The Republic of Burundi is a landlocked country in Central and East Africa. The total land area covers 27,834 square kilometres.
650,000 of these inhabitants live in Bujumbura, the country’s capital. Most inhabitants speak Kirundi, but English and Kiswahili are also widely spoken. In addition to these local languages, French is also an official language. The main religion in Burundi is Christianity, with about 65% of the population being Catholic. The country also has some Protestants, a small Muslim minority, and 20% of the population are followers of traditional African religions.
Highlights in Burundi
Burundi’s main attractions include the ancient royal cities of Gitega and Muramvya. These cities are home to many cultural landmarks that bear witness to their former significance. In the capital, Bujumbura, there are several museums and historic buildings dating back to 1899, when Germany established a colonial military base in Burundi. Another highlight in Burundi is Lake Tanganyika. The lake has many beaches, such as Saga Beach, which, along with others, are among the most beautiful beaches in Central Africa.
Burundi also has several national parks. However, due to the long-running civil wars, wildlife is no longer as diverse. In the country’s national parks, visitors can spot crocodiles, antelopes or hippopotamuses in their natural habitat.
Location and Climate in Burundi
Burundi shares borders with the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Rwanda to the north, and Tanzania to the east. The border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo is largely formed by Lake Tanganyika. The country has a predominantly tropical savanna climate. Unlike many other equatorial countries, the climate is significantly milder, largely due to the country’s elevation. Burundi ranges from 772 metres above sea level at its lowest point to 2,670 metres at its highest.
The climate is also shaped by the rainy and dry seasons. The rainy seasons last from around September to December and from March to May. The two dry seasons are in January and February, and from June to August. The average annual temperature in Burundi is 24°C. In the highlands, however, the climate is significantly cooler, with average temperatures of around 18°C. Generally, Burundi is best visited during the dry seasons, as humidity is particularly high during the rainy seasons.
Entry and Arrival
Burundi’s only international airport is located about twelve kilometres from the capital, Bujumbura. There are no direct flights from Europe to this airport. From the airport, onward travel can be arranged by taxi. While it is possible to enter Burundi by car or bus from some neighbouring countries, the land borders are considered unsafe for tourists.
German citizens require a visa and a passport for entry for tourist purposes. Children travelling with them also need a passport. The visa must be applied for in advance at the Embassy of Burundi in Berlin. It is not possible to obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. Travellers must also present proof of a valid yellow fever vaccination. This requirement applies to all travellers aged one year and older upon entry.
