Burundi is an emerging tourism powerhouse in the African continent, endowed with luxurious rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, various cultures and unique biodiversity. These enhance sustainable tourism while preserving Burundi’s natural resources, thus placing the country as a key tourist destination for those desiring genuine safaris in the heart of Africa. Burundi is also a landlocked country bordered by Rwanda to the north, Democratic Republic of Congo to the west and Tanzania to the east and south. The country is situated within geographical coordinates of approximately 3.3731^o S latitude and 29.9^o E longitude.

History of Burundi

Burundi’s history is entrenched in their cultural tapestry and multifaceted sociopolitical landscape. For thousands of years, the region was inhabited by the Twa, Hutu and the Tutsi ethnic groups. However, the Twa were the original inhabitants, before the Hutu came in as farmers. The Tutsi pastoralism came in after the two and became the dominant group. In the 15th century, the Mwami kingdom, a centralized monarch emerged and persisted until the European colonialists came in in the late 1800s. The Germans first came in before the Belgians established themselves. The latter significantly disrupted the traditional structures of the indigenous people.

This subsequently led to ethnic conflicts or divisions before Burundi attained its independence in 1962. Ever since, the country has been strained with ethnic conflict, civil wars, and political unrest. Regardless, the Burundians have maintained a rich cultural heritage with ingrained traditions and cultures manifested through music, dance and communal living. Additionally, the Burundian government has been making intensive efforts to promote the tourism sector. This has involved implementing various initiatives aimed at preserving the cultural sites, while expanding on the existing the tourism infrastructure.

Safety and Security in Burundi

Burundi’s tourism industry has faced quite a number of safety and security concerns during periodic political unrest and intermittent violence. Therefore, tourists are urged to always stay informed on matters regarding the prevailing situation and try to be cautious, especially while in urban centers.

Regardless, these challenges are being solved by improving and promoting security through a collaborative effort of the Burundian government and various international organizations.

The Unique Safari Destinations in Burundi

Burundi presents a wide range of tourist sites, showcasing lovely sceneries, cultures and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore and enjoy various activities in the following destinations;

Kibira National Park

Kabira N/park spans around 378.7 square kilometers in the northwestern part of Burundi. Kibira National Park is comprised of diverse wildlife, and plant species. Mammals include chimps, colobus monkeys, baboons, duikers, and bushbucks among others. Bird species include turtle doves, grey parrots, and Rwenzori turacos among others. Tourists to Kibira National Park can enjoy various activities that include nature walks, birdwatching excursions and community tours among others.

Rusizi National Park.

Covering approximately 90 square kilometers is situated in the western part of Burundi and along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is close to the river Rusizi, that offer boat tours and opportunities to spot numerous wildlife species such as hippos, crocodiles, and sitatungas in the wetland ecosystems among others. Bird species include the Sharpe’s pied babblers, red-chested sunbirds, and Baglafetcht weavers among others.

Visitors can also have a unique experience of witnessing the beauty of Lake Tanganyika, which happens to be the deepest in Africa. Some of the top tourist activities in Rusizi National Park include game drive, birdwatching, boat cruise, sport fishing, nature walks and photography.

Ruvubu National Park.

Situated in the northeastern part of Burundi spans 508 square kilometers and is characterized by grasslands, wetlands and riverine forests. These habitats are home to a variety of wildlife species. Mammals include elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, and others.

Bird species recorded here include the papyrus gonoleks, African fish eagles, African openbills, and yellow-billed stocks among others. All the wildlife species offer visitors the best opportunities to engage in game drives, birdwatching, boat safaris and nature walks among others.

Karera Waterfalls.

Karera waterfalls is a breathtakingly beautiful spot near the town of Rutana in the southern region of Burundi. These gushing waterfalls create spectacular views while they tumble down from about 80 meters above to the rocky bottom. Visitors also get the opportunity to observe the lovely backdrop of luxurious vegetation and rocky topography. Visitors can hike to various view points that overlook the waterfalls or even camp in the serenity of the lovely natural surrounding. Birdwatching is another tourist activities that visitors can enjoy.

Gitega National Museum.

This is the largest public museum in Burundi, located in Gitenga, in the central part of the country. The museum was founded under Belgian colonial rule in the 1950s to preserve original Burundian cultural artefacts, that seemed to be declining due to modernity. The items include traditional crafts, royal crafts, royal artifacts and archaeological discoveries among others. These are explored by various tourists to gain insight into Burundi’s cultural legacy and historical significance.

Climate in Burundi and the best safari seasons

Burundi experiences a tropical type of climate that is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet seasons occur from October to April causing heavy rainfall and humid conditions. Conversely, the dry season occurs from May to September, offering cooler temperatures and less rainfall, thus ideal for outdoor activities such as the wildlife viewing safaris. The optimal seasons for traveling to Burundi for safaris is during the dry months, especially from June to August, when weather conditions are suitable for thrilling adventures. Nevertheless, travelers should prepare for the unpredictable rain showers, by packing appropriately, especially during the wetter months.