Tourism in Burundi

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Central Africa

Tourist attractions

Kibira National Park

Region: Muramvya Province, northwest

Nature

Vast African montane rainforest where chimpanzees and over 200 bird species can be observed.

Rusizi River Falls (Karola Falls)

Region: Rumonge Province

Nature

60m-class waterfall deep in the jungle. Hiking course and picnic spots are popular.

Gitega National Museum

Region: Gitega

Cultural Heritage

The country's largest museum housing 2,000 items including royal drums, crowns, and pottery from the kingdom era.

Lake Tanganyika Beach

Region: Near Bujumbura

Nature

Clear lake water and white sand beach. Known for beautiful sunsets.

Bujumbura Cathedral

Region: Central Bujumbura

Modern Architecture

White Catholic cathedral built in the 1930s. Magnificent interior stained glass.

Gashaka Hot Springs

Region: Rutana Province

Nature

Carbonated spring beloved by locals as 'healing waters'. Riverside open-air bathing available.

Saga Coast Reserve

Region: Southwest of Bujumbura

Nature

Lakeside wetland inhabited by hippos and crocodiles, a hotspot for bird watching.

Mwilo Hill Royal Tombs

Region: Mwilo

Cultural Heritage

19th-century royal tombs and ritual sites. Traditional dance performances are also held.

Rumero Hot Spring Monkey Sanctuary

Region: Bururi Province

Nature

Home to endangered golden monkeys. Can be observed in hot spring steam.

Imbo Plain Rice Landscape

Region: Bubanza Province, west

Rural Landscape

Green mosaic created by terraced rice paddies and Kanasi Channel irrigation network.

Suggested itineraries

Burundi Culture and Nature Highlights

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Gitega Museum, Mwilo Royal Tombs, Kibira National Park, Lake Tanganyika Cruise

Visit historical sites from the capital Gitega, chimpanzee trekking in the northwest rainforest. Final day enjoy lakeside resort in Bujumbura.

Weekend Bujumbura City Break

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Bujumbura Cathedral, Central Market, Saga Beach BBQ, Lake Tanganyika Sunset

Weekend plan for short-term business travelers, combining city sightseeing and beach relaxation.

Travel tips

  • Cash-based society, so prepare small US dollar bills and local currency.
  • Central highlands can be cold at night, so carry a light jacket.
  • Always ask permission before taking photos.
  • Rainy season (November-April) roads get muddy, so four-wheel drive is safer.
  • Use boiled or bottled water for tap water.
  • Visa available at airport, but advance online application reduces waiting time.
  • Prior permission required for outdoor drone use.
  • Avoid walking alone at night, use reliable taxis.
  • Local SIM available at Bujumbura airport, major carriers are Econet and Lumitel.
  • Be careful about purchasing ivory or turtle shell souvenirs as they violate the Washington Convention.

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