Burundi – The Switzerland in Africa

The wonderful Burundi is a fascinating country stuck between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Tanzania. After a horrible past of the ethnic conflict, this miniature country with its towering mountains, leisurely beaches, stunning national parks, and the legendary Pierre Livingstone is now managing to pull tourists and increase its pride.

The topographical seat of the nation lies in the core of the continent where its breathtaking landscapes convert the earthly country into a real dreamland, which is why it is also known as the Switzerland in Africa. In addition, the soft experience and pleasant climate make the nation one of the ideal locations for holidays and recreation.

Sadly, much of the upside draws are been sealed for visitors, but the dramatic views and generosity of the people here will seriously not remind you of all that. However, one must be alert on any sign of disputes and must plan its adventures and trips after consulting an appropriate travel agent.

Prime Attractions

Bujumbura

Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, this is the capital port of Burundi where one can explore the history through its extravagant colonial town planning among which one is the Postmaster’s House, wide avenues, and impressive public buildings. Then, we visited the three museums and the Islamic Cultural Center. Among the three museums, the most impressive was the Musee Vivant that exhibits the restored traditional Burundian village with displays of baskets, pottery, and drums. In addition, a part-time zoo is also fun for children here in the museum. Then, there is also a bustling market where we did some window shopping.

Then, in search for some relaxation, we went towards the lakeside that is lined by many cafes and restaurants. If the conditions are right (climate is preferable), one can try out different water sports such as sailing and water skiing. Experience the swimming sport in the Entente Sprotive Restaurant and other beautiful places along the lake.

Next, we headed some 10 km south of the city to see the historic stone commemorating the legendary meeting spot of Stanley and Livingstone.

Lastly, just a few minutes in the outskirts of the city, we explored a best inland beach of the continent offering white sand to soak in sun and azure waters to swim. The public beach of Kajaga near the Hotel Club du Lac Tanganika is famous for its swimming.

For those who do not like water, enjoy yourself at golf course, tennis court, wolley-ball ground, horse riding, bowling, and flying-club.

Kirundo and the Bird Lakes

On the northern trip at 200 km from Bujumbura, this region is full of vast depressions lined with many lakes rich with pleasing sound of birds. Kirundo is simply incredible due to the lakes of Cohoha, Rweru, Kacamirinda, Kanzigiri, and in particular the lake Rwihinda, which is now known as the Birds Lake popular for its ornithological reserve. The birds migrate here form different corners of the world. In whole, the entire area offers grand picturesque views where you can explore the lakes through canoeing.

In and Around Gitega

After Kirundo, to the further north, we reached Gitega that is the second city of the nation where drummers and dancers amuse the tourists. Here, we visited the main attractions of the National Museum exhibiting the past and modern Burundi along with the traditions and the craftware village to watch the production of the crafts situated on the crossroads of the Ngozi-Gitega and Muyinga-Gitega roads.

Gitega is also the hub of different important cultural and scientific Institutes: the exemplary Gitega Art School where ceramics, paintings, and sculptures are produced. One can also spot woven work and beads along with some art work in ceramic ivory and wood carvings.

Resha Center

At 60 kilometers south of Bujumbura, this is a lodging place and the previous Mauss castle owned by the “Source du Nil Hotel” in the capital. It offers a restaurant and some adventures of swimming, skin diving, and camping.

Bururi

After the Resha center and passing through the big forest of monkeys, Bururi is interesting to view the southern Nile Source at Rutovu holding a figurative pyramid erected by the authorities. To visit this source, we first reached the community of Rutovu on Mount Kikizi from where the stream is known by different names after each few miles – Kasenyi, Kasumo, Kigira, Ruvyironza, Ruvubu, Kagera, Lake Victoria, Victoria Nile, Lake Kyoga, and Lake Albert

Muhweza

From Rutovu, we headed to view the Muhweza hot springs and the German Falls in the Mosso area.

Kibira National Park

Located at the apex of the Zaire-Nile, this is the largest and tidy natural land. The park inhabitants are chimpanzees, baboons, cercophitecus (a monkey), and black colobes. There is a long network of tracks and passages stretching over 180 km that is left for the use by guard’s cars and tourists’ motors. With the guards of the park, you can view the mesmerizing draw of the prehistoric forest and the pleasant songs of the birds.

Best Time to Visit

As such, there is no specific period for this.

Accommodations

• Hotel Star Lodge at the capital town’s centre
• Saga Residence Hotel at the capital town’s centre
• Hotel Safari Gate (Hotel) around the Lake Tanganyika
• Hotel Botanika at the capital town’s centre
• Hotel Amahoro at the capital town’s centre

Restaurants in the Capital

• Entente Sportive
• Monastere
• Cercle Hellenique
• Cremaillere

Tips

• The capital city is not that safe by night. Therefore, it becomes necessary to catch a taxi after sunset. In spite of arrival of UN peacekeepers, be alert as robberies still prevail in the region.
• Any tourist excursion can be undertaken in one day’s time and it can be easily culminated at a drive back to Bujumbura
• You can explore maximum alluring destinations through roadways