Immerse yourself in Burundi's rich tapestry of history, natural wonders, and warm hospitality. Whether
you're exploring ancient traditions at drum sanctuaries or relaxing by the shores of Lake Tanganyika,
Burundi promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of East Africa.
Beach Resorts:
Saga Beach, best visited from June to August.
Spa Resorts:
A few luxury hotels in Bujumbura offer spa
services, best enjoyed year-round.
Travel Adventure Locations
Mountain Locations:
Mount Heha for trekking
Seaside Locations:
Lake Tanganyika for water activities
Cultural Travel Locations:
Gishora Drum Sanctuary and Karera Waterfalls.
Ethnicity and Languages:
Burundi is predominantly Hutu and Tutsi, with Kirundi
and French as the official languages.
Average Weekly Budget for Accommodation:
Hostel: $70 - $100 per week
Hotel: $150 - $250 per week
(Depends on season, location and category)
Average Daily Budget for Food:
Street Food: $5 - $10
Restaurant: $20 - $30
(Depends on season, location and category)
Best Season to Visit:
Dry season (June to September) for trekking and safaris.
Brief Travel Information about Burundi
Drinks
1. **Urwagwa**: A traditional fermented beverage made from
bananas and sorghum or millet, known for its sweet and tangy
flavor.
2. **Ikivuguto**: Fermented milk similar to yogurt but with a thinner
consistency, often served as a refreshing drink.
3. **Urwine**: Locally brewed banana wine, varying in sweetness
and strength depending on the fermentation process.
4. **Umuragwa**: A warm beverage made from fermented sorghum
or millet, often enjoyed during cold evenings.
Ibihaza: A drink made from dried fish mixed with water,
consumed for its nutritional benefits and savory taste.
Umwenge: A festive drink made from fermented sorghum or
maize, usually served during celebrations and ceremonies.
Ubuki: A hot beverage made from sorghum or millet, similar to a
porridge, enjoyed particularly during breakfast.
Umushikirano: A drink made from fermented honey, often mixed
with water or served warm during special occasions.
Kanyanga: A locally distilled spirit, similar to moonshine, made
from fermented fruits or grains.
Amata: Fresh cow's milk, often served chilled or used in cooking
and as a base for other dairy beverages.
Foods
Ugali (Basi): A staple dish made from maize flour cooked to a
thick porridge consistency, often served with meat or vegetables.
Isombe: Mashed cassava leaves cooked with onions, tomatoes,
and sometimes peanuts, creating a flavorful and nutritious side
dish.
Brochettes: Skewers of grilled meat (usually goat or beef)
seasoned with spices and served with a side of salad or
vegetables.
Matoke: Plantains cooked in a savory sauce with vegetables and
sometimes meat, offering a hearty and comforting meal.
Sambaza: Small fried fish served whole, often accompanied by a
spicy sauce or eaten with rice.
Inyama y'inyege: Grilled tilapia fish, marinated with spices and
typically served with a side of ugali or rice.
Ibihaza: A dish made from dried fish cooked with beans, creating
a rich and flavorful stew.
Imvange: Mashed sweet potatoes mixed with beans, creating a
nutritious and filling dish.
Ibiharage: A dish of kidney beans cooked with spices and often
served with rice or as a side dish.
Igisafuliya: Green bananas cooked in a sauce made from
ground peanuts and served with vegetables or meat.
Burundi Cusine and Beverages
These foods and drinks are integral to Burundian cuisine, reflecting
a blend of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods that
define the country's culinary heritage.
Lake Tanganyika: Nestled in the Great Rift Valley, Lake
Tanganyika is the world's second-largest freshwater lake by volume
and depth, stretching over 670 kilometers in length. Its crystal-clear
waters teem with unique aquatic life, including endemic fish species
found nowhere else on Earth. The lake's shores are dotted with
traditional fishing villages where locals still practice age-old
techniques, adding to its cultural richness.
Rusizi National Park: Located in western Burundi along the
Rusizi River, this national park is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife
such as hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Its marshy
landscapes and riverine forests provide a vital habitat for these
animals, offering visitors a chance to explore its tranquil beauty
through boat safaris and guided nature walks.
Bujumbura (capital city): Situated on the northeastern shore of
Lake Tanganyika, Bujumbura is Burundi's largest city and its
bustling political and economic center. It blends a colonial past with
modern African urban life, featuring vibrant markets, historic
landmarks like the Independence Heroes Monument, and the
Livingstone-Stanley Monument, commemorating the explorers'
meeting.
Karera Waterfalls: Tucked away in Burundi's hilly countryside
near Rutana, the Karera Waterfalls cascade dramatically over lush
greenery, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for picnics and
nature walks. The surrounding area is rich in biodiversity, with
butterflies fluttering around and the soothing sound of water
echoing through the valley.
Kibira National Park: Covering a vast expanse of montane
rainforest in northwest Burundi, Kibira National Park is a haven for
biodiversity. It's home to rare primates like chimpanzees and
colobus monkeys, as well as numerous bird species. Its dense
foliage and misty ambiance create an otherworldly setting ideal for
adventurous hikes and wildlife enthusiasts.
