Burundi National Parks and Travel Guide

Burundi is one of East Africa’s least-visited countries, which is exactly its appeal. This small, hilly nation sits between Rwanda, Tanzania and Congo, on the north-eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika. Its national parks protect chimpanzees, hippos and rare birds, and its royal drumming tradition is recognised by UNESCO.

Most travellers visit Burundi as part of a longer journey through Rwanda and Uganda, such as our 7-day Rwanda, Uganda and Burundi tour.

Kibira National Park

Kibira protects montane rainforest in the north-west, continuous with Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest. It shelters chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys and many Albertine Rift birds. Tea plantations surround much of the park.

Rusizi National Park

Just outside the capital, Bujumbura, Rusizi National Park protects the Rusizi River delta where it enters Lake Tanganyika. Boat trips reveal hippos, crocodiles and abundant water birds, including the occasional shoebill.

Ruvubu National Park

Ruvubu is Burundi’s largest park, a remote area of savannah and riverine forest along the Ruvubu River. It is home to buffalo, hippos, antelope and primates, and it sees very few visitors.

Lake Tanganyika and Bujumbura

Lake Tanganyika is one of the deepest and oldest lakes in the world. Bujumbura’s sandy beaches are a relaxed place to unwind, swim and enjoy fresh fish at lakeside restaurants.

Culture: The Royal Drummers of Burundi

Burundian drumming is a powerful ritual dance once performed for the royal court. At the Gishora Drum Sanctuary near Gitega, drummers perform the tradition in its historic home. Nearby, you can also visit the Karera waterfalls and the southernmost source of the Nile at Rutovu, marked by a small pyramid.

Plan a Burundi Extension

Burundi combines naturally with Rwanda and Uganda. Travel conditions change, so we check the latest advice before every trip. Contact us to plan a Burundi extension, or explore all our East Africa destinations.