Bururi, the hidden gem of Burundi

Bururi is a town located in the southern part of Burundi, known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Despite being less known for tourism, this little town has a lot to offer to any type of traveler, from adventure seekers to nature lovers. In this article, we will showcase the top 10 places to visit in Bururi and the 5 places to avoid.

Places to Visit

1. Rurubu River

The Rurubu River is one of the main attractions of Bururi, offering a refreshing and peaceful environment to spend the day. The clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, and the surroundings are abundant with greenery and wildlife.

2. Nyanza Lac

Nyanza Lac is a beautiful lake located near the town of Bururi. Its crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the area is surrounded by impressive mountains and lush forests. A boat ride across the lake is a must-do activity for all visitors.

3. Karema Beach

Karema Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Burundi, located near Bururi. Its golden sands and clear blue waters offer the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring. The beach is also an excellent spot for kayaking, sailing, and other water activities.

4. Gishora Drum Sanctuary

The Gishora Drum Sanctuary is a cultural site located in Bururi that showcases the traditional Burundi drumming culture. The sanctuary offers a unique experience to visitors, including live drumming performances, and visitors can even learn to play the drums themselves.

5. Bururi Forest Nature Reserve

Bururi Forest Nature Reserve is a protected area and one of the last remaining untouched forests in Burundi. The reserve offers a unique opportunity to see a variety of rare plant and animal species, including chimpanzees and monkeys.

6. La Pierre de Stanley et Livingstone

La Pierre de Stanley et Livingstone is a historical monument located in Bururi, commemorating the visit of explorer Henry Morton Stanley and David Livingstone. The monument offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

7. Mount Bizoka

Mount Bizoka is the second-highest mountain in Burundi, with its peak standing at 2,630 meters above sea level. The mountain offers a challenging hiking experience to visitors, with stunning views from the top.

8. The Source of the Nile River

The Source of the Nile River is a spring in Bururi that marks the beginning of the mighty Nile River. The spring is surrounded by beautiful greenery, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbank.

9. Tea Plantations

Burundi is known for its high-quality tea, and visiting the tea plantations in Bururi is a great way to experience the local culture. The rolling hills and greenery of the tea plantations offer stunning views, and visitors can even taste some of the local teas.

10. Bururi Market

Bururi Market is a bustling local market where visitors can experience the local way of life. The market sells a variety of goods, including fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional clothing.

Places to Avoid

1. Cibitoke Province

Cibitoke Province is located in the northern part of Burundi, near the border with Rwanda. The area has a history of political instability and violence, and it is best to avoid traveling to this area.

2. Bujumbura

While Bujumbura is the capital of Burundi, it is also known for its high crime rate, and visitors should take extra precautions when traveling to this area.

3. Uvira, Democratic Republic of Congo

Uvira is a town located across the border in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and it is best to avoid traveling to this area due to political instability and violence.

4. Kigoma, Tanzania

Kigoma is a town located across the border in Tanzania, and while it is a popular tourist destination, it is best to avoid this area due to the risk of armed robbery and violence.

5. Northern Burundi

The northern part of Burundi has a history of ethnic tensions and violence, and it is best to avoid traveling to this area.

Overview about Bururi