Photo: Andreas31, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

East Africa · Country guide

Burundi

Lake Tanganyika beaches and famous drumming in a small, hilly country.

Flag of Burundi
Capital
Gitega (largest city: Bujumbura)
Region
East Africa
Languages
Kirundi, French and English
Currency
Burundian franc
Best time to visit
Jun to Sep, Dec to Feb

Travel advice: some regions are off-limits. Check your government’s advice for the exact areas before you book.

Burundi sees few visitors. Bujumbura sits on the shore of Lake Tanganyika, and the ritual dance of the royal drum is on UNESCO’s heritage list. Some areas are off-limits under most advisories.

Did you know? Burundi’s ritual dance of the royal drum is on UNESCO’s list of intangible heritage.

Travel advice: Parts of the country are off-limits under most government travel advice. Check your government’s advice before booking.

Known for

  • Lake Tanganyika beaches
  • Royal drummers of Gishora
  • Kibira National Park
  • Source of the Nile monument

Did you know?

Burundi’s ritual dance of the royal drum is on UNESCO’s list of intangible heritage.

Before you go

  • Visas: rules depend on your passport and change often. Check Burundi’s official immigration website and see our visa guide.
  • Health: see a travel clinic about vaccines and malaria. Read our health guide.
  • Safety: read your government’s current travel advice for Burundi.

Plan your trip

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Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Burundi?

Gitega (largest city: Bujumbura).

What currency does Burundi use?

Burundian franc.

What languages are spoken in Burundi?

Kirundi, French and English.

When is the best time to visit Burundi?

Jun to Sep, Dec to Feb.

Have you been to Burundi?

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