Burundi-2-day-itinerary

Burundi Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Bujumbura and its surroundings

Morning:

  • 8:00 AM: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel or local café
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Lake Tanganyika Beach, where you can relax, swim, and enjoy water sports (Note: Be sure to respect local customs and dress modestly)
  • 10:30 AM: Head to the Bujumbura Museum to learn about Burundi’s history, culture, and art
  • 12:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant, trying some traditional Burundian cuisine like ikanwa (stewed meat) or ugwiriko (steamed fish)

Afternoon:

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the King’s Palace, a stunning colonial-era building that now serves as a museum
  • 4:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Bujumbura Waterfront, where you can enjoy the views of Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding hills

Evening:

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying some of Burundi’s famous coffee or tea
  • 9:00 PM: Relax at your hotel or explore the city’s nightlife (Note: Burundi has a relatively conservative culture, so dress modestly and respect local customs)

Day 2: Visiting Gitega and the surrounding countryside

Morning:

  • 8:00 AM: Depart for Gitega ( approx. 1-hour drive), the capital city of Burundi
  • 9:30 AM: Visit the Gitega National Museum to learn about Burundi’s history, culture, and art
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the Gitega Market, where you can buy local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs

Afternoon:

  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Gitega
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Inamiza Waterfall ( approx. 30-minute drive), a beautiful spot for hiking and photography
  • 4:30 PM: Return to Bujumbura, reflecting on your experiences from the past two days

Things to Know:

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of most countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Burundi’s international airport or border crossings. However, it’s essential to check with your government’s travel advisory website for the latest information.
  • Transportation: Taxis and buses are readily available in Bujumbura, while private cars and drivers can be hired for longer trips. Be sure to negotiate prices beforehand.
  • Safety: Burundi is generally a safe country for tourists, but it’s essential to exercise caution and respect local customs.
  • Health and Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic before traveling to Burundi, as some vaccinations may be required.
  • Language: Kirundi and French are the official languages of Burundi. English is not widely spoken, so it’s helpful to learn basic phrases in Kirundi.

Additional Tips:

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes, and avoid public displays of affection.
  • Haggling: Haggling is a common practice at markets and with taxi drivers. Be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Water and Food Safety: Take necessary precautions when consuming tap water or eating street food.

Getting There:

  • International Airport: Bujumbura International Airport (BJM) receives flights from major African cities and some European destinations.
  • Border Crossings: Burundi shares borders with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Be prepared for long journeys and potential delays at border crossings.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Weather: Burundi’s climate is generally warm and humid, with two rainy seasons (March-May and September-November).
  • Tourist Season: The best time to visit Burundi is during the dry season (June-August).

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, giving you a glimpse into the wonders of Burundi. Remember to stay flexible, respect local customs, and enjoy your journey!