From Gorillas to Great lakes: Adding Burundi to your Primate Safari.
For the adventurous traveller looking to elevate a standard East African primate safari, extending the journey to include Burundi offers a rewarding and unique final chapter. While Uganda and Rwanda rightfully claim the spotlight for mountain gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, adding Burundi, the “Heart of Africa,” changes the trip from a wildlife itinerary into a comprehensive Great Lakes Safari Circuit.
This small nation, located among vast hills and defined by the majestic Lake Tanganyika, provides a powerful cultural counterbalance, tranquil relaxation, and a taste of authentic, uncrowded Central African life. It turns a wildlife encounter into a perfect cultural and geographical exploration.
Logistics of the circuit: Blending primates and peace.
The key to a successful Great Lakes Safari Circuit is the seamless, logical flow between the intense trekking experiences in Uganda and Rwanda and the relaxation and culture of Burundi.
Gorilla experience.
The journey typically begins with the demanding, yet-life-changing, gorilla trek. Most travellers fly into Rwanda’s Kigali and then connect to either Volcanoes National Park (for the luxury trek) or cross the border to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda (for the value and then diverse trekking options). This phase is characterized by the early mornings, tiresome hiking, and the emotional high of observing the gorillas.
Chimpanzees and culture.
The middle phase involves the energetic chimpanzee tracking in Uganda’s Kibale National Park, often followed by the Big five safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Once the intense wildlife viewing is complete, the circuit pivots toward to the south. The easiest route involves flying from Kigali or Entebbe/Kampala directly to Bujumbura, Burundi’s capital, or taking a scenic, though longer, drive from Rwanda across the border. Burundi then serves as the essential decompression zone, offering quiet, low-key activities that soothe the senses after days of jungle trekking.
Burundi: The ultimate decompression zone.
After the physical demands and excitement of primate tracking, Burundi offers a stark, beautiful contrast centered on relaxation and serenity.
Lake Tanganyika: The Inland Sea.
Burundi’s main attraction is its stunning segment of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest and second deepest freshwater lake. The capital, Bujumbura, sits right on its shore, providing easy access to the beautiful Saga Beach and the numerous lakeside resorts. Unlike a bumpy safari lodge, here, the focus is on tranquillity.
Aquatic Calm; the water is clear, fresh and then warm perfect for swimming, snorkeling and then gentle boat cruises.
Sunset and Serenity: The evening experience is unmatched, with spectacular sunsets as the sun dips behind the Congo mountains, a perfect backdrop for a relaxing sundowner after the early safari starts.
Rusizi National Park: Accessible Wildlife.
For a final, gentle dose of the wildlife, Rusizi National Park, easily accessed from Bujumbura, offers the chance to see large pods of hippos and enormous Nile crocodiles from a safe boat ride. This low-key encounter is stress-free, contrasting with the intense trekking required for the gorillas, making it a perfect wind-down activity.
Cultural Immersion: Human Heart of Africa.
Burundi offers a unique opportunity for cultural engagement, an element often less prominent in the trekking-heavy Rwandan and Ugandan itineraries.
Royal Drummers: Rhythmic Heritage.
A must-see experience is the performance of the Royal Drummers of Burundi (Abatimbo). This ancient tradition, characterized by the synchronized, powerful, and acrobatic rhythm of the drums, is a world-recognized cultural treasure. Attending a performance provides a vibrant, unforgettable immersion into the country’s rich heritage and spirituality.
The source of the Nile Pilgrimage.
For the geographically inclined travellers, a trip to Rutovu offers a pilgrimage to the undisputed southernmost source of the River Nile. Standing at the simple pyramid monument that marks the beginning of the world’s longest river is a powerful, reflective moment that connects the journey back to the wider African continent. The scenic drive through the famous rolling green hills of Burundi is an attraction in itself, offering continuous, breathtaking views.
Logistical considerations for the bold traveler.
While Burundi is a safe and welcoming country, adding it to the itinerary requires slightly more planning and flexibility than sticking only to the established safari routes.
Visa and Entry: Travellers will need to secure the necessary visas. While regional East African Tourist Visas (EATV) typically cover Uganda and Rwanda, a separate visa for Burundi is usually required.
Transportation: the most efficient way to connect to Burundi is by flying from Kigali (Rwanda) or Entebbe (Uganda) to Bujumbura International Airport (BJA). Land border crossings are possible but require more time.
Accommodation choice: while luxury lodges exist near Lake Tanganyika, much of Burundi’s charm lies in its clean, friendly, mid-range, and locally owned hotels and guesthouses. Embracing this simpler accommodation style enhances the authentic adventure.
In conclusion, adding Burundi to a primate safari itinerary changes it into the Ultimate Great Lakes Circuit. It moves the traveler from the demanding rainforests to the peaceful shores, from endangered wildlife to the vibrant human culture, completing a holistic journey across the heart of the African continent. This route is highly recommended for the traveller looking for depth, authenticity, and an unforgettable, multi-faceted African experience with Nyumbu Beyond Journeys.
