Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Burundi. #Top Attractions

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Are you contemplating a vacation to Burundi? Check out our curated list of the best things to do in Burundi and the best places to visit in Burundi below. We at Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, have big plans to shake things up in the travel business.

Bujumbura

Bujumbura, Burundi
Bujumbura, Burundi / *SHERWOOD* / Flickr

Do you want to explore a small city with many historical landmarks and beautiful destinations?

Bujumbura is the place to go! This city in Burundi comprises many landmarks, parks, and beautiful natural attractions. It is the capital of Burundi, which is formerly known as Usumbura.

If you enjoy shopping, this city has bustling markets where you may have the ultimate African shopping experience.

In this city, you can also visit one of the best museums in Africa, the Living Museum.

Visit the Independence Monument commemorating the struggles during the Belgian, German, and French occupation.

This beautiful city, also known as Buji, has kept many French colonial traits, including outstanding nightlife, drink, and food.

Don’t miss a chance to visit some of the national parks in Bujumbura! A relaxing and enjoyable picnic will always be a great idea.

Brace yourself for a memorable Burundi travel experience here in Bujumbura!

Address: Bujumbura, Burundi

Bururi Nature Reserve

Bururi Nature Reserve is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

The connection between heaven and the earth.

Burundi’s Bururi Forest Nature Reserve was once thought to be the connection between heaven and earth. 

The ancient Burundians have greatly valued forest conservation throughout history, particularly in mountainous areas. Some mountain forests have been protected and are used as places of worship.

This nature reserve also features hundreds of flora and fauna species. Aside from that, it has also been declared an important Bird Conservation Area in Burundi due to its diverse avifauna, which includes several rare and endemic species.

Bururi’s lush woodlands are ideal habitats for various creatures, including more than a hundred species of birds.

You will truly enjoy walking around in this tourist spot because of the beautiful greeneries in the surroundings. 

Because of the reserve’s elevation, it’s a great place to cool off in the summer heat.

Connect with nature as you walk around in this beautiful spot in Burundi.

Address: Burunga, Burundi

Central Market

Central Market is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Do you love shopping? Because in this shopping destination, you will never want to stop!

Known as the city’s economic heart, The Central Market offers various products from fresh produce to thrift clothes, cooking pots, and fabrics.

With its twisty hallways and numerous closet-sized stalls, Burundi’s largest covered market is a fascinating site to explore.

This bustling market is the best place where you can buy souvenirs and homemade crafts!

This will surely be a sacred spot for you if you love fabrics. You will find colorful and patterned African fabrics here at the Central Market, perfect for your crafts and DIY projects.

Straight out from Lake Tanganyika, fresh fish and locally produced palm oil can also be purchased here.

If you are a person who loves to cook, you should not forget to buy a cooking pot or two! It would be an excellent souvenir for your Burundi trip.

Don’t miss the chance to have the ultimate African shopping experience!

Address: Rue Pierre Ngendandumwe, Bujumbura

Chutes de la Kerera

Chutes de la Kerera is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Fall in love with these beautiful waterfalls!

Chutes de la Karera is a series of four stunning cascades near Rutana. It is among the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The fall closest to the parking lot is the most beautiful, but don’t let that discourage you from exploring the rest of the area to see the other falls.

The Kerera Fall, the area’s tallest and most dramatic cascade among the four, might be extremely scary during the height of the wet season. 

There is a little waterfall upstream, Nyakai II, where you can take a refreshing dip.

The forest views of the surrounding of these waterfalls are also stunning! It is a perfect spot to enjoy sightseeing.

Hiking will be one of your activities during your visit to this spot, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes!

Make sure not to trip and fall as you explore this fantastic place of waterfalls!

Address: Rutana, Burundi

Gishora

Gishora is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Listen like royalty at this musical sanctuary.

Gishora is situated on the top of a hill 7 kilometers from the town of Gitega. The drum sanctuary is the primary attraction of Gishora and a frequent pit point for safari expeditions.

King Mwezi Gisabo established this drum site following his triumph against rebel leader Chief Ntibirangwa.

The ‘Abatimbo’ community, which descends from the old lineage of ‘Abanyigisaka,’ has and continuously will operate this site.

Drums in Burundi were once a symbol of the monarchy’s sovereignty. These drums were used for ceremonial occasions such as sowing festivals, a new king’s enthronement, and a deceased monarch’s funeral.

In this historical site, you will see a couple of ritual drums never used. They are named Murimirwa, “the one for whom we cultivate,” and Ruciteme, “the one for whom we clear the forest.” These drums meant the King’s fertility and characteristics and the farming vocation.

