Burundi

All travelers must present a valid passport to enter Burundi. Visa requirements vary based on nationality:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of some East African Community (EAC) member countries may enter Burundi without a visa.

Visa on Arrival and eVisa

Burundi offers a visa on arrival for some nationalities and also allows travelers to apply for an eVisa before arrival for short-term stays related to tourism or business.

Visa Required

Citizens of most countries will need to obtain a visa before entering Burundi. A valid passport with at least six months of validity is required.

Note: Visa regulations are subject to change, so travelers should confirm entry requirements with their local Burundian embassy or consulate before travel.

Burundi generally requires all travelers to present a valid passport for entry. ID cards are not accepted for entry unless you are a citizen of an Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member country, who may be allowed entry with a valid ID card.

Toll Roads in Burundi

Burundi does not have a widespread system of toll roads. Most roads are free to use, although some highways connecting major cities may require small tolls for maintenance purposes.

Toll Payment Methods:

• Cash: Tolls can be paid in Burundian francs (BIF) at toll booths.

Driving Tips in Burundi:

• Right-Hand Driving: In Burundi, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Speed Limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h, rural roads: 80 km/h, highways: 100 km/h.
• Road Conditions: While major roads between cities are in decent condition, many secondary and rural roads are poorly maintained and can be difficult to navigate, especially during the rainy season.

Weather in Burundi

Burundi has a tropical highland climate, with generally moderate temperatures due to its elevation, although there are significant seasonal and regional variations.

Dry Season (June to September)

During the dry season, temperatures are mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with little to no rainfall.

Wet Season (October to May)

The wet season brings heavy rains, with the heaviest downpours occurring from March to May. Temperatures remain warm, typically between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F).

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (June to September) is the best time to visit Burundi, offering pleasant weather and better road conditions.
• Prepare for Rainy Weather: If traveling during the rainy season, be prepared for potential road closures or delays due to heavy rainfall, particularly in rural areas.

Currency in Burundi

The official currency of Burundi is the Burundian Franc (BIF), symbolized as FBu or BIF.

Banknotes and Coins

The Burundian Franc is available in banknotes of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 BIF. Coins are less frequently used.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available at banks, hotels, and official exchange offices in major cities. The US dollar and Euro are widely accepted for exchange.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are not commonly accepted in Burundi, except in some high-end hotels and establishments in Bujumbura. It is advisable to carry cash for most transactions.

Travel Tips

• Cash Availability: Ensure you have sufficient cash (BIF) for daily expenses, especially when traveling outside of major cities.
• Exchange Leftover Currency: The Burundian Franc is difficult to exchange outside of the country, so it is recommended to exchange any remaining currency before departure.