Things To Do
in Cankuzo

Cankuzo is a picturesque town located in eastern Burundi, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled among rolling hills and lush forests, it serves as a gateway to the beautiful Lake Tanganyika. The region is inhabited by friendly locals who are proud of their traditions and customs.

Visitors can explore vibrant markets, experience traditional music and dance, and enjoy the serene natural beauty that surrounds the town.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cankuzo
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour to the nearby hills for breathtaking views and a chance to learn about local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Burundian cuisine followed by a cultural dance performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit a coffee plantation to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the finest brews.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon by Lake Tanganyika, where you can relax on the beach or engage in water activities.

evening
:

Dine at a lakeside restaurant and enjoy the sunset over the water, followed by a leisurely stroll along the shore.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🚕Taxi ride within town$2
🛒Bottle of water$0.50
🛏️Hotel per night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes
  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Basic healthcare facilities
  • Language barrier for non-Kirundi speakers
  • "Amakuru?" - How are you?
  • "Urakoze" - Thank you
  • "Ndagukunda" - I love you
  • "Ntakibazo" - No problem
  • "Aho uva?" - Where are you from?

Places to Visit in Cankuzo

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Tanganyika

Capture stunning sunsets and panoramic views of the lake, which is renowned for its crystal-clear waters.

Cankuzo Hills

The rolling hills surrounding Cankuzo provide a perfect backdrop for landscape photography, especially during the golden hour.

Local Market

The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the market are perfect for street photography, showcasing local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cankuzo

Cankuzo offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Burundi. Local dishes are made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, often featuring staples like beans, cassava, and fish from Lake Tanganyika.

Cankuzo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Irebe

A traditional dish made with cassava leaves, often served with rice or plantains.

Must-Try!

Brochettes

Skewered meat, typically goat or beef, grilled to perfection and served with a spicy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cankuzo Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts, offering a taste of everyday life.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cankuzo experiences a tropical highland climate with two main seasons: a rainy season and a dry season. Average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F) throughout the year. The rainy season occurs from October to April, while the dry season lasts from May to September. Humidity levels can be high during the rainy months, but the cooler temperatures during the dry season make it a pleasant time to visit.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greetings are important in Burundian culture. A handshake followed by a friendly smile is customary.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites, to show respect for local customs.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is a cultural norm. Use polite language and gestures when interacting with older individuals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cankuzo is generally considered safe for travelers, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables secure. Stay informed about local regulations and customs, and always respect the local community. It's also a good idea to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Tipping in Cankuzo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A 10% tip is customary in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is the primary method of payment. ATMs are available, but it’s wise to carry sufficient cash, especially in rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (May to September)

This is the best time to visit, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.

Rainy Season (October to April)

Expect heavy rains, especially in the afternoons. While the landscape becomes lush, some roads may become impassable.

Cool Season (June to August)

Temperatures can drop, particularly at night. It’s advisable to bring warmer clothing for evening outings.

Harvest Season (March to April)

Witness the local harvest festival, where you can experience traditional music and dance while sampling fresh produce.

Nightlife Guide

Cankuzo at Night

Cankuzo offers a modest nightlife scene primarily centered around local bars and cafes. While there are no large nightclubs, visitors can enjoy live music, especially traditional Burundian drumming and dance performances at local venues. The atmosphere is generally friendly and safe, making it a good place for travelers to relax and socialize with locals.

Hiking in Cankuzo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cankuzo Trail

A scenic trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Kigwena Nature Reserve Trail

Located nearby, this trail offers a chance to explore diverse wildlife and plant species in a protected environment.

Airports

How to reach Cankuzo by plane.

Bujumbura International Airport (BJM)

Located approximately 120 km from Cankuzo, this is the main international airport in Burundi, serving regional and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cankuzo is a small town that is quite walkable, with most attractions, markets, and restaurants located within a reasonable distance from each other. The streets are generally safe for pedestrians, but it's advisable to be cautious of traffic and to walk in groups, especially at night.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hutu

The Hutu are the majority ethnic group in Burundi, traditionally engaged in agriculture and known for their vibrant culture and community life.

Tutsi

The Tutsi are the second largest ethnic group, historically associated with cattle herding and also contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Cankuzo, with local teams playing in community leagues and passionate fans supporting them.

Running

Running is a common pastime, with many locals participating in informal races and jogging around the scenic areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cankuzo is generally light, with most locals using bicycles or walking to get around. Public transportation options include shared taxis and buses that connect to larger cities. Road conditions vary, and some rural roads may be unpaved or challenging to navigate, especially during the rainy season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cankuzo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adjusted to accommodate vegetarians, but it's advisable to inform the chef of any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Cankuzo are limited, with a few local clinics available for basic medical needs. For serious health issues, traveling to the capital, Gitega, or Bujumbura may be necessary. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and to bring necessary medications.

Discover Burundi

Read more in our Burundi 2025 Travel Guide.

Burundi Travel Guide