Make sure to visit this historical site and witness a stunning drum performance!

Address: Gishora, Burundi

Gitega

Gitega, Burundi
Gitega, Burundi / Dave Proffer / Flickr

The second-largest and culturally rich city in the African country of Burundi is the beautiful Gitega. 

Gitega once served as the capital of Burundi. The city boasts many interesting attractions, including the impressive Gitega National Museum, an extensive collection of relics and antiquities from Burundi’s past.

It is in this place where you can find budget-friendly accommodations. The city is frequently a stopover during the night on safari tours.

You also visit the ceramics, painting, and sculpting school called the Gitega Art School, where you can buy locally produced art and craft items.

Gitega also houses numerous restaurants that offer traditional cuisines in Burundi. 

You might want to visit the city’s most important religious landmark, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Gitega, also known as the Cathedral of Christ the King. It is located a few hundred meters from the city center. 

Spend a day exploring this wonderful city of Burundi!

Address: Gitega, Burundi

Kigwena Natural Forest

Kigwena Natural Forest is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

This magical destination is too good to be true.

The Kigwena Natural Forest is more than 3,000 hectares in size and is home to various species of flora and fauna. The forest is located near the town of Bururi and was founded as a reserve in 1954.

This forest is vast, and walking through it feels like an adventure.

You can experience sightings of monkeys and baboons walking around and swinging through the canopies! If you love butterflies and birds, this is an excellent spot to see and witness various beautiful species.

The country’s Environmental and Conservation Institute offers a guided tour of this beautiful forest. You’ll find the Mugara hot springs in the area, which will provide you with an unforgettable experience while in this African country.

The lush greeneries of this tourist destination provide picturesque views, making it a great spot to take beautiful pictures.

Visit and see for yourself this enchanting destination!

Address: Rumonge Commune in Bururi Province

Lake Rwihinda Natural Reserve

Lake Rwihinda Natural Reserve is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Are you stressed out and want to feel at peace? If you are, visit this spot in Burundi. Even the birds find this place peaceful. 

Lake Rwihinda is located in northern Burundi and is among the country’s most popular tourist spots. Protected areas around the lake have some of the world’s most interesting flora and fauna.

This destination was Lac aux Oiseaux, the french translation of “Bird Lake.” Over 8,000 hectares of forest, grassland, and shrubland make up the reserve.

T tens of thousands of migrating waterbirds use the Lake Rwihinda Natural Reserve as a breeding ground each year.

For birdwatchers, there’s no better site than the lake. The number of unusual and magnificent birds visiting this lake is too much to mention.

The magnificent views and different birds flying around the lake make it a peaceful tourist destination. 

This place is a must-visit destination you can’t miss!

Address: Lake Rwihinda, Burundi

Lake Tanganyika

Lake Tanganyika, Burundi
Lake Tanganyika, Burundi / Dave Proffer / Flickr

Have you seen the world’s longest and second-deepest freshwater lake? Visit this spot while you are in Burundi!

The waters of Lake Tanganyika flow into Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Congo DR from Tanganyika’s shores. After Russia’s Lake Baikal, it is the world’s second-deepest freshwater lake.

Because Lake Tanganyika is one of the world’s most ecologically diverse ecosystems, it is a model for evolutionary change. There are 350 fish species in Lake Tanganyika, most of which are endemic.

Sportfishing is one of the activities you can try here at this destination. The goliath tigerfish and Nile perch are two of the most sought-after fish.

You can also swim at the Mpunglu, an area of the lake that is the safest part of swimming. Another water activity you can enjoy is surfing! 

You will enjoy sightseeing around the lake because of the beautiful views of dark blue waters.

Make sure to include this destination in your Burundi itinerary!

Address: Lake Tanganyika, Burundi

Mount Heha

Mount Heha is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Explore and discover the highest place in Burundi.

Mt. Heha is Burundi’s tallest mountain, rising 2,670 meters above sea level and the tallest peak in Burundi’s Highlands mountain chain.

Bujumbura Rural province of Burundi is located roughly 20 kilometers east of Lake Tanganyika and approximately 30 kilometers southeast of Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi.

Love adventure and challenge? You can enjoy trekking at this destination! With its high elevation, this mountain offers a good challenge for climbers.

If you plan to hike, Bujumbura is the best place to base yourself before attempting to climb the peak.

The stunning views from the top will surely take your breath away! Make sure to wear sturdy shoes as well! You will enjoy the forest views as you climb the mountain.

It would indeed be an unforgettable experience if you could reach the top of this beautiful Mount Heha.

