- Attractions in Burundi
- Language
- Kirundi, a Bantu language, serves as the heartbeat of the nation, being the native language spoken by the majority of the Burundian population. Alongside Kirundi, French holds an official status and is widely used in government, education, and media, stemming from Burundi's history as a Belgian colony. Swahili also finds its place, especially in commerce and in areas bordering Tanzania. While English was introduced into the education system and is gradually gaining ground, its acceptance and fluency among the general population remain limited. As such, travelers might find English spoken in major hotels and by those in the tourism industry, but a basic understanding of French or Kirundi can enhance the travel experience significantly, offering deeper interactions with the local population and a richer understanding of the country's cultural fabric.
- Best time to visit
- The best time to visit Burundi is during the dry seasons, which run from June to August and from December to January. During these periods, the weather is predominantly sunny and warm, making it ideal for exploring the country's stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. The dry season also offers the most comfortable conditions for travel, as roads are more passable and the risk of malaria is lower. Whether you're interested in hiking through the Kibira National Park, enjoying the beaches of Lake Tanganyika, or exploring the vibrant markets and cultural sites, these months provide the optimal climate for experiencing all that Burundi has to offer.
- Festivals
- Date: JulyFestival name: Burundi Independence DayBurundi Independence Day commemorates the country's independence from Belgian colonial rule in 1962. Celebrated with parades, cultural performances, and patriotic displays, it fosters national pride and unity among Burundians.
- Date: AugustFestival name: UmuganuroUmuganuro is a traditional harvest festival celebrating the first fruits of the season. It involves rituals, feasting, and community gatherings, symbolizing gratitude and the importance of agriculture in Burundian culture.
- Local cuisine
- Ubugali
- A staple dish in Burundi, Ubugali is a thick porridge made from maize or cassava flour. It is typically prepared by boiling water and gradually adding the flour until the mixture becomes thick and smooth, often served as an accompaniment to meat or vegetable stews.
- Ibiharage
- This is a simple yet flavorful dish made with beans, which are a common ingredient in Burundian cuisine. Beans are soaked, boiled until tender, and then simmered with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes palm oil, creating a hearty and nutritious meal.
- Isombe
- Made from cassava leaves, Isombe is a rich and creamy dish. The cassava leaves are pounded and then cooked with ingredients like peanut butter, palm oil, and sometimes fish or meat, resulting in a dense, flavorful stew.
- Umubirizi
- This dish features fish, given Burundi's access to fresh fish from Lake Tanganyika. Fish are cleaned, seasoned, and either grilled or fried, often served with lemon wedges and a side of Ubugali or boiled plantains.
- Mukeke
- A specific kind of fish found in Lake Tanganyika, Mukeke is highly prized in Burundian cuisine. It can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, boiling, or frying, and is known for its delicate flavor.
- Ibidunduro
- These are sweet potato dumplings, a popular snack or side dish. Sweet potatoes are boiled, mashed, mixed with flour to form a dough, shaped into balls or dumplings, and then boiled again until they float to the surface.
- Banana Wine
- A traditional Burundian beverage, banana wine is made by fermenting ripe bananas with a starter of sorghum flour or old banana wine. The mixture is left to ferment for several days to a few weeks, resulting in a sweet and slightly tangy alcoholic drink.
- Ikivuguto
- A traditional fermented milk similar to kefir, Ikivuguto is made by leaving fresh cow's milk to ferment in a calabash or other container, producing a tangy, thick beverage that is often consumed as a refreshing drink or used as a sauce.
- Packing
When packing for a trip to Burundi, especially during the dry season, prioritize lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in warm temperatures. Include a mix of long sleeves and pants to protect against mosquitoes and the sun, as well as a sturdy pair of walking shoes for exploration. Don't forget a high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, and a wide-brimmed hat for further protection. Since evenings can be cooler, bring a light jacket or sweater. Also, pack a swimsuit for lake activities and a reliable raincoat, as unexpected showers can occur. For those planning to hike or visit national parks, binoculars and a camera are must-haves to capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes. Lastly, ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including health insurance that covers the area.
- Currency
Burundi's official currency is the Burundian Franc (BIF). The currency comes in a variety of denominations, including coins and banknotes. Coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 50 Francs, whereas banknotes come in denominations ranging from 10 to 10,000 Francs. While traveling in Burundi, finding ATMs in major cities and towns is possible, but they are less common in rural areas. It's important to note that ATMs may not always be reliable and could have withdrawal limits. Credit card acceptance is limited primarily to upscale hotels and some businesses in the capital, Bujumbura. Therefore, carrying sufficient cash, especially in smaller denominations for everyday expenses, is advisable for convenience and to avoid potential issues with card payments.
- Transport
Burundi offers a modest transportation system tailored to the needs of both locals and international visitors. The country is primarily served by Bujumbura International Airport, which acts as the main gateway for foreign travelers, connecting Burundi to several African cities and international destinations. Within the country, transportation options include buses, which are the most common and cost-effective way to travel between cities, and taxis for more direct and private journeys. Additionally, motorcycle taxis are widely used for short distances and are an affordable alternative. It's important for travelers to negotiate fares before starting their journey to avoid misunderstandings. For those looking to explore more remote areas, hiring a private vehicle might be necessary due to the limited reach of public transport. Navigating Burundi's transportation system requires a bit of patience and flexibility, as schedules can be unpredictable and infrastructure varies across the country.
- Emergency
In Burundi, travelers should be aware of cultural taboos such as avoiding public displays of affection, not pointing at people with your finger, refraining from discussing political opinions publicly, and always asking for permission before taking photos of people or properties. The universal emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services in Burundi is 112, and it's important for visitors to also know the location of their country's embassy or consulate for any urgent assistance.
- Power socket
In Burundi, the standard voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Travelers will encounter two types of power sockets, type C and type E. Type C is the standard "Euro" plug with two round pins, whereas type E is similar but features an additional grounding pin. For visitors coming from countries where the standard voltage is between 100-127V (such as the United States and Canada), a voltage converter will be necessary to safely use electronic devices. Additionally, a plug adapter may be required if the plug type of your device does not match the socket type in Burundi.
