←Burundi travel guide
Bujumbura Mairie, Burundi
Bujumbura
A lakeside city where colonial streets meet the shores of Tanganyika
CultureNature & OutdoorsScenic Views
Bujumbura is Burundi's largest city and commercial heart, set on the northeastern shore of Lake Tanganyika against a backdrop of green hills. The city blends French colonial architecture with busy markets, riverside promenades, and a waterfront that opens onto one of the world's deepest lakes.
Check Burundi visa requirements →
Best time to visit
Dry season (June to September)
Region
Bujumbura Mairie
Main airport
Bujumbura (BJM)
Beyond the City
Day Trips from Bujumbura
Nature
Lake Tanganyika
One of the deepest and oldest lakes in the world, Lake Tanganyika edges Burundi's south-west with sandy beaches near Bujumbura. Calm mornings are perfect for swimming and fresh-fish lunches by the shore.
Nature
Kibira National Park
This mountain rainforest in the north-west shelters chimpanzees, monkeys, and abundant birdlife along the Congo-Nile divide. Guided forest walks reveal waterfalls and dense canopy a short drive from the tea estates.
Nature
Rusizi National Park
Where the Rusizi River meets Lake Tanganyika, this reserve is known for hippos, crocodiles, and a wealth of water birds. Boat and walking safaris near Bujumbura make it an easy half-day in nature.
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Plan Your Trip
Getting Around Bujumbura
Tours, stays, transfers, and flights — curated partner options are on the way.
Tours & Activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and day experiences — curated partner options are on the way.
Coming soonWhere to Stay
Hotels, apartments, and guesthouses across every neighbourhood — booking options are on the way.
Coming soonAirport Transfers
Private and shared rides between the airport and the city centre — partner options are on the way.
Coming soonFlights
Compare fares from hundreds of airlines to find the best route in — search options are on the way.
Coming soonTravel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Burundi
Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Burundi page at Yoogo.
Burundi uses the Burundian franc (BIF). Cash is essential, as card payment infrastructure is very limited outside Bujumbura. ATMs are scarce, and US dollars and euros can be exchanged at banks and bureaux de change in the capital.
Burundi presents significant security risks. Political instability, inter-ethnic tensions, and sporadic violence have affected parts of the country. Many governments advise against non-essential travel. Petty crime is common in Bujumbura. Check your government's current travel advisory carefully and keep abreast of developments before and during any visit.
Minibuses (known as taxi-bus) are the main form of intercity transport. Taxis operate in Bujumbura. Road quality is poor in rural areas, particularly during the rainy season. There is no functioning passenger rail service. Internal flights are very limited.
Burundi has two dry seasons: June to August and December to January. The long dry season from June to August is the most comfortable for travel, with lower humidity and more accessible roads. The rainy seasons run from February to May and September to November.
Kirundi is the national language spoken by nearly the entire population. French is the official language of government and education. Swahili is widely used in commerce and is useful for travelling in the region.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry. Malaria is prevalent throughout the country and prophylaxis is strongly advised. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and cholera vaccinations are also commonly recommended. Consult a travel health clinic at least four to six weeks before departure.
Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated. In restaurants, leaving a modest amount above the bill is a kind gesture. Guides and drivers who provide good service appreciate a gratuity.
Mobile coverage is available in Bujumbura and major towns, provided by Econet Leo and Lumitel. Coverage is patchy in rural areas. Internet speeds can be slow. Prepaid SIM cards are available in the capital.
Burundian culture places great emphasis on greetings and respect for elders. Always greet people before starting a conversation. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Photography of government buildings, military installations, and bridges is prohibited. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.