Visiting Burundi is an exciting prospect for the adventurous traveler, but it requires thorough preparation and a good understanding of the local context. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure a safe, smooth, and rewarding journey to the Heart of Africa:
1. Visa Requirements & Entry:
- Check in Advance: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Burundi. Do NOT rely on visas on arrival unless explicitly confirmed by a Burundian embassy or consulate for your nationality.
- Application: Apply for your visa well in advance (at least 2-3 months) through the Burundian embassy in your home country or the nearest one. Requirements can change.
- Yellow Fever Certificate: A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry. You will be denied entry without it.
2. Safety & Security:
- Stay Informed: Burundi has experienced periods of political instability. While conditions have generally improved, it’s crucial to check your government’s latest travel advisories (e.g., US State Department, UK FCDO) immediately before and during your trip.
- Local Tour Operator: It is highly recommended to arrange your trip through a reputable local tour operator. They are best placed to navigate local conditions, ensure your safety, and provide informed guidance.
- Avoid Public Gatherings: Steer clear of any political demonstrations, rallies, or large public gatherings.
- Curfew/Night Travel: Be aware of any local curfews, and generally avoid travel outside urban areas after dark.
- Personal Safety: Practice standard precautions against petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching), especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying expensive valuables.
- Photography: Be cautious and respectful when taking photos, especially of people or government buildings. Always ask permission.
3. Health Precautions:
- Malaria: Burundi is a high-risk malaria zone.
- Take prescribed anti-malarial medication.
- Use insect repellent (DEET recommended).
- Sleep under mosquito nets (most accommodations provide them).
- Wear long sleeves and trousers, especially from dusk till dawn.
- Vaccinations: Beyond Yellow Fever, consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations for Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Rabies.
- Water Safety: Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled/purified. Avoid ice cubes and uncooked fruits/vegetables washed in untreated water.
- Food Safety: Be cautious with street food. Eat at reputable establishments.
- Medical Facilities: Medical facilities outside Bujumbura are very basic. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation to a higher-standard facility (e.g., Nairobi or Johannesburg). Carry a personal first-aid kit.
4. Money & Currency:
- Currency: Burundian Franc (BIF).
- Cash is King: While ATMs are available in Bujumbura, they can be unreliable. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside of major hotels in the capital. Plan to use cash for almost everything.
- USD: US Dollars (crisp, new bills from 2006 onwards) are widely accepted for larger payments (e.g., hotels, tour operators) and are easily exchanged at licensed forex bureaus in Bujumbura.
- Exchange Rates: Exchange rates are generally better at forex bureaus than at banks or hotels.
5. Language & Communication:
- Official Languages: Kirundi (national language) and French.
- Spoken Languages: French is widely spoken in urban areas and by educated individuals. Swahili is also spoken in some commercial centers, particularly near the Tanzanian and DRC borders. English is not widely spoken, so learning a few basic French phrases (hello, thank you, please, how much) will be incredibly helpful.
- SIM Cards: Local SIM cards (e.g., Lumitel, Econet) are readily available in Bujumbura. You’ll need your passport to register.
6. Getting Around:
- 4×4 Vehicle with Driver: This is the most recommended and safest way for tourists to travel, especially outside Bujumbura where roads can be rough. Your tour operator will arrange this.
- Public Transport: Minibuses and buses connect major towns, but they are often crowded and can be slow.
- Motorbike Taxis: “Pele-pele” are common in cities for short distances, but are inherently risky.
7. Cultural Sensitivity & Etiquette:
- Dress Modestly: Especially outside Bujumbura, dress conservatively, particularly women. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Greetings: Always greet people warmly. “Bonjour” (French) or “Mwaramutse” (Kirundi – Good morning) are good starts.
- Respect Elders: Show respect to elders.
- Bargaining: Common in markets, but do so politely and with a smile.
- Patience: Things move at a different pace. Patience is a virtue.
8. What to Pack:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (long sleeves/trousers for sun and insect protection).
- Good walking shoes/hiking boots.
- Rain jacket/poncho.
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
- Small first-aid kit.
- Insect repellent.
- Power bank/portable charger.
- Copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance).
- Binoculars (for wildlife and birding).
9. Internet & Electricity:
- Internet: Available in major hotels in Bujumbura, but can be slow. Mobile data through local SIM cards is generally more reliable.
- Electricity: 220-240V. Type C, E, and F plugs are used. Power outages can occur, so consider bringing a headlamp or small flashlight.
Burundi offers a truly off-the-beaten-path African adventure. By being well-informed and prepared, you can fully embrace its unique beauty, rich culture, and the warmth of its people.