re visiting for trekking, cultural experiences, or simply to enjoy the beauty of the country, choosing the right time for your trip is crucial to fully appreciate what Burundi has to offer. This guide outlines the best times to visit based on weather patterns, activities, and the ideal months for various experiences.
Best travel Seasons in Burundi
Burundi experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season, both of which significantly influence travel conditions. These seasons alternate throughout the year and determine the best times for certain activities such as wildlife viewing and trekking.
Dry Season: June to September & December to January
The dry season is considered the best time to visit Burundi for most activities, offering more predictable weather and ideal conditions for outdoor exploration.
June to September: This period marks the longer dry season in Burundi. During these months, you can expect clear skies, moderate temperatures, and minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for hiking, wildlife viewing, and cultural visits. The temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), ensuring a comfortable climate for exploration.
December to January: The shorter dry season, spanning about two months, is another great window for travel. While slightly warmer than the June to September period, this season is also ideal for trekking and visiting national parks, with manageable temperatures and reduced humidity.
Our most Highlights of the Dry Season:
Hiking and Trekking: The dry season offers clearer trails and better visibility, making it ideal for those interested in trekking through national parks such as Kibira National Park, where chimpanzee trekking is a major attraction.
Wildlife Viewing: Wildlife congregates around water sources, making animals easier to spot. This is particularly relevant for visits to parks like Ruvubu National Park.
Cultural Experiences: The drier weather makes visiting rural communities and exploring cultural heritage sites, such as Gitega National Museum or the Royal Drums of Gishora, more enjoyable.
- Rainy Season: February to May & October to November
Burundi’s rainy season sees more significant rainfall, especially from February to May. While not the best time for certain outdoor activities, the landscape becomes exceptionally green, and for those who enjoy solitude and bird-watching, this can still be a rewarding time to visit.
February to May: This period is the primary rainy season, where the country experiences the heaviest rains. Roads, particularly in rural areas, can become challenging to navigate due to mud, and trekking trails are often slippery. However, birdwatchers will find this period attractive, as migratory birds flock to the region, and the landscapes turn lush and vibrant.
October to November: This is a shorter rainy season, with intermittent rain. Travel is still possible during this time, especially for those interested in seeing the full greenery of Burundi’s landscapes.
Our most Considerations for the Rainy Season:
Chimpanzee Trekking: While trails may be slippery, the rainy season can still offer good opportunities to see chimpanzees in Kibira National Park, as the rains draw them to lower altitudes.
Bird-Watching: The rainy season, particularly from October to May, is prime for bird-watching enthusiasts, as Burundi hosts a wide range of migratory and local bird species.
Best Time for Specific Activities
1.Wildlife Viewing:
The dry season (June to September and December to January) is ideal for spotting wildlife in parks like Ruvubu National Park, as animals tend to gather around limited water sources.
2.Chimpanzee Trekking:
The best time for chimpanzee trekking in Kibira National Park is during the dry season, particularly from June to September. Trails are clearer, and the lack of rain makes for a more comfortable trek. However, trekking is possible year-round, with the caveat that trails during the rainy season can be challenging.
3.Cultural Tourism:
Exploring Burundi’s rich culture, including visits to traditional sites like Gitega, the Royal Drums of Gishora, and local communities, is best during the dry seasons. The drier conditions make travel between regions easier and more enjoyable.
4.Bird Watching:
Bird watchers may prefer the rainy season (especially from October to November), when Burundi’s national parks are vibrant with migratory bird species.
Climate Overview by Region
Central Burundi: Home to Bujumbura, the capital city, and Lake Tanganyika, this area enjoys a relatively mild climate. The dry season is perfect for enjoying the lake’s beaches and taking boat rides.
Northern Burundi: Known for its mountainous landscapes and cooler climate, this region is great for hiking, particularly in Kibira National Park.
Eastern Burundi: Featuring more open savannah landscapes, the Ruvubu National Park offers better wildlife viewing during the dry season.
Best Time to Visit by Month
June to September: Best overall time for visiting, ideal for trekking, wildlife, and cultural tours.
December to January: Excellent for trekking and wildlife viewing, with slightly warmer temperatures than the mid-year dry season.
February to May: Rainy, best avoided for most outdoor activities, but good for bird-watching and enjoying the green landscapes.
October to November: A shorter rainy season, suitable for bird-watching, but not ideal for trekking or road trips.
For most travelers, the dry season from June to September and December to January is the best time to visit Burundi, offering optimal conditions for outdoor adventures, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences. The rainy seasons can still be a rewarding time for those interested in bird-watching and lush, green landscapes, though travelers should be prepared for more challenging conditions.
By planning your trip during these recommended times, you’ll be able to make the most of Burundi’s natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Most travellers who wish to experience the warm welcome of Burundi will have to apply for a Burundi visa, this information piece tells you everything you will need to know about visa requirements for visiting Burundi.
