Absolutely! Burundi is often called the “Heart of Africa” not only because of its central location, but also for its scenic, hilly terrain that dominates much of the landscape. The country is part of the Albertine Rift, a branch of the East African Rift system, and this gives rise to dramatic highlands, rolling hills, and fertile valleys.
Here’s a detailed guide to tourism and safaris in Burundi, perfect if you’re looking for a deep dive into what this small, fascinating country has to offer:
Burundi is one of Africa’s smallest countries, bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. While not yet a major tourism hub, Burundi offers an immersive and raw travel experience—lush landscapes, cultural richness, and low tourist traffic make it ideal for intrepid explorers.
Safari and Nature-Based Tourism in Burundi
1. Rusizi National Park (Parc National de la Rusizi)
– Location: About 15 minutes northwest of Bujumbura.
– Size: Approximately 90 square kilometers.
– Ecosystem: Wetland and savanna ecosystems surrounding the Rusizi River.
Wildlife:
– Hippos and Nile crocodiles can be seen lounging near the riverbanks.
– Sitatunga antelope, an elusive species adapted to swampy environments.
– Birdlife: Over 200 species, including African fish eagles, herons, kingfishers, and cormorants.
– Activities:
– Boat safaris along the Rusizi River.
– Birdwatching and guided wildlife walks.
– Best time to visit: Dry season (June–August or December–February) when animals are more visible.
2. Ruvubu National Park
– Location: In the northeast, near Muyinga and Ruyigi provinces, close to the Tanzanian border.
– Size: The largest national park in Burundi, covering over 500 square kilometers.
– Ecosystem: Savannah, wetlands, and woodland.
– Wildlife:
– Antelopes (roan, reedbuck, bushbuck), hippos, warthogs.
– Occasionally spotted: leopards and buffaloes.
– Excellent birdwatching, with migratory and endemic species.
– Activities:
– Guided walking safaris and nature trails.
– Observation points for wildlife viewing.
– Challenges: Limited infrastructure; adventurous travelers will enjoy the wild, untouched nature.
3.Kibira National Park
-Location: Northwestern Burundi, bordering Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest.
-Ecosystem: Dense montane rainforest; part of the Congo-Nile Divide.
-Wildlife:
-Home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, baboons, and forest hogs.
-Over 200 bird species, including the Great Blue Turaco.
– Activities:
– Guided forest hikes and primate tracking.
– Birdwatching and ecological tours.
– Access: From Teza or Bugarama; 4×4 vehicle recommended.
Scenic & Natural Attractions
Lake Tanganyika
– Why Visit: One of the world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lakes.
-Activities:
-Swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
-Beach relaxation at Saga Plage (Saga Beach) near Bujumbura.
-Sunset views and local food on the shores.
Nearby Attractions:
-Cultural visits to local fishing communities.
-Boat trips and island excursions.
Source of the Nile (Chutes de la Karera & Rutovu)
-Location: Near Rutovu in southern Burundi.
-Significance: One of the disputed sources of the Nile River.
-Attractions:
-Scenic waterfalls (Karera Falls).
-Historical monuments and viewpoints.
-Hiking trails and panoramic views of the Burundian highlands.
Major Mountains and Hills in Burundi
Mount Heha (Mont Heha)
-Elevation: 2,670 meters (8,760 feet)
-Highest point in Burundi
-Location: Near Bujumbura, in the Bujumbura Rural Province, part of the Burundi Highlands.
-Hiking: Moderate to challenging hike, best done with a local guide. Offers panoramic views of Bujumbura, Lake Tanganyika, and the surrounding countryside.
-Fun Fact: Part of the Congo-Nile Divide, which separates the waters flowing west into the Congo River from those flowing east into the Nile.
Mount Teza
-Elevation: About 2,100 meters
-Location: Muramvya Province
– Known for its tea plantations—Teza Tea is one of Burundi’s famous exports.
– The region is lush and green, with cool mountain air and beautiful photo opportunities.
Mount Kikizi
– Elevation: 2,145 meters
– Location: Near Rutovu, Bururi Province (southern Burundi)
– Significance: Near the Source of the Nile, one of the claimed furthest sources of the Nile River.
-The area is dotted with valleys, waterfalls, and steep ridges.
Mount Mugamba Plateau
-Not a single mountain, but a high plateau area with several prominent hills.
-Location: In the south-central part of the country, mainly Bururi Province.
-Known for its rich biodiversity, cool climate, and being part of the Burundi Highlands.
