Orientation briefing in Burundi

Established in the 1600s, the Burundi Kingdom has had borders similar to those of modern Burundi since the 1800s. Burundi’s two major ethnic groups, the majority Hutu and minority Tutsi, share a common language and culture and largely lived in peaceful cohabitation under Tutsi monarchs in pre-colonial Burundi. Regional, class, and clan distinctions contributed to social status in the Burundi Kingdom, yielding a complex class structure. German colonial rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and Belgian rule after World War I preserved Burundi’s monarchy. Seeking to simplify administration, Belgian colonial officials reduced the number of chiefdoms and eliminated most Hutu chiefs from positions of power. In 1961, the Burundian Tutsi king’s oldest son, Louis RWAGASORE, was murdered by a competing political faction shortly before he was set to become prime minister, triggering increased political competition that contributed to later instability.

Burundi gained its independence from Belgium in 1962 as the Kingdom of Burundi. Revolution in neighboring Rwanda stoked ethnic polarization as the Tutsi increasingly feared violence and loss of political power. A failed Hutu-led coup in 1965 triggered a purge of Hutu officials and set the stage for Tutsi officers to overthrow the monarchy in 1966 and establish a Tutsi-dominated republic. A Hutu rebellion in 1972 resulted in the deaths of several thousand Tutsi civilians and sparked brutal Tutsi-led military reprisals against Hutu civilians which ultimately killed 100,000-200,000 people. International pressure led to a new constitution in 1992 and democratic elections in 1993. Tutsi military officers feared Hutu domination and assassinated Burundi's first democratically elected president, Hutu Melchior NDADAYE, in 1993 after only 100 days in office, sparking a civil war. In 1994, his successor, Cyprien NTARYAMIRA, died when the Rwandan president’s plane he was traveling on was shot down, which triggered the Rwandan genocide and further entrenched ethnic conflict in Burundi. The internationally brokered Arusha Agreement, signed in 2000, and subsequent cease-fire agreements with armed movements ended the 1993-2005 civil war. Burundi’s second democratic elections were held in 2005, resulting in the election of Pierre NKURUNZIZA as president. He was reelected in 2010 and again in 2015 after a controversial court decision allowed him to circumvent a term limit. President Evariste NDAYISHIMIYE -- from NKURUNZIZA’s ruling party -- was elected in 2020.

Armed group activity and conflict along the border between Burundi and DRC has increased. Be cautious and keep up to date with developments through local media, given heightened insecurity. The only international airport in Burundi is the Melchior Ndadaye airport. In the event that flights were not available at the airport, there are currently limited land border options to exit Burundi. The DRC border area is unstable and the Rwandan border is closed. The Tanzania-Burundi border continues to operate normally, although transport options may be limited by the ongoing fuel shortages.

Burundi closed its land borders with Rwanda on 11 January 2024 because of escalating bilateral tensions. It is still possible to fly between the two capitals.

There are reports of arbitrary arrests, detentions and disappearances of Burundians, most often from civil society, independent media and pockets of society perceived to be anti-government.

Grenade attacks are common in Burundi. On 10 May 2024, there were two grenade attacks in central Bujumbura targeting crowded areas. Attacks of this kind can be used by criminal gangs or have a political motivation.

Avoid all large gatherings, stay alert and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Parts of Bujumbura Province

FCDO advises against all travel to Mugina, Cibitoke, Bukinyayana, Bubanza and Mpanda communes due to the risk of the presence of a rebel group in the Kibira National Park and possible armed incursions from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). 

FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Ntahangwa commune, specifically the RN5 road north of Melchior Ndadaye International Airport in Bujumbura towards Cibitoke and west of the Rusizi river towards the border with DRC, including Rusizi National Park (also known as Rusizi Delta Nature Reserve). This is due to possible armed incursions from DRC.

Parts of Butanyerera Province

FCDO advises against all travel on the main RN6 and RN10 roads running west from Kayanza through the Kibira National Park towards Cibitoke, due to the risk of the presence of a rebel group and possible armed incursions from DRC.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

Burundi-DRC border

Armed group activity and conflict along the border between Burundi and DRC has increased. Be cautious and keep up to date with developments through local media, given heightened insecurity.

Armed group activity and the movement of military and refugees in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could affect people on the Burundian side of the border, in Bujumbura Province. The security situation in DRC near to Burundi’s border is unstable (see Democratic Republic of the Congo’s travel advice for more information).

The only international airport in Burundi is the Melchior Ndadaye International Airport. In the event that flights were not available at the airport, there are currently limited land border options to exit Burundi. The DRC border area is unstable and the Rwandan border is closed. The Tanzania-Burundi border continues to operate normally, although transport options may be limited by the ongoing fuel shortages.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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This guide also has safety advice for regions of Burundi.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Burundi

Terrorist attacks in Burundi cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.

Follow the advice of local authorities and exercise caution while travelling around the country.

Political situation

Armed group activity and conflict along the border between Burundi and DRC has