It is important that you familiarise yourself with these legal requirements of entry before your visit, since in most cases, you will have to obtain a Burundi visa prior to your travels.
Visa requirements are governed by the Burundi embassy or Diplomatic mission, located in the area you reside and can be found through visiting the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Burundi and may be subject to change without prior notice.
WHAT IS A VISA?
A visa is issued to international travellers visiting Burundi for a short stay on a temporary basis for tourism, business, study or medical reasons.
Visas are normally issued for a maximum 30 or 90 days, depending on your country of residence. A valid visa allows you to enter the country through a port of entry and stay in the country for the period specified in your visa.
Note that you are restricted to the activity or reason stated in your application, for example, if you applied for a visa for a holiday or family visit, you are not allowed to work in the country during your stay.
VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR VISITING BURUNDI
The Burundi tourist visa is issued for short-term purposes – up to 90 days maximum and you will need a passport that is still valid for at least six more months from the date of entry. It should also have at least two blank pages for stamps.
Visitors holding passports from countries that are classified as ‘exempt’ do not need to apply for a visa prior to arriving in Burundi. Instead, they are issued with a short-stay visa at the point of entry for a period of 90 days.
Burundi unfortunately does not issue e-visas yet and as of April 2015, the government of Burundi stopped issuing visas on arrival at the airport or other ports of entry. Therefore, it is necessary to obtain your visa for Burundi via the nearest Embassy of Burundi or at the nearest Diplomatic Mission.The time it takes to process a Burundi visa is 15 – 30 days with no rush processing available so it is important for you to apply for your visa well in advance.The duration of a Burundi visa can depend on the number of entries it allows and also on which country you are applying from, usually the tourist visa will allow a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for one month.A transit visa is not required for Burundi if you are in possession of a valid passport, an onward ticket and you do not leave the airports transit area.
COUNTRIES EXEMPTED AND COUNTRIES THAT NEED VISAS
All visitors to Burundi except those from the countries listed below, must have a visa to enter Burundi.
Nationals of the following countries may enter Burundi without a visa for stays of up to 90 day: The Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.Also, Holders of diplomatic passports of Turkey and diplomatic and service category passports of Brazil, China and Russia do not require a visa to enter Burundi.
Lastly holders of passports for public affairs of China do not require a visa to enter Burundi.
DIFFERENT KINDS OF VISAS
When applying for a Burundi visa, you need to know which one to apply for according to your reason for traveling to Burundi.
There are two types of visas available, the tourist visa which is reserved for tourist/vacation reasons and the business visa which is reserved for conducting business in Burundi. Both of these visas are issued for single entry or multiple entry which means you can enter Burundi once or unlimited times within the validity of your visa, depending on which one was issued.
There is also a transit visa available which needs to be obtained if you are travelling through Burundi but wish to spend a night or two before moving onto your next destination. The price and validity will depend on how long you wish to stay and from which consulate/diplomatic mission or country you are applying from.
HOW AND WHERE TO APPLY FOR VISAS WHEN VISITING BURUNDI
There is only one way to apply for a Burundi visa; you will have to make an appointment at your nearest Burundi Embassy or Diplomatic Mission.From there, depending on which country’s embassy or diplomatic mission you use, you might be required to give biometric scans of your fingerprints or facial features. This is a quick, discreet and non-intrusive process that captures a facial image with a digital camera and a 10-digit fingerprint scan with a digital finger scanner and is done at the embassy or diplomatic mission.
You will need to complete a Burundi visa application form, obtainable from the embassy/diplomatic mission offices.
Gather all the required documents, pay the visa fee and then submit the documents and application at the embassy/diplomatic mission. Some offices require you to submit the documents in person, whereas others also allow submissions through the mail.
DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR APPLICATION FOR VISA
When you apply for a Burundi visa, you need the following documents to support your application: (Note that the exact required documents depend on the purpose of your travel as well as the embassy or consulate in which you apply).
Two copies of the application form
Two passport-size pictures of yourself on a preferably white background
Your passport, valid for at least six more months from the date of entry and with at least two blank pages
Two certified photocopies of the personal information page of your passport
A residence permit or other proof of legal residence if you are not a citizen of the country from which you are applying
Proof of a return or onward travel ticket
Proof of accommodation in Burundi, such as your hotel booking confirmations
A Letter of invitation from the hosting company if you are travelling for business purposes
Proof of payment of the visa fee
If you apply by mail, a self-addressed and prepaid envelope for the return of your passport and documents
COST OF A BURUNDI VISA
Fees for a Burundi visa may vary depending on the consulate/diplomatic mission and country in which you are applying from. You will have to check the exact cost with them first. However, the below is an example of the last known fees charged:
The cost and processing time of a single-entry visa, with maximum validity of up to a 90-day stay will be 90.00 USD and takes 15 to 30+ business days to obtain.
