Burundi

The Land of Hills
and Resilience

Flag of Burundi

Burundi, a small landlocked country in East Africa, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and resilient spirit. Home to iconic landmarks like Lake Tanganyika, Kibira National Park, and the capital city Gitega, Burundi offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The country's geography features rolling hills and plateaus.

Burundian culture is deeply rooted in traditions, reflected in its vibrant music, dance, and art, with the Royal Drummers of Burundi being particularly famous. The cuisine features staple foods like beans, cassava, and plantains. Known for its warm hospitality and community spirit, Burundi presents a captivating destination that combines historical significance with natural wonders.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is required for entry into Burundi.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Burundi.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: No countries are fully visa-exempt for Burundi. All travelers require a visa unless otherwise specified.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Burundi, either through an embassy or via the e-Visa system.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry visas from the East African Community (EAC) countries (e.g., Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda) may use them for entry if previously used in the issuing country.
  • No specific provisions exist for Schengen, US, or UK visa holders; a Burundi-specific visa is required.
  • Holders of residence permits from EAC countries may enter with additional documentation but still require a visa.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Burundi using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30 days (extendable to 90 days with approval). Can be single or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days. Valid for one year, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa durations vary; tourist stays are typically capped at 30 days unless extended.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Burundian embassy.
  • COVID-19 measures: Check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health.
Toll

Driving in Burundi

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Burundi has no official toll roads. Major routes like RN1 (Gitega to Bujumbura) are publicly funded but may require maintenance fees in the future.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Burundi Road Agency.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Burundi Franc (BIF) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in Burundi

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60 km/h
    • Highways: 80 km/h (e.g., RN1)
  • Road conditions: Poor outside major cities; unpaved roads and flooding are common.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Burundi has no vignette system, but road taxes may apply at borders—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Roads can be hazardous due to poor maintenance, livestock, and unpredictable driving habits.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable in rural areas; carry a physical map.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 117 for police or 118 for medical emergencies (response times vary).

Useful Links

Burundi Currency

The official currency of Burundi is the Burundi Franc (BIF).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 100, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000 BIF
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50 BIF
  • Symbol: FBu

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, Bujumbura Gitega International Airport, and licensed forex bureaus.
  • ATMs are limited but available in Bujumbura and Gitega for direct BIF withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially outside urban areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are rarely accepted, limited to major hotels and businesses in Bujumbura.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry sufficient cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when exchanging or using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Burundi website: https://www.brb.bi/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Burundi

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Burundi, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Severe penalties for possession or trafficking, including life imprisonment. No tolerance for small amounts.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is illegal and punishable by fines or detention.
    • Smoking is banned in public buildings and transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing the 1993-2005 civil war or ethnic tensions (Hutu-Tutsi issues).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 2 years in prison. Discretion is advised.
  • Photography: Prohibited near government buildings, military sites, or police stations. Ask permission for photos of people.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, firearms, and counterfeit goods.
  • Endangered species products (e.g., ivory).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Burundi Tourism Office or local police stations.

Beach Access

  • Lake Tanganyika beaches are public; no specific legal distance is mandated, but access is generally free.

Key Resources

Burundi Travel Safety

Burundi is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Burundi.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) occurs in Bujumbura markets and bus stations. Violent crime against tourists is rare but possible near borders.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Generally safe in urban areas; avoid walking alone at night in rural zones.

Road Safety

  • Driving is risky due to poor roads, lack of signage, and reckless drivers.
  • Avoid night driving outside cities due to limited lighting and banditry risks.
  • Helmets (for motorbikes) and seat belts are mandatory but enforcement is lax.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is unsafe; use bottled water.
    • Eat well-cooked food to avoid diarrhea or cholera.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever (mandatory for entry), malaria prophylaxis.
    • COVID-19: Vaccination or testing may be required—check updates.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria is widespread; use repellent and bed nets.
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk unless climbing Mount Heha (2,670m).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Limited quality; private clinics in Bujumbura (e.g., Kira Hospital) are better equipped. Rural care is basic.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications.
  • Insurance: Get coverage with medical evacuation options.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (patchy service).
  • Police: 117 | Ambulance: 118 | Fire: 119.
  • Tourist Assistance: Contact local police or your embassy.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural travel; confirm insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use guides for remote areas like Kibira National Park.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid political topics.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but monitor in Bujumbura during dry seasons.

Key Links

Flying to Burundi

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