Bujumbura

Burundi, Africa

Bujumbura, situated on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, boasts stunning landscapes, vibrant markets, and rich culture. Known for its warm hospitality, visitors can explore the lively Grounds of the Independence Monument, relax at the scenic Bwiza Beach, or delve into local history at the Museum of Livingstone Stannard. The lush surrounding hills offer breathtaking views, perfect for hikes. Bujumbura's unique blend of nature and culture makes it an unmissable destination in Burundi.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Bujumbura

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Bujumbura

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Lake Tanganyika

Relax on the shores of Africa's second-largest lake.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Rusizi National Park

Spot hippos and diverse wildlife on a safari.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover Gitega Museum

Learn about Burundi's rich history and culture.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander Bujumbura's Central Market

Experience local life and shop for unique crafts.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike Mount Teza

Enjoy panoramic views of Bujumbura and the lake.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Saga Beach

Unwind at Bujumbura's popular lakeside beach.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Presidential Palace

Explore the historical residence of Burundian leaders.

Booking required
8

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Livingstone-Stanley Monument

See the site where the explorers met in 1871.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Local Cuisine at Les Jardins de la Brasserie

Savor traditional dishes in a relaxed setting.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the National Museum of Burundi

Discover Burundi's cultural heritage and artifacts.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Local Festival

Experience vibrant Burundian culture and traditions.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Burundi Art Gallery

Appreciate contemporary art from local artists.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Burundi Franc

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Kirundi

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Boko Boko

VE

A traditional Burundian porridge. (National dish)

Ugali

VE

A staple maize flour dish, similar to polenta.

Beans and Bananas

VE

A mix of beans and ripe bananas.

Brochettes

Grilled meat skewers, often beef or goat.

Ndizi na Nyama

Fried plantains served with meat.

Phrases to learn

English

Kirundi

Hello

Bwakeye

(Bwa-keh-yeh)

Yes/No

Ego / Oya

(Eh-go / Oh-yah)

Thank you

Urakoze

(Oo-rah-koh-zeh)

Excuse me

Mbabarira

(M-bah-bah-ree-rah)

How much?

Ingahe?

(Een-gah-heh)