Burundi Travel and Tourism Guide on Travel Notes

Travel Notes: Africa - Burundi Travel Notes - Updated 05 June, 2023.

Burundi Travel and Tourism on Travel Notes

Find Burundi Travel and Tourist Information with links to official travel and tourism websites and state resources for visitors to Burundi. Tweet

About Burundi

Burundi is an off-the-beaten-path destination in East Africa with an unpredictable security situation and possible health risks.

However, there are local tour guides and companies that do offer tours and excursions for those interested in exploring the country's natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Mapping Burundi

Map of Burundi

Burundi is a small landlocked country in east central Africa, closely tied to Rwanda.

Countries neighbouring Burundi: Rwanda, Tanzania and Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Burundi Maps and Travel Guides

Burundi Travel Guides - Burundi Maps.

Weather in Africa:
Local weather forecasts for destinations around Africa.

Burundi Overview

Burundi is a small, landlocked country located in East Africa.

The country is bordered by Tanzania to the east and south, Rwanda to the north, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west.

It has a population of approximately 12 million people and its capital is Bujumbura, which is located on the north-eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika.

Burundi Settlement

Burundi has a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times when various kingdoms and chiefdoms existed in the region.

Burundi was settled by Hutu farmers, in the early 14th century, who imposed their language and customs on the Twa.

Migrating Tutsis established themselves as feudal rulers over the Hutu in the 15th century, as they did in neighbouring Rwanda.

Colonization

Germany occupied Burundi, then called Urundi, in the 1880s; along with Ruanda.

Belgium were given a mandate over the Territory of Ruanda-Urundi after World War I, but did little to inject political stability into the region.

Burundi became an independent constitutional monarchy on July 1st, 1962, but the reign of the Mwami lasted less than four more years.

Economy

The country's economy is primarily agricultural, with coffee and tea being the main cash crops. Other important industries include mining, manufacturing, and tourism.

Language

The official languages of Burundi are Kirundi and French.

Post Independence

Burundi has experienced political instability and conflict throughout much of its post-independence history.

The country has been plagued by ethnic tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi populations, which have led to several rounds of violence and political crises.

In 1993, a civil war broke out, which lasted until 2005 and claimed the lives of an estimated 300,000 people.

In recent years, Burundi has made some progress towards peace and stability, with a new constitution adopted in 2018 and peaceful elections held in 2020.

However, the country still faces significant challenges, including poverty, corruption, and the ongoing threat of violence and insecurity.

Visiting Burundi

Burundi is known for its beautiful scenery, including mountains, lakes, and waterfalls.

Popular Tourist Destinations in Burundi

Gitega National Museum

Gitega National Museum showcases the history and culture of Burundi, with exhibits on traditional music, dance, and art.

Kibira National Park

Kibira National Park is located in the north-west of Burundi and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including primates, elephants, and antelopes.

It's also a great place for bird watching.

Lake Tanganyika

This is the second deepest lake in the world and is shared by four countries, including Burundi.

Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, and boat rides on the lake.

Rusizi National Park

Located near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rusizi National Park is home to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Saga Beach

Saga Beach, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Travel to Burundi

When traveling to Burundi, it's important to note that the country has had a history of political instability and sporadic violence.

It is recommended to check the latest travel advisories from your home country and to exercise caution while traveling.

It is also recommended to get necessary vaccinations before traveling to Burundi and to take measures to prevent malaria.

Bujumbura

Although Burundi has no coastline as such, the south-west of the country, including the capital Bujumbura, does have access to Lake Tanganyika; the second deepest freshwater lake in the world.

Map of Bujumbura

Where to Stay in Bujumbura

Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika: Chaussee d'Uvira, Bujumbura, Burundi.

Set within a luxuriant park of five hectares, behind a wide beach, on the north side of Lake Tanganyika, the hotel was visited by Princess Caroline of Monaco in 2007.

Guests at the Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika loved the beach, the stunning pool and the largest hotel establishment in Burundi's great location.

Hotels in Bujumbura.

Gitega

Gitega, in the middle of Burundi, is the former royal residence.

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