BURUNDI SAFARIS - BEST SAFARI TOURS & TRIPS IN BURUNDI
Burundi is emerging as a unique East Africa travel destination, offering a mix of wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, and scenic lake adventures. For travelers searching for off-the-beaten-path African tours, Burundi delivers authentic experiences without the crowds found in more commercial safari destinations.
Top Safari Destinations in Burundi
At Nturo Safaris, we design immersive and well-crafted Burundi safaris that showcase the very best of Burundi — from scenic lake shores and lush rainforests to vibrant cultural traditions and wildlife encounters. Burundi is one of East Africa’s most underrated safari destinations, offering authentic, uncrowded experiences perfect for travelers seeking something different from the typical safari circuit.
1. Ruvubu National Park
Described as the largest national park in Burundi, Ruvubu is known for its savannah landscapes, river ecosystems, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can expect to see antelope species, buffalo, primates, and abundant birdlife. Activities commonly include guided game drives, nature walks, birdwatching, and riverside exploration.
2. Kibira National Park
This montane rainforest park is highlighted for chimpanzee tracking and primate encounters. The forest is part of the Congo-Nile Divide and offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and exceptional birdwatching opportunities. It is presented as a key ecotourism destination in Burundi.
3. Bujumbura
The former capital city is described as the gateway to Burundi safaris. Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, it offers beaches, lively markets, cultural experiences, and city tours. It is often the starting and ending point for most itineraries.
4. Mount Heha
As the highest peak in the country, Mount Heha is promoted for hiking and panoramic scenic views. It appeals to adventure travelers seeking light trekking experiences.
5. Karera Falls
These scenic waterfalls are featured as a natural attraction ideal for photography, sightseeing, and nature walks.
6. Gishora Drum Sanctuary
A major cultural highlight, this site showcases Burundi’s famous royal drumming tradition. Visitors experience traditional performances and learn about the historical significance of drumming in Burundian society.
7. National Museum of Gitega
The museum is presented as a cultural and historical center where visitors can explore traditional artifacts, royal history, and local heritage collections.
8. Kigwena Natural Forest Reserve
This forest reserve is known for biodiversity, bird species, and small mammals. It is suitable for guided nature walks and eco-tourism activities.
9. Rusizi National Park
Located near Lake Tanganyika, Rusizi is known for wetlands, hippos, crocodiles, and boat cruises along the Rusizi River. It offers relaxed wildlife viewing compared to larger African safari parks.
Activities Offered on Burundi Safaris
The tours typically include:
Wildlife viewing and light game drives, Chimpanzee tracking in rainforest habitats, Boat cruises on rivers and Lake Tanganyika, Cultural visits and traditional drumming experiences, Hiking and mountain trekking, Birdwatching excursions, Beach relaxation along the lakeshore plus Historical landmark visits.
What to Expect on a Burundi Safari
Our Burundi safari packages include:
- Wildlife viewing and guided nature walks
- Chimpanzee and primate tracking experiences
- Boat cruises on Lake Tanganyika and Rusizi River
- Cultural tours and traditional drumming performances
- Hiking, birdwatching, and rainforest exploration
- Historical site visits and heritage tours
Whether you are planning a Burundi wildlife safari, a Lake Tanganyika beach holiday, or a cultural heritage tour, Nturo Safaris customizes each itinerary to match your travel style and budget.
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Best Time for a Safari in Burundi
The best time to visit Burundi is during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February. These months offer ideal conditions for wildlife viewing, hiking, photography, and road travel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Travel to Burundi
If you are arriving by air, most nationalities can apply online for an eVisa before travel. However, citizens of Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda can enter visa-free.
A 30-day multiple-entry visa typically costs USD 90. Applications require basic travel information, accommodation details, and a passport photo. Since the eVisa system is still relatively new, it is recommended to apply at least one month in advance at migration.gov.bi/Apply
For land border entry, regulations can sometimes be unclear. Travelers are advised to confirm requirements with the nearest Burundian Embassy well before departure.
Burundi has become significantly more stable in recent years, particularly following the peaceful presidential transition in 2020. While the country experienced political unrest in the past, security conditions have improved, and many travel advisories have been relaxed.
Most tourist areas are considered safe when basic travel precautions are followed. Remote border areas may occasionally experience instability, but organized tours typically avoid such regions.
Visitors are advised to respect local customs and avoid sensitive discussions about ethnicity or political history. Burundi is socially conservative, and modest behavior is appreciated.
The official currency is the Burundian Franc (BIF), commonly called Amafaranga. The exchange rate fluctuates but is roughly around 2,900 BIF to 1 USD (rates may vary). US Dollars and Euros are widely exchangeable, though smaller denomination notes may receive lower rates. Other foreign currencies can be difficult to exchange outside major cities.
The national language is Kirundi, spoken by nearly the entire population. It is closely related to Kinyarwanda spoken in neighbouring Rwanda. Burundi also recognizes French and English as official languages. French is widely spoken, particularly in government, education, and business settings. English is less commonly spoken but is gradually increasing in usage, especially among younger people in urban areas.
Card payments are accepted at some higher-end hotels and restaurants in Bujumbura, but cash remains the primary form of payment across the country. ATMs are limited and may not always accept international cards. Travelers are encouraged to carry sufficient USD or Euros and notify their bank before traveling.
Travel to Burundi requires standard travel health precautions:
- Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory.
- Malaria prevention is strongly advised.
- Recommended vaccines may include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and others (consult your doctor).
- Drink bottled or boiled water and eat properly cooked food.
Comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency evacuation coverage, is highly recommended, as advanced medical facilities are limited and mostly located in Bujumbura.
Burundi has a reasonably reliable mobile network, and local SIM cards are affordable. Wi-Fi is available in major hotels and cafes in cities like Bujumbura, although speeds can be slow. Internet-based apps such as WhatsApp are commonly used for international communication. Postal services are functional but slow.