[highlight background=”#FFCAD4″ style=”underline”]10 Things to Do in Burundi: The Most Unique Travel Destinations in Africa?[/highlight]
Burundi is a place that most travelers don’t hear much about. That doesn’t mean it’s not worth exploring, though. This little East African country is home to some of the most unique travel destinations in Africa. Here are 10 things you need to do in Burundi.
[highlight background=”#FFCAD4″ style=”underline”]Exploring Burundi[/highlight]
Visit Burundi National Park
Burundi National Park is one of the most unique travel destinations in Africa. It is one of the few places where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild. Its dense forests and remote locations make it a perfect place for these endangered primates to live in peace. To visit this park, you need to fly to Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi, or travel via bus or car. Once you are there, you can explore the park on guided tours or on your own. You can hike the trails and go for a swim in the lakes.
Eat at a Burundian Market
If you love to eat, you have to visit the Burundian market. Yes, the one in the capital Bujumbura is quite similar to those you can find in other African countries. But, the atmosphere in this market is something you have to experience. And, trust me, you will love it. The market is full of colorful items that you can buy for souvenirs or just to keep in your home. You can also try the local cuisine, which is usually very tasty and inexpensive.
Go Kayaking in Bujumbura
Bujumbura is one of those cities you would love to explore by kayak. It has a calm lake, that you can paddle around, and a high quality historical city, that you can explore. You can also visit a couple of nearby towns that are just a few hours away by kayak, like Ngozi, where you can go for a swim in the lake and enjoy the surrounding nature. Nearby mountains, that you can scale on your way back, are also a great option.
Visit the Ruins of Ruhengeri
Ruhengeri is a destroyed city that presents an interesting contrast with the modern cities of the neighboring countries. It is located in the center of the country, in the middle of a rainforest. The ruins of Ruhengeri are both a tourist attraction and an archaeological site. You can visit the ruins by car or tour. You can also explore the surrounding rainforest by car, or hike the nearby hills. To visit the ruins, you will need to make an advance booking.
Stay in an Umoja Camping Ground
For those who want to experience the true African lifestyle, an umoja camping ground is a must. An umoja means a place where several families come together and share the space and facilities, usually for a small fee. You can stay in an umoja camping ground for a day, for a week or for a month. You can also choose to live with a local family, and experience their culture. You can find an umoja camping ground on Airbnb, or by asking around at the local hostels.
Go Swimming in Arundel beach
For the best swimming experience in the country, head to Arundel beach in the south of Bujumbura. You can swim here during the day, or at night, when it is illuminated by a hundred thousand light bulbs. Arundel beach is also a great place to go kayaking, or go snorkelling. The best thing about this beach is that it is very safe, considering that it is near the capital city. There is also a hotel, where you can stay in a bungalow, by the beach.
Enjoy a Sunset Drink at the Slipway Pub and Grill
For the best view of the sunset in the country, head to the Slipway Pub and Grill, located on the Arundel beach. The best time to visit is between 5:30 and 7:00 pm, when the sun is at its best. You can also visit the pub any time during the day, since it is open 24 hours. You can enjoy a cold drink and watch the water, or you can also go for seafood. The next time you are in Burundi, don’t miss out on this experience.
Take Your Kids on Safari in Mambéré-Safia Gorilla Sanctuary
If you want to take your kids on an unforgettable experience, visit Mambéré-Safia Gorilla Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to nearly 100 gorillas, including infants. You can interact with the animals while on a tour in the sanctuary, or by living in a camp. The tours are fairly affordable, and they are quite safe. You can also visit the sanctuary on your own, by car.
Wrap Up: Bites, drinks and tips
If you have ever wondered what to do in Burundi, then you are in the right place. This country is full of unique travel destinations, and you can enjoy them all without much effort. So, let’s get started and start exploring this African nation.
