Road Trips in Burundi

While sightseeing around Burundi, it's worth heading for the country's capital, Bujumbura. Among the most interesting attractions of this place, you'll find the Muslim Culture Centre and Prince Louis Rwagasore Mausoleum. Visiting tourists will also have three museums and a few beaches at their disposal. You can also take a trip to see Lake Tanganyika and watch hippopotamuses in their natural habitat. 

If you feel that the capital isn't enough in terms of attractions, you can also direct your steps to Gitega and its National Museum of Gitega or Gishora Museum, where you can watch stunning performances combined with dancing, music, and playing drums.  Interestingly, if you're lucky enough, you'll have an opportunity to play the instrument yourself!

Burundi, or rather its parks and natural reserves, is home to various animal species. You'll find the Kibira National Park and the Ruvubu National Park among the most scenic places on Burundi's map. Each of them is a perfect place to rest for lovers of natural wonders. 

Suggested Road Trips in Burundi

• Lake Tanganyika Road Trip: Start: Bujumbura, End: Kigoma, Tanzania This road trip takes visitors along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, offering stunning views of the lake and its surroundings. Visitors can start their trip in Bujumbura, the capital city of Burundi, and head towards Kigoma, a town in Tanzania that sits on the shores of the lake. Along the way, visitors can stop at local villages, explore the area's stunning landscapes, and get a sense of the local way of life.

• National Parks and Reserves Road Trip: Start: Bujumbura, End: Kibira National Park This road trip takes visitors to one of Burundi's many national parks and nature reserves, offering a chance to explore the country's unique wildlife and landscapes. Visitors can start their trip in Bujumbura and head towards Kibira National Park, one of the largest and most diverse national parks in the country. This road trip offers a chance to see elephants, lions, and many different species of birds in their natural habitats.

• Traditional Villages and Markets Road Trip: Start: Bujumbura, End: Gitega A road trip to explore Burundi's traditional villages and markets is a great way to learn about the country's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can start their trip in Bujumbura and head towards Gitega, the second-largest city in Burundi. Along the way, visitors can explore local communities, visit traditional markets, and learn about the country's unique traditions, food, and history. This road trip offers a chance to experience the real Burundi and get a sense of what life is like in this fascinating country.

Travelling around Burundi is a huge challenge, especially for those who opt for a rented car. Roads around Burundi are usually in a dire state so if you've already decided to direct your steps to a car rental company, choose a 4x4 off-road vehicle. It's also worth equipping yourself with a few spare tyres. 

Burundi is considered a dangerous country and all of that is due to assaults, the risk of terrorism, and internal conflicts. In order to ensure your passengers appropriate safety, it's vital to remember to lock the doors and to travel in larger convoys. Don't be surprised if you don't come across any road signs for a longer period of time - it is a common phenomenon on local roads. For most Europeans, the fact that Burundi follows right-hand traffic will be a great advantage. 

When taking a road trip in Burundi, there are several things to be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Road conditions: Many of the roads in Burundi are in poor condition and can be challenging to navigate, particularly during the rainy season. It is important to check road conditions before embarking on a road trip and to be prepared for slow driving conditions.

• Safety concerns: Burundi has a high crime rate, particularly in urban areas. It is important to be cautious when driving and to avoid traveling alone, especially at night.

• Health concerns: It is recommended to take preventive measures against malaria, as well as other illnesses that may be common in the region.

• Language barriers: English is not widely spoken in Burundi, so it may be helpful to learn some basic phrases in French or Kirundi.

• Respect for local customs: Burundi has a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to be respectful of local customs, traditions, and beliefs while on a road trip.

• Vehicle requirements: It is important to ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and equipped with the necessary supplies, such as a spare tire, jack, and basic tools.

• Travel permits: Some areas in Burundi require travelers to obtain a permit in advance. It is important to check the requirements for each area you plan to visit and to obtain the necessary permits before embarking on your road trip.

By being aware of these factors, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Burundi.

The best time of year to take a road trip in Burundi depends on several factors, including the weather and road conditions. Here are some things to consider:

• Rainy season: Burundi experiences a rainy season from February to May, which can make road conditions difficult and increase the risk of flooding. If you plan to take a road trip during this time, it is important to be prepared for slow driving conditions and to take extra precautions.

• Dry season: The dry season from June to September offers better road conditions and less risk of flooding. However, this is also the peak travel season, so it may be more crowded and more expensive to travel during this time.

• Temperatures: Temperatures in Burundi can be hot and humid, particularly during the rainy season. If you are sensitive to heat, it may be best to plan your road trip for the cooler months, such as June to August.

Ultimately, the best time to take a road trip in Burundi will depend on your personal preferences and the specific itinerary you have planned. If you are concerned about road conditions or safety, it is always best to check with local authorities before embarking on your trip.

Burundi is a small country located in East Africa and offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path travel experience. The cost of a road trip in Burundi can vary depending on your travel style and preferences.

In terms of accommodation, there are options available to suit different budgets. Basic guesthouses and hostels are affordable and can cost around $10-20 per night. Mid-range hotels can cost around $30-50 per night, and luxury hotels can cost upwards of $100 per night.

Food and drink in Burundi is generally quite affordable, with many traditional Burundian dishes available at reasonable prices. You can expect to pay around $5-10 for a basic meal at a local restaurant or street food stall.

When it comes to transportation, renting a car can be a good option for a road trip in Burundi. Rental car prices can vary depending on the type of car you choose and the rental company you use. Generally, you can expect to pay around $30-50 per day to rent a basic car, with prices increasing for more luxurious or high-end options.

In addition to car rental, you can also consider using public transportation to get around. The bus network in Burundi is extensive and affordable, with fares usually ranging from $1-5 per journey.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in Burundi will depend on your travel style and the type of activities you plan to undertake. However, as a developing country, Burundi can be a relatively affordable destination compared to some other African countries.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that may be helpful for a road trip in Burundi:

• "Bradt Travel Guide Burundi" by Philip Briggs. This guidebook provides an in-depth overview of Burundi's history, culture, and attractions and practical information for travelers, such as accommodation and restaurant recommendations.

• "Lonely Planet East Africa" by Lonely Planet. This guidebook covers several countries in East Africa, including Burundi, and provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, culture, and natural beauty.

• "Burundi Insight Guide" by Insight Guides. This guidebook is produced by Insight Guides and provides a detailed overview of Burundi's attractions and activities, including national parks, cultural sites, and adventure sports.

• For road maps, you can check out the "Burundi Road Map" by ITM Maps, which provides detailed maps of the country's roads, highways, and major attractions. You can also find online maps from Google Maps or other online mapping services.

Remember to always double-check information from different sources and to take note of any changes or updates to road conditions or attractions. Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that Burundi is a developing country with limited infrastructure, and road conditions may not be as good as those in more developed countries.