Address: Bujumbura, Burundi

Losing time to regret is a waste of time. Go travel – Let’s go make some memories. For the full list of countries to visit around the world, visit our around the world travel guide. When you travel the world, you have to go to the USA. Fancy an all-American experience? Discover the best places to visit in each state in USA.

Mugara Hot Springs

Mugara Hot Springs is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Healing and therapeutic destination each tourist would love to visit. 

The Mugara hot springs are located in the town of Mugara, which is approximately 176 kilometers from Bujumbura.

Mugara is made up of two falls that create a downstream basin. The springs also flow naturally into Lake Tanganyika.

The hot springs create an actual hot (swimming) pool with a temperature of 48 degrees Celsius. Locals have known the hot springs for their therapeutic qualities against rheumatism and dyspepsia since immemorial.

It’s a common belief in the area that the Mugara hot springs have healing qualities. So many people with a variety of ailments visit the springs to soak in hot water.

The perfect time to visit this Burundi must-visit spot is during the cold and wet season.

You must try taking a dip into the pool to experience this hot spring’s healing and therapeutic benefits.

Address: Bujumbura, Burundi

Regina Mundi Cathedral

Regina Mundi Cathedral is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Make a stop at the not-so-old yet the oldest religious attraction in the former capital of Burundi.

The Archdiocese of Bujumbura was established by Pope Benedict XVI on November 25, 2006, and it serves as the archdiocese’s headquarters.

The cathedral of the Queen of the world is a remarkable landmark because of its altar and glasswork ornamentation.

Aside from being the oldest church in the city, it is also known as the largest religious attraction because of its spacious area. It can house more than 2,000 devotees at the same time.

Tourists worldwide flock to the church in Bujumbura today, making it a major tourist attraction.

Spend your time appreciating this religious attraction’s beautiful altar and stunning glassworks. 

The architecture and facade of this attraction are also a must-see. 

If you are taking a tour around Bujumbura, this is a great spot to consider visiting!

Address: Boulevard Patrick Lumumba, Rohero, Bujumbura

Rumonge Natural Reserve

Rumonge Natural Reserve is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Another bird sanctuary that you can visit in Burundi.’

Rumonge Natural Reserve was established in 1980 and is among Burundi’s most recent conservation areas.

Rumonge Reserve, like the other reserves in Burundi, is home to a number of exotic bird species that can be seen here throughout the year.

You will also witness several mammal species and exotic plant life unique to the region. Take note that a guided tour is required so you can access the park.

This is a great spot for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts! 

You’ll be amazed at the sightings of different species of animals, which can make your trip an unforgettable experience!

For photographers, you will surely enjoy taking pictures of the rare and beautiful bird species here! 

If you want to rest from Burundi’s bustling cities, this is a great place to refresh and relax.

Address: Bujumbura Mairie Province, Burundi

Rusizi River National Park

Rusizi River National Park is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Enjoy a thrilling experience in the most famous national park in Burundi.

Rusizi National Park is located 15 kilometers northwest of Bujumbura and a few kilometers north of the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Rusizi National Park is one of Burundi’s most famous national parks and reserves, as well as the most visited, owing to the abundance of animals and crocodiles on the Rusizi River.

This spot is fantastic for bird viewing, game drives, and nature hikes. It is considered the best destination in Burundi for wildlife viewing.

The 4×4 Safari Jeep is a must when arranging a Burundi Safari Trip so that you can see the wildlife in the wild.

This park will eventually house Gustave, a huge man-eating croc that has long haunted the Rusizi and northern Tanganyika coastlines. 

While most Nile crocodiles are over 20 feet long, Gustave is said to be 30 feet long, with a 40-foot tail. Locals say he’s eaten fishermen and swimmers alike. 

Visit the reptile village, where he allegedly ate over 300 people in one raid.

If you love to experience a thrill, experience a safari here!

Address: R.N.4, Kinyinya, Burundi

Ruvubu National Park

Ruvubu National Park is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Looking for a place to have the ultimate safari experience?

This national wildlife park is a must-visit attraction for your safari adventures!

Burundi’s Ruvubu National Park is home to a variety of wildlife species. This destination is Burundi’s largest national park, with a total area of 508 square kilometers.

Ruvubu National Park is named after the Ruvubu River, which runs through it. The park is the final remains of the once-vast natural grassland habitat.

Because of its diverse flora and fauna, Ruvubu National Park stands out among Burundi’s tourist destinations.

When you visit Burundi’s Ruvubu Park, you will be astounded by the diversity of the park’s flora and animals.

You will be able to see a wide variety of wildlife due to the park’s widespread abundance of wildlife.

Enjoy the variety of safari activities here in this spot, such as bird watching, nature walks, boat safaris, walking safaris, and game drives.

