Burundi

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Burundi's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Bujumbura and Lake Tanganyika Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Bujumbura and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, enjoying the tranquil waters and refreshing breeze. Capture the beautiful sunrise over the lake as locals begin their day.

afternoon
:

Visit the Livingstone-Stanley Monument and learn about the historic meeting between explorers Henry Morton Stanley and David Livingstone. Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant offering fresh fish dishes. Spend some time relaxing on the beach or swimming in the clear waters.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Burundian dinner at a local restaurant featuring drumming and dance performances. Take a calm evening stroll through Bujumbura’s central market to experience local life. Wind down with a drink overlooking the lake under the stars.

day 2
Discover Bujumbura’s Culture and History
morning
:

Explore the National Museum of Gitega to understand Burundi’s rich cultural heritage and history. Walk through the city’s vibrant streets and visit local artisan shops selling crafts and textiles. Stop for coffee at a popular café and watch the city come alive.

afternoon
:

Tour the Russian Market to shop for souvenirs including traditional fabrics, jewelry, and wood carvings. Have lunch at a café specializing in regional cuisine. Visit the Ruzizi Market to see bustling trade and interact with friendly vendors.

evening
:

Attend a local music or dance performance to immerse yourself in Burundian culture. Try street food specialties like grilled meat skewers or fried plantains. Enjoy the cooler evening air while strolling along the lakeshore.

day 3
Hiking in Kibira National Park
morning
:

Travel to Kibira National Park and prepare for a guided hike through one of Burundi’s lush rainforest reserves. Enjoy birdwatching and spotting diverse wildlife in the early morning light. Learn about the park’s conservation efforts from your guide.

afternoon
:

Continue trekking along peaceful forest trails, stopping for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Visit waterfalls and observe the unique flora and fauna of the park. Engage with local communities and learn about their connection to the forest.

evening
:

Return to your lodge and relax after a full day of hiking. Share stories and photos with fellow travelers over dinner. Experience the tranquil sounds of the forest at night from your accommodation.

day 4
Gitega Royal Palace and Cultural Sites
morning
:

Visit the Royal Palace in Gitega, the historic seat of Burundi’s monarchy. Explore the palace grounds and learn about the kingdom’s traditions and governance. Take photographs of the impressive royal architecture and artifacts.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Burundian dishes. Visit the Gitega Museum to see more cultural exhibits and local artworks. Walk through the town to experience its vibrant atmosphere and meet local artisans.

evening
:

Attend a storytelling session where elders share Burundian myths and legends. Enjoy a quiet dinner sampling regional specialties. Reflect on the day’s cultural discoveries under the starry sky.

day 5
Boat Trip on Lake Tanganyika and Village Visit
morning
:

Embark on a boat trip across Lake Tanganyika to admire the stunning scenery and perhaps spot endemic fish species. Relax on deck as you take in the panoramic views of the shoreline and distant hills. Visit fishing villages along the way to observe traditional livelihoods.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch on a lakeside beach. Participate in a cultural exchange with local villagers, learning about their customs and daily routines. Explore hidden coves and pristine beaches accessible only by boat.

evening
:

Return to Bujumbura as the sun sets, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Dine at a waterfront restaurant and savor the catch of the day. Experience the calmness of the lake at night before heading back to your accommodation.

day 6
Coffee Plantation Tour and Tasting
morning
:

Visit a local coffee plantation on the outskirts of Bujumbura and discover the coffee production process from bean to cup. Walk among the coffee plants and interact with farmers. Learn about sustainable and traditional farming methods used in Burundi.

afternoon
:

Participate in a coffee tasting session to appreciate the unique flavors of Burundian coffee. Enjoy lunch at the plantation featuring fresh, local ingredients. Explore the surrounding countryside and take photographs of the lush landscape.

evening
:

Return to your hotel and freshen up. Head out to a cozy café to enjoy a cup of the coffee you tasted earlier while soaking in the evening vibe. Reflect on the journey and the importance of coffee in the local economy.

day 7
Visit Rusizi National Park and Wildlife Spotting
morning
:

Travel to Rusizi National Park for a guided safari experience. Observe hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species along the Rusizi River in the early morning light. Capture photographs of the park’s unique wetland habitat.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch inside the park surrounded by nature. Continue exploring different zones of the park to spot antelopes, monkeys, and other wildlife. Learn about conservation challenges in the area from your guide.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation and rest after an exciting day. Enjoy a hearty dinner while sharing your wildlife encounters with fellow travelers. Relax under the stars and listen to the sounds of the wilderness.

day 8
Explore Ngozi and Surrounding Areas
morning
:

Travel to Ngozi, a city in northern Burundi, and visit local markets to experience daily life. Explore the rolling hills and scenic landscapes surrounding the area. Meet local communities and learn about their agricultural practices.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by local families. Visit nearby natural attractions, such as waterfalls or hot springs, for some relaxation and sightseeing. Take time to hike and appreciate the peaceful environment.

evening
:

Return to your lodge and enjoy dinner featuring regional specialties. Engage in cultural exchange activities such as drumming or storytelling. Unwind and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

day 9
Chutes de la Karera Waterfalls and Nature Walk
morning
:

Head to Chutes de la Karera to witness one of Burundi’s most breathtaking waterfalls. Take a nature walk through the surrounding forested trails. Enjoy the fresh air and lush greenery while spotting native plants and birds.

afternoon
:

Picnic near the waterfall and swim in the natural pools if conditions allow. Learn from your guide about the local ecosystem and the importance of preserving such natural wonders. Relax and take photos of the stunning landscape.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation and refresh. Dine at a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine. Share your experiences of the day’s natural beauty over dinner.

day 10
Departure from Bujumbura
morning
:

Spend your final morning in Burundi doing some last-minute shopping or visiting any favorite spots in Bujumbura. Have a leisurely breakfast at your hotel overlooking the city or lake. Pack your belongings and prepare for departure.

afternoon
:

Transfer to Bujumbura International Airport for your flight home. Reflect on the diverse experiences and warm hospitality you encountered during your stay. If time permits, enjoy a final meal or coffee in the airport lounge.

evening
:

Board your flight and begin your journey home, carrying unforgettable memories of Burundi's rich culture, natural beauty, and friendly people.