Burundi off the Beaten Path
Burundi is a little-known, hilly country sometimes referred to as the “Heart of Africa” and is truly a distinct place for the adventurous traveler. While Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Burundi features a stunning geography of rolling hills that evokes a similar, beautiful ambiance in the countryside. Arriving in this country means leaving the masses of safari tourists behind for a more authentic experience, celebrating its beautiful culture and profound nature. In this guide, you will discover Burundi’s best-kept secrets and a catalogue of real experiences and memories to last a lifetime.
Heartbeat of Culture: Royal Drumming and Village Life.
Burundi’s essence is represented most strongly through its culture, and none more so than through one of its oldest cultural traditions, drumming. The drumming is more than just a performance; it is sacred activity and a deep reflection of the culture of the nation, recognized by UNESCO.
Gishora Drum Sanctuary: Instead of a commercial mass tourism show, you will have the opportunity to witness the authenticity of Burundian heritage. Perched high on a hill outside of Gitega (the cultural heart of the country), the Gishora Drum Sanctuary features the famed Royal Drummers from Burundi. Witness an intense drum performance filled with rhythm that conveys tales of kings and warriors, and through this experience, you will see how the sacred Ingoma drums are crafted, and feel the earth vibrating from the heaving of the drumming. It is a rich place to experience living tradition, rather than a show.
Authentic Community Experiences: Follow the experience with a rural excursion to gain a constituted experience; experiences such as Rugo Traditionnel de Mugamba provide honest access to ancestral practices and customs, and each opportunity presents ways to see traditional house construction, observe milk making, brew banana beer, and tell stories in community. Each experience is intended to have nothing to do with getting a quick photo and giving individuals an opportunity for meaningful connections, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Burundians outside of large cities.
Unspoiled Natural Wonders: Waterfalls, Lakes, and Forests.
While this destination doesn’t feature the large, iconic safari parks of neighboring countries, its small footprint provides great access to its pristine environment, habitation, and varied ecosystems. Burundian nature is beautiful and you can revel in the views.
Karera Waterfalls: Located in Rutana Province, Karera Waterfalls (Chutes de la Karera) is a breathtaking and scenic waterfall that flows down rocky outcrops and cliff faces surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Karera comprises multiple unique viewpoints to encourage peaceful exploration. You will find that you can often have this wonderful environment to yourself, with opportunities to listen to the rushing water and birds’ sounds combined. This is a wonderful area for easy hiking and photography to be in nature in its most raw form.
Tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika: This Great Lake is one of the world’s deepest and longest lakes. While the capital Bujumbura, has some well-known beaches, including the popular Saga Beach, there are a few hidden gems on the more eastern and southern shores of Tanganyika. Here you will be to meet local fishermen, see how they use traditional fishing, or just relax on the tranquil and beautiful beaches. There are many water based activities such as swimming in the clear waters or just a peaceful boat ride relaxing after some cultural activities.
Wildlands: Trekking and Wildlife.
There may not be a lot of area provided by Burundi’s national parks and reserves, but you’ll definitely get to see different wildlife and enjoy some fantastic hiking options for the active traveler.
Kibira National Park: In the northwestern region, Kibira is one of the last remaining largest montane rainforest in East Africa. Although it was previously known as sacred hunting reserve for the kings of Burundi, it now serves as a natural wildlife enthusiast. For the birdwatchers Kibira is rewarding that is being the home to over 250 species, while hikers and primate watchers are in for a treat with the numerous species of monkeys, for example, chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. A guided nature walk through the rainforest canopy provides a respite from the warm temperatures, and an opportunity to enjoy the high-altitude habitat.
Ruvubu National Park: Ruvubu is the largest national park in Burundi, and is located in the northeastern region of the country; Ruvubu is the spot for “safari” type activities, i.e. animals in their habitat. Although Ruvubu is smaller than other national parks in the region, it is the home to, for example, buffalo, antelopes, hippopotamuses, and innumerable birds. The game drives at Ruvubu seem intimate, and exclusive, giving the experience of a quiet safari atmosphere without the crowds of tourists.
Burundi really is an explorer’s paradise – a small nation with a big experience. Besides the sights, it also offers real, genuine interactions, a vibrant culture, and a pristine hilly landscape. It’s a trip that welcomes you to feel Africa, not simply observe it.
