Entry Requirements and Visas
Most visitors will need a visa to enter Burundi. Citizens of Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are exempt from this requirement, but all other nationalities must obtain one.
If you're applying from Europe, you can get a visa from the Burundi Embassy in London or from embassies in Berlin, Brussels, and The Hague. A 30-day tourist visa from the London embassy costs £60, while embassies elsewhere typically charge USD90 for a 30-day multiple-entry visa.
You can also obtain a visa upon arrival at Bujumbura International Airport. Two options are available: a 3-day visa for USD40 or a 30-day multiple-entry visa for USD90. If entering by land, only a 3-day transit visa (USD40) is available at border crossings.
Should you need to extend your stay, you can visit the Immigration office in Bujumbura (Office 121). Extensions cost USD20 for 10 days or USD50 for 30 days. You'll need your passport photo, the original receipt for your 3-day visa, and copies of your passport information page and arrival stamp. Be prepared for this process to take several hours, as the immigration office handles high volumes of applications.
Money, Currency, and Typical Costs
The currency in Burundi is the Burundian Franc (BIF).
Staying Safe and Emergency Contacts
Burundi is a post-conflict country, and visitors should exercise extreme caution. Although the country has experienced some stabilization since its democratic transition in 2005, significant insecurity remains in many areas.
Several security concerns warrant your attention. Rebel groups continue to operate, and banditry, armed robbery, and petty crime pose real threats. Avoid traveling after dark, as many roads close at night. Most embassies maintain curfews for their staff, which gives you a sense of the security environment.
Before traveling to Burundi, contact your embassy for the latest security updates and local developments. Stay informed about changing conditions and adjust your plans accordingly. Your embassy can provide emergency contact information and current safety guidance tailored to your nationality.
Health
Several health precautions are important when visiting Burundi. Ensure you are up to date on vaccinations before your trip. Avoid street food from kiosks and do not drink unboiled water—stick to bottled or boiled water throughout your stay.
HIV infection is present in the population, so take appropriate health precautions and be mindful of safety when seeking any medical treatment. As with travel to any developing region, it's wise to carry basic medications and a first-aid kit, and to have travel health insurance that covers evacuation if necessary.
Staying Connected
Before your trip, contact your mobile provider about international roaming options, or research local telecommunications companies that offer prepaid SIM cards upon arrival. Internet availability and quality can vary significantly, so plan accordingly if you need reliable connectivity for work or communication.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Burundian society places strong emphasis on respect for hierarchy and elders. Always treat older people and authority figures with genuine respect, and avoid any behavior that might challenge their authority or dignity.
Family is central to Burundian culture. Parents are deeply involved in their children's lives and upbringing. It's considered rude to make critical or disparaging comments about someone's family members, so be mindful of this in your conversations.
If you're invited to a Burundian home, your hosts will likely offer you snacks and drinks as a gesture of hospitality. Accept these offerings graciously—declining them can be seen as disrespectful and may make your hosts feel their hospitality is unwanted. Showing appreciation for their kindness will strengthen your interactions and relationships.