Must-See Places in Burundi for First-Time Visitors
Discover the beauty, culture, and adventure waiting for you in Burundi — East Africa’s hidden gem.
✈️ Planning Your First Trip to Burundi?
If it’s your first time visiting Burundi, you’re in for something truly special. This small but vibrant country offers a rich mix of natural beauty, cultural traditions, historical depth, and warm hospitality — all in one compact destination.
To help you get started, here are the top must-see places in Burundi that you shouldn’t miss on your first visit — carefully curated by the local experts at M Travel and Tours Burundi.
🌆 1. Bujumbura City – The Capital with a Soul
Bujumbura isn’t just a starting point — it’s a destination in itself. From colorful markets to lakeside views, there’s so much to explore:
- Independence Monument & Unity Monument
- Livingstone–Stanley Monument
- Bujumbura Central Market
- Saga Plage – a lively beach on Lake Tanganyika
- Cultural museums & local restaurants
📍 Tip: Try a city tour with a local guide to learn the stories behind the city.
🥁 2. Gishora Drum Sanctuary – Hear the Heartbeat of Burundi
Located just outside Gitega, this UNESCO-worthy site is where traditional Burundian drummers perform powerful, ceremonial rhythms.
- Experience a live royal drum performance
- Learn about Burundi’s monarchy and sacred rituals
- Perfect for photography and cultural immersion
📍 First-time magic: You’ll feel the drums in your chest — it’s unforgettable.
🏞️ 3. Karera Waterfalls – Nature’s Masterpiece
In Rutana Province, Karera Falls is a natural wonder made of multiple waterfalls cascading into a lush green gorge.
- Peaceful walking trails
- Great for eco-tourism & nature lovers
- Surrounded by banana trees and misty hills
📍 Don’t forget: Bring a towel and swimwear — you might want to splash around.
🛶 4. Lake Tanganyika – Africa’s Ancient Freshwater Jewel
Burundi’s coastline along Lake Tanganyika offers incredible sunsets, peaceful boat rides, and cool lake breezes.
- Take a sunset cruise with M Travel’s private boat
- Visit fishermen villages and local markets by the shore
- Enjoy lakeside hotels with great food and music
📍 Local tip: Try grilled fish with “uburobe” at a lakeside restaurant.
🐘 5. Rusizi National Park – Wildlife Just Minutes from the City
Only 20 minutes from Bujumbura, Rusizi National Park is a hidden wildlife haven:
- Spot hippos, antelopes, crocodiles, and rare birds
- Guided river tours and walking safaris available
- Great for morning or afternoon trips
📍 Perfect for: Families, photographers, and wildlife lovers.
🏛️ 6. Gitega – The Cultural Capital
Recently named Burundi’s political capital, Gitega is full of history, art, and royal heritage.
- Visit the National Museum of Gitega
- See traditional crafts and local art
- Close to Gishora and other historical drum sites
📍 Fun fact: Gitega sits in the heart of the country — great for connecting north and south.
🌋 7. Source of the Nile (Burundi side) – A Quiet, Sacred Spot
Yes, you read that right — one of the sources of the Nile River is in Burundi.
- Located near Rutovu, in the southern highlands
- Surrounded by mountains and farmland
- A peaceful place for reflection and nature lovers
📍 Bring your guide: It’s a great photo opportunity, but the road can be tricky alone.
🌱 Bonus: Tea Fields of Teza – Green Hills and Peaceful Views
Perfect for a scenic stop between Bujumbura and Gitega.
- Walk through endless green hills
- Learn about Burundi’s tea farming
- Cool, quiet climate and photogenic landscapes
📍 Perfect for: Nature lovers and those seeking a slower travel pace.
💬 Need Help Planning?
M Travel and Tours Burundi is here to organize your entire trip:
- 📍 Custom itineraries
- 🚐 Airport pickup & private drivers
- 🏨 Hotel bookings
- 🥘 Traditional meals & cultural experiences
- 🛶 Boat tours and local guides
📞 Contact Us Today
📧 Email: mtravelandtoursbi@gmail.com
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +257 658 27295
📍 Office: Gallery Kaze, 2nd Floor, Bujumbur