Ruvubu National Park: East of the capital Bujumbura, Ruvubu
National Park boasts wide-open savannas and dense riverine
forests along the Ruvubu River. This park is renowned for its large
herds of elephants, zebras, and antelopes roaming freely in their
natural habitat. Guided safaris offer a glimpse into the untouched
wilderness and the opportunity to witness Africa's majestic wildlife
up close.
Gishora Drum Sanctuary: Celebrating Burundi's rich cultural
heritage, the Gishora Drum Sanctuary near Gitega is a sacred site
where traditional drumming ceremonies have been performed for
centuries. The royal drums, symbolizing the nation's unity and
history, are meticulously crafted and revered as cultural treasures.
Visitors can experience the rhythmic beats and immerse
themselves in the profound significance of Burundi's drumming
traditions.
Mount Heha: Standing as Burundi's highest peak at
approximately 2,670 meters, Mount Heha offers breathtaking views
of the surrounding landscapes, including Lake Tanganyika and the
lush valleys below. It's a challenging yet rewarding trek for outdoor
enthusiasts, with trails winding through montane forests filled with
endemic flora and fauna.
Source of the Nile: Located near Rutovu in southwestern
Burundi, the Source of the Nile marks the beginning of the mighty
Nile River, Africa's longest river. This sacred site holds cultural and
historical significance, with local beliefs and rituals tied to its
mystical waters. The serene surroundings and tranquil atmosphere
make it a place of reflection and wonder.
Saga Beach: Along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Saga Beach
offers a picturesque retreat with sandy shores and clear blue
waters. It's a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and
water sports, attracting both locals and tourists seeking relaxation
and recreation amidst stunning natural beauty.
Each of these destinations in Burundi offers a unique glimpse into
the country's natural wonders, cultural heritage, and vibrant
landscapes, making it a truly enriching experience for travelers.
Interesting Places to Visit Burundi
Nestled in the heart of East Africa, the Kingdom of Burundi
flourishes under the venerable rule of a revered Tutsi monarchy.
This monarchy is celebrated for its intricate cultural customs and
meticulously structured societal hierarchy, creating a tapestry of
tradition and respect that weaves through every aspect of
Burundian life.
The imprint of European colonization, first by Germany and
then by Belgium, has etched an indelible mark on Burundi's
historical landscape. This colonial legacy has profoundly influenced
its cultural dynamics, leaving behind a complex interplay of
influences that continue to shape the nation's identity and societal
interactions.
In the transformative year of 1962, Burundi emerged into the
light of independence, marking a pivotal milestone in its history.
This newfound sovereignty set the stage for an evolving political
landscape and a burgeoning national identity, propelling Burundi
toward a future shaped by its own hands.
The 1990s witnessed a harrowing chapter in Burundi's history, as
civil strife erupted from deep-seated ethnic divisions between the
Hutu and Tutsi communities. This period of intense conflict left an
indelible scar on the nation's psyche, underscoring the fragile
nature of peace in a land marked by historical tensions.
Today, Burundi navigates a complex socio-political terrain,
where ongoing tensions between its Hutu majority and Tutsi
minority underscore the intricate interplay of identity and
governance. This delicate balance reflects the nation's continuous
struggle to harmonize its diverse cultural and political landscape.
Following a tumultuous era, the early 2000s ushered in a period
of reconciliation for Burundi. Peace accords were brokered,
mending the nation's fractures and charting a unified course
towards stability and cohesion. This era of healing marked a
significant step towards a more harmonious future.
Renowned for its resounding drumming rituals, Burundi boasts
a vibrant cultural heritage that comes alive in its ceremonial
drumming traditions. These ancient rhythms, preserved at the
UNESCO-designated Gitega Drum Sanctuary, resonate deeply
within the national consciousness, symbolizing unity and cultural
pride.
Cultural kinship with neighboring Rwanda runs deep, shaping
societal norms and historical narratives in Burundi. This shared
heritage forges strong threads of tradition and mutual influence,
creating a rich tapestry of cultural interconnections between the two
nations.
Anchoring its economy, coffee production thrives as a
cornerstone of Burundi's agricultural sector. This vital industry not
only drives substantial export revenues but also sustains national
livelihoods, underscoring the importance of coffee in the economic
and social fabric of Burundi.
At the heart of Burundi's cultural narrative lies the UNESCO-listed
Gitega Drum Sanctuary, a revered site preserving ancient
rhythms and rituals. This hallowed ground serves as a powerful
symbol of the nation's collective memory and identity, celebrating a
rich heritage that continues to echo through the ages.
Interesting Historical Facts about Burundi
Situated in East Africa, Burundi is a landlocked country known
for its lush landscapes, diverse culture, and welcoming people.
Bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic
of Congo, Burundi boasts a mix of stunning natural beauty
and deep-rooted traditions.
Burundi