5.Nyakazu Fault (or “The German Fault”)
-Location: Southeast Burundi, near the Karera Falls and Rutana town.
-Notable for: Dramatic cliffs and escarpments formed by tectonic activity.
-Great for hiking, sightseeing, and learning about Burundi’s geological history.
The Burundi Highlands (Les Hautes Terres)
-The central and western parts of the country are dominated by highlands, mostly above 1,500 meters in elevation.
-This region includes:
-Gitega Plateau
-Bururi Highlands
-Kibira Forest (a highland rainforest bordering Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest)
Climate & Agriculture
-The highlands have a mild, temperate climate, unlike the hotter lowlands near Lake Tanganyika.
-Fertile volcanic soils support tea, coffee, and banana plantations.
Activities in Burundi’s Mountains and Hills
-Hiking and Trekking: Especially around Mount Heha, Teza, and the Nyakazu Fault.
-Birdwatching: Highland areas like Kibira National Park are hotspots for rare and endemic birds.
-Cultural Visits: The hills are home to traditional villages where you can experience Burundi’s rural culture.
-Waterfalls and Rivers: The highlands feed rivers that flow into the Nile and Congo basins—there are several beautiful waterfalls like Karera Falls.
Accessibility
– Most highland and mountain regions are accessible from Bujumbura or Gitega by road.
– Roads can be winding and rough in some areas—4×4 vehicles are recommended.
– Some hiking routes (like Mount Heha) are not well-marked, so hiring a local guide is a smart idea.
If you’re into trekking, nature photography, geology, or just love cool, green mountain landscapes, Burundi’s highlands are full of potential
waterfalls
1. Karera Waterfalls (Chutes de la Karera)
-Location: Near Rutana, southeastern Burundi.
-Description: A stunning series of cascading falls in a lush, green valley.
-Activities:
-Hiking and nature walk to explore the various falls.
-Photography – dramatic landscape and vibrant greenery.
-Picnicking in nearby shaded spots.
-Birdwatching – the area is rich in birdlife.
2. Nyakai Waterfalls
-Location: In Cibitoke Province, near the Kibira National Park.
-Description: Less known but beautiful, surrounded by forest and hills.
–Activities:
-Guided hikes through forest trails.
-Community-based tourism – visit nearby villages for cultural experiences.
3. Mugara Hot Springs and Waterfall
-Location: South of Bujumbura, near Lake Tanganyika.
-Description: A small waterfall next to natural hot springs.
-Activities:
-Relaxing in the hot mineral springs.
-Exploring the area and learning about local beliefs around the springs.
Activities Around Waterfalls in Burundi:
– Hiking and eco-tours – many waterfalls are reached via scenic trails.
– Cultural visits – nearby communities often offer traditional food, music, and crafts.
– Wildlife spotting – especially birds and butterflies in forested areas.
– Swimming – at safe spots (ask locals or guides first).
Cultural and Historical Tourism
The Royal Drummers of Burundi
-A UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage.
-Drumming is a sacred, energetic performance involving dance, music, and ritual.
-Where to see them: Performances can be arranged in Bujumbura or Gitega.
Gitega National Museum
-Location: Gitega (the new capital).
-Features:
-Royal artifacts from the Kingdom of Burundi.
-Traditional tools, drums, weapons, and ceremonial items.
-Photographs and exhibits explaining Burundi’s history and monarchy.
Livingstone–Stanley Monument
-Location: Mugere, 10 km south of Bujumbura.
-Significance: Marks where explorers David Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley reportedly met in 1871.
-Offers a lovely view over Lake Tanganyika.
Adventure & Ecotourism
Mount Heha
-Elevation: 2,670 meters – Burundi’s highest peak.
-Location: Near Bujumbura.
-Activities: Hiking and climbing with views of the Bujumbura plain and Lake Tanganyika.
-Trails are not well-marked; guides are recommended.
Agasumo Waterfalls and Nyakazu Fault
– Located in southeastern Burundi near Rutana.
– A dramatic landscape of cliffs and deep green valleys.
– Beautiful picnic and photography spot.
Food and Hospitality
-Traditional Dishes:
-Ugali (cassava or cornmeal dough), nyama choma (grilled meat), isombe (cassava leaves).
-Fresh fish from Lake Tanganyika (like ndagala, a small dried fish).
-Drink: Local banana beer or Urwarwa, a home-brewed specialty.
–Accommodations:
-In Bujumbura & Gitega: International-style hotels, lodges, and guesthouses.
-In rural areas: Simple lodges, eco-camps, and missionary guesthouses.