Your Complete Pre-Travel Guide to Visiting Burundi
Burundi is one of East Africa’s most authentic, untouched, and welcoming travel destinations. From the crystal shores of Lake Tanganyika to the sacred Gishora Drums, the country offers unique experiences — but preparation is essential.
This guide ensures you arrive ready, confident, and fully informed.
1. Entry Requirements for Burundi
Visa Information
Most travelers require a visa, and Burundi offers:
- Visa on arrival (for many nationalities)
- eVisa system
- Embassy visa
M Travel and Tours Burundi can assist with the process and provide updated entry details based on your nationality.
Documents You Must Carry
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Visa or eVisa confirmation
- Return/onward flight ticket
- Accommodation confirmation
- Yellow fever vaccination card (required for most travelers)
2. Best Time to Visit Burundi
Burundi is a year-round destination.
The country enjoys:
- Warm weather
- Refreshing rain seasons
- Beautiful green landscapes
Even during rainy months, travel is absolutely possible — rain showers are usually short and followed by clear skies.
3. Health & Safety Preparation
Vaccinations to Consider
- Yellow Fever (mandatory)
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Routine vaccinations (Tetanus, MMR, etc.)
Health Tips
- Drink bottled water
- Use mosquito repellent
- Carry personal medication
- Avoid raw or unwashed foods
Safety
Burundi is safe for travelers, especially when you move with a trusted operator like M Travel and Tours Burundi.
We provide:
- Reliable drivers
- Clean vehicles
- Professional guides
- Daily safety updates
4. Currency & Money in Burundi
Important Facts
- The local currency is Burundian Franc (BIF)
- ATMs can be unreliable
- USD is widely accepted for tourism-related payments
What to Prepare
- Bring USD in crisp notes (2013 and newer)
- Carry small cash for daily needs
- Don’t depend fully on credit cards
M Travel and Tours Burundi can assist with safe and fair currency exchange.
5. Packing Checklist for Burundi
Clothing
- Light, breathable clothes
- Light jacket (evenings can be cool)
- Rain jacket (weather can change suddenly)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimwear for Lake Tanganyika beaches
Essentials
- Power bank
- Universal travel adapter
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellent
- Basic first-aid items
- Refillable water bottle
Optional But Useful
- Binoculars (for wildlife)
- Camera or GoPro
- Small backpack for day tours
6. Staying Connected in Burundi
Internet is improving, but roaming can be expensive and slow.
Best Options
- Lumitel SIM card
- Econet SIM card
M Travel and Tours Burundi helps you:
- Buy and register your SIM
- Set up mobile internet
- Stay connected everywhere
7. Transport & Getting Around
Best Option: Guided Transport
Burundi has unique road conditions, and local knowledge is key.
Why use M Travel and Tours Burundi:
- Punctual drivers
- Clean & comfortable cars
- Safety-first approach
- Local guidance
- Full itinerary management
Other Options
- Taxis (negotiate before entering)
- Moto-taxis (avoid for safety unless guided)
- Buses (not recommended for tourists)
8. Cultural Tips Before You Arrive
Greetings Matter
Burundians appreciate politeness.
Learn simple phrases:
- “Amahoro”—Hello/Peace
- “Urakoze”—Thank you
- “Amakuru?”—How are you?
Respectful Behavior
- Ask before taking photos
- Dress modestly in rural areas
- Be patient — things move at an African pace
9. Must-See Places to Add to Your Itinerary
- Lake Tanganyika — beaches, sunsets, boat tours
- Gishora Drum Sanctuary — sacred royal drums
- Rusizi National Park — hippos, birds, nature
- Kibira National Park — rainforest & hiking
- Gitega Museum — national culture & history
- Karera Waterfalls — natural beauty
- Source of the Nile — historic landmark
M Travel and Tours Burundi can customize your itinerary based on your travel time and interests.
10. Final Tips Before You Fly
- Keep digital and physical copies of your documents
- Confirm your airport pick-up (we offer free service)
- Share your itinerary with family
- Arrive with an open mind — Burundi is friendly, warm, and welcoming
- Let M Travel and Tours Burundi assist you from arrival to departure
Plan Your Burundi Trip with Confidence
With the right preparation — and the right local support — Burundi becomes one of the easiest and most rewarding destinations to explore.
M Travel and Tours Burundi is here to make your visit smooth, safe, and unforgettable.