Address: North-eastern Burundi

Saga Beach

Saga Beach is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Have you ever seen a beach on a lake? 

This destination proves that a country doesn’t need a coastline to have beautiful beaches.

You read that correctly. Although Burundi is a landlocked country, it has a number of beautiful lake beaches that are popular with tourists, which is why numerous resorts have settled around Lake Tanganyika.

The most picturesque beach in the city is located about 5 kilometers to the northwest and was formerly known as Plage des Cocotiers (Coconut Beach).

The beach on Lake Tanganyika’s shore may not be a white sand Mediterranean beach, but it’s an excellent place to cool off in the lake’s warm waters.

Weekends are the greatest days to enjoy the beach since the people would be out in abundance, ensuring a busy and enjoyable atmosphere.

There are a number of restaurants and pubs in the nearby surroundings, and they’ll be happy to serve you while you relax.

Enjoy a dip in the waters of Lake Tanganyika here at Saga Beach!

Address: Bujumbura, Burundi

The Source du Nil

The Source du Nil is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

There is some controversy as to whether or not the Nile actually originates here.  

But even if it doesn’t, Source du Nil is still a beautiful natural sight to see. The southernmost stream of the Nile River is believed to originate in this spring, located about 100 kilometers from the capital.

You will see a beautiful stone pyramid at the site to mark the location of the alleged source of the world’s longest river.

To reach this location, you will need either your own mode of transportation or the services of a local guide ready to drive you there.

A half-hour journey south of the Source du Nil will take you to the relaxing hot springs. This is a great spot as well to take beautiful photographs.

Make sure to try taking a dip in this controversial hot spring. This is a great spot to relax during your trip to Burundi. 

Address: Ave Source du Nil, Bujumbura, Burundi

The Kibira National Park

The Kibira National Park is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

Have you ever seen a friendly chimpanzee?

On your Burundi safari, don’t forget to visit this excellent location for ape viewing!

The second-largest wildlife reserve is Kibira National Park, an area of 40,000 hectares, located at the summit of the majestic Congo-Nile range.

For a more enjoyable experience, hire a knowledgeable guide who will lead you through the forest, stopping to point out rare birds, wildlife, and even some of the park’s resident primates.

The best time to visit Kibira National Park in Burundi for Chimpanzee tracking is from September to November and December to January.

The park’s dense forest is home to chimpanzees, Colobus monkeys, and other primates, including 98 different species of mammal.

Aside from chimpanzees, you can also witness various birds and mammals around the forests. 200 different types of birds make bird watching a popular activity here in this destination.

Enjoy a safari trip here at The Kibira National Park!

Address: Bujumbura, Burundi

The Living Museum

The Living Museum is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

The best destination to visit for all seasons.

Burundi’s Living Museum of Bujumbura is a zoo and museum. The museum is one of the country’s public museums located in Bujumbura.

The museum, located along the Avenue du 13 Octobre in Bujumbura, is a multi-purpose facility and a well-known tourist destination in Africa that was established in 1977 and is 3 hectares in size. 

In the zoo, you will witness a monkey, crocodiles, chimpanzees, leopards, tortoise, snakes, fish, guinea fowls, and an antelope.

Replicas of traditional Burundian homes can be found in the park and a wide variety of plants. 

This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the country’s rich artistic and natural heritage.

It has a vast artifact collection. Explore an array of traditional tools in a thatched hut in the museum’s cultural area.

Taking images of past royalty and having the opportunity to touch a crocodile and hold a snake is a thrilling-but-memorable experience!

Address: Avenue du 13 Octobre, Bujumbura, Burundi

Vyanda Natural Reserve

Vyanda Natural Reserve is one of the best places to go in Burundi.

This is the last but not the least chimps destination you must visit in Burundi.

The Vyanda reserve, another of Burundi’s natural reserves, is easily accessible from the nearby town of Rumonge. Seeing chimpanzees is the main attraction here.

The 4670-hectare Vyanda Nature Reserve is located 90 kilometers from Bujumbura, in the Province of Bururi, southwest of Burundi.

Even though the reserve isn’t particularly well-suited to tourists, a trip there is achievable with some preparation and communication. 

A guided tour is a must at this destination. If your tour guide fails to show you any of the chimpanzees living here, you may be charged a reduced fee of the total price.

The chimps here are wild because they have never encountered people in their natural habitat. You shouldn’t expect the same kinds of photo opportunities that you may find in other African reserves.

Plan a trip and explore this beautiful safari of Burundi.

Still wondering if you should visit Burundi? Check out reasons to visit Burundi at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: Bururi, Burundi

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