Can I use USD in Burundi?

Currency Tips for Travelers from M Travel and Tours Burundi

If you’re planning a trip to Burundi, one of the most common questions is:
“Can I use US dollars in Burundi?”

The short answer is: Yes, but only in limited situations.
Here’s what you need to know before you go — so you can travel smart and avoid surprises.

✅ Where USD Is Accepted in Burundi

USD is not a widely accepted currency for everyday purchases, but it can be used in specific situations, especially when you’re booking with professional travel companies like M Travel and Tours Burundi.

You can use USD for:

Booking tours and packages with tour operators
Paying at some hotels and resorts (especially in Bujumbura)
Paying visa fees at the airport
High-end services like car rentals or business hotels

💡 Important: Only new, clean USD notes (printed after 2006) are accepted. Torn or old bills are often rejected by banks or money changers.

🚫 Where USD Is Not Accepted

Don’t expect to use dollars in:

Local restaurants or cafés
Supermarkets or corner shops
Gas stations
Markets and village areas
Public transportation or taxis

For these, you’ll need Burundian Francs (FBu).

💱 Currency Exchange in Burundi

You can exchange USD to Burundian Francs (FBu) at:

Banks (e.g. Ecobank, CRDB, Bancobu)
Authorized forex bureaus in Bujumbura or Gitega
Some major hotels (at slightly lower rates)

💡 Exchange rates vary slightly, but we’ll always help you find the best option when you book through M Travel and Tours Burundi.

💳 Can I Use Credit Cards in Burundi?

Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and supermarkets, but not everywhere
Always carry some cash in FBu for local purchases
ATMs exist in major towns but may not always accept foreign cards