The cost and processing time of a multiple entry visa with maximum validity of up to 90-day stay will be 90.00 USD and takes 15 to 30+ business days to be processed.
The above visas have a validity period of one month from date issued.
VACCINES NEEDED WHEN VISITING BURUNDI
An international yellow fever vaccination certificate is a compulsory requirement for all travellers to Burundi, a yellow fever certificate is valid 10 days after the vaccination is administered, making it important to get the vaccination in time before leaving for Burundi. You may be refused entry if you leave it too late and arrive in Burundi within the 10-day waiting period.
Other vaccines recommended or required for Burundi, as recommend by the CDC and WHO include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
Unfortunately, Zika virus is a risk in Burundi, so pregnant women are highly advised not to travel to this country. This virus can cause severe birth defects and is transmitted through mosquito bites.
Burundi is a high-risk country for rabies, so a vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals during their stay.
Burundi is also known to have outbreaks of Malaria, so it is recommended that you take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria. Malaria can start out with normal flue like symptoms but then progress to a high fever, shaking chills that can range from moderate to severe, profuse sweating, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, muscle pain and convulsions. Like the Zika Virus, Malaria is transmitted through mosquito bites.
Ways to avoid getting mosquito bites during your visit:
Insect repellent is your best friend when it comes to avoiding mosquito bites, you can buy insect repellents from the local supermarkets and/or pharmacies and apply to any exposed areas of the skin. Those products, which include DEET, claim to be the most effective, but there are alternatives if you are allergic.
It is a good idea to apply insect repellent before leaving your hotel room/ lodge or chalet for the day.
It is recommended to apply frequently throughout the day and before bed in the evening to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Keep air circulating in your room, mosquitoes aren’t strong flyers (that’s why they are more active during the evening and in the mornings when there is little wind). Using fans is a good way to avoid getting bitten by a mosquito, as it makes it difficult for them to fly near you.
A little-known fact is that wearing light coloured clothing can prevent mosquito bites, they are more attracted to darker colours because of the contrasting that dark-coloured clothes provide against the horizon during dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
OTHER SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS WHEN VISITING BURUNDI VISITING BURUNDI WITH MINORS
If you are travelling to Burundi with a minor, please take note of the additional documents you will need per child:
There must be a completed visa application for each child and certified copy of their birth certificate.
If the child is only traveling with one parent, a letter of consent or affidavit from the other parent consenting to such travel is required.If the child is traveling alone then a letter of consent or affidavit from both parents consenting to such travel is required.
WHAT HAPPENS IF ONE OVERSTAYS ON A VISA IN BURUNDI
Foreign visitors who overstay on a visa are normally declared ‘undesirable persons’ and may incur a ban from Burundi for a period, which prevents them from applying for a visa and re-entering Burundi for a prescribed period of time.
You may also be charged a fine for each day that you overstay on your visa. There may even be legal action taken against you, it is highly recommended that you extend your visa well in advance.
Individuals who have been affected by the overstay visa regulations of a country can usually lodge a visa overstay appeal.
ENJOY A SAFE HOLIDAY IN BURUNDI WITH A REPUTABLE TOUR OPERATOR
Nyumbu Beyond Journeys is a leading DMC-tour operator in East Africa that offers an outstanding selection of tours & Safaris to Burundi. We have a close association with the most reputable ground operators in Burundi who make safety a priority.
Sustainable travel in Burundi has a positive impact on the environment, local communities, and the preservation of cultural heritage. By choosing eco-friendly and responsible tourism, you can contribute to the long-term sustainability of this beautiful African country.
Burundi offers a range of eco-friendly accommodations, including eco-lodges nestled in nature and community-based tourism initiatives. These sustainable accommodations prioritize sustainability and provide unique experiences for travelers while minimizing their environmental footprint.
To respectfully engage with local cultures in Burundi, it is important to learn about their customs, etiquette, and cultural practices. By observing and respecting these traditions, you can have a meaningful and respectful travel experience while supporting the local communities.
Burundi offers a wide range of eco-conscious activities that allow you to engage with nature and support local conservation efforts. From wildlife safaris to exploring national parks and eco-trekking, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with the natural beauty of Burundi in a sustainable way.
There are various sustainable initiatives and projects happening in Burundi that focus on environmental conservation, community development, and sustainable tourism practices. By supporting these initiatives, such as through volunteering or contributing to local organizations, you can help contribute to the long-term sustainability of the country.
When traveling to Burundi, it is important to practice responsible tourism. This includes minimizing waste, conserving water, supporting local businesses, and being mindful of wildlife. By following these tips, you can make a positive impact during your visit.