A simple, honest guide to your first days in Burundi – from landing at Bujumbura’s Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM) to getting around, handling money, staying safe and enjoying your time.
Use this page to feel more prepared and relaxed. When you are ready, our team can handle your airport pickup, transfers and tours so you can focus on the experience.
These short notes give you a sense of what to expect when you arrive in Burundi. They are not official rules – just practical orientation from people who live here.
Most international flights arrive at Bujumbura’s Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM).
Share your flight number and arrival time so we can track any delays.
You will hear Kirundi, French and more and more English.
Our guides and drivers speak English and French, and can translate for you.
The local currency is the Burundian Franc, but USD and card payments are often used in tourism.
We offer options for secure payments so you don’t have to carry too much cash.
You can experience a lot even with only a few days in Burundi.
Tell us how many days you have – we’ll suggest what fits best.
Burundi is calmer than many people expect, especially for guided travel.
We continuously monitor local conditions and adjust routes when needed.
One of the deepest lakes in the world is right next to Bujumbura.
Ask us to add a lake visit or boat tour to your first day itinerary.
Many travelers arrive after a long journey. The best first day is usually slow, simple and welcoming – not rushed. Here is a gentle way we often design Day 1.
After immigration and baggage claim, walking out and seeing a friendly face changes everything.
The first thing most travelers want is a shower, a drink and a moment to breathe.
If you still have energy, a short tour is a perfect welcome.
These are the three topics travelers ask about the most – how to move around, how to pay, and how to stay in touch with family and colleagues.
For most visitors, private car and driver is the safest and easiest option.
We agree on routes and prices before your trip, so there are no surprises.
Mix comfort and safety by combining cards and some cash.
Ask us in advance about payment options for transfers and tours.
It’s easy to stay online once you know your options.
Keep your phone unlocked if you plan to use a local SIM card.
Burundians are known for being warm and welcoming. A few simple habits will help you connect more easily and respectfully with local people.
Starting with a warm greeting goes a long way.
Cities and villages can feel different in terms of dress and expectations.
You will see many scenes you want to remember – do so respectfully.
You don’t need a huge suitcase to enjoy Burundi – just some smart basics. Here is a simple checklist many travelers find useful.
These are some of the questions we hear most often from travelers who are curious about Burundi but unsure what to expect.
Many visitors are pleasantly surprised by how calm and welcoming Burundi feels, especially when moving with trusted local guides and drivers. As in any country, it is important to follow local advice, avoid unnecessary risks and stay informed. We design routes and timings to keep you comfortable and safe throughout your stay.
You can absolutely travel as a solo traveler, couple, family or group. Most of our tours and transfers are private, which means you are not joined with strangers – just you and your guide/driver. For larger groups (NGOs, conferences, schools), we provide multiple vehicles and additional staff when needed.
With 1–2 days, you can see Bujumbura, Lake Tanganyika and a few key sites. With 3–4 days, you can enjoy Gishora Drums, Karera Waterfalls, the Source of the Nile (Burundi) and more countryside. With a week, you can explore deeper – villages, Rusizi National Park and slow, meaningful experiences with local communities.
No – it helps, but it is not required. Our team speaks English and French and will translate for you in markets, villages and meetings. Many Burundians, especially younger people and those in tourism or NGOs, speak some English as well.
Yes. We regularly organize short experiences for travelers who are in Burundi for work, conferences or transit. Even with just 2–3 hours, you can see Lake Tanganyika, a bit of the city and feel the human warmth that Burundi is known for.
Share your flight details, how many days you have and what kind of experience you would love. We’ll take care of your airport pickup, local transport and tours so your time in Burundi feels safe, meaningful and well organized.