Burundi

Although the situation has cooled in recent years, Burundi is a powder keg that could potentially explode at any moment. Travellers are strongly advised to stay away until Burundi gets back on its feet.

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The climate in Burundi varies widely depending on whether you are in the lowlands around Lake Tanganyika, where temperatures average 30°C (86F), or the more mountainous north, where the usual temperature is a much milder 20°C (68°F). The rainy season in Burundi lasts from around October to May, with a brief dry spell in December and January. Burundi's high altitudes subdue the tropical climate, which makes for consistently hot days and refreshingly cool nights. The driest (and hottest) part of the year is between June and September when temperatures often rise above 30°C (86°F).

Transport

Getting around

Air Burundi, the national airline, does not have regular internal flights.

Most major roads in Burundi are sealed and public transport is mostly minibuses. Destinations are displayed in the front window and buses depart when full. They depart throughout the day from the gare routière (bus station) in any town. However, travelling around the countryside is potentially life-threatening owing to frequent rebel ambushes, so ask around before heading out of Bujumbura, if you're only travelling to the second city of Gitega.

Getting there and away

There are very few international airlines serving Burundi due to the ongoing conflict. Kenya Airways flies to Nairobi. Air Burundi and Ethiopian Airlines take on the short hop to Kigali.

A minibus operated by Yahoo Express is probably the safest way to travel in and out of Burundi overland. The bus operates daily between Kayanza, Burundi and Butare, Rwanda.

The MV Mwongozo ferry sails along Lake Tanganyika between Bujumbura and Kigoma, Tanzania.

Health & Legal Requirements

Visas overview

Visas are required by all. One-month tourist visas cost 40.00. Three-day visas (20.00) are available at the airport upon arrival or at borders. Check with the nearest Burundi embassy for the latest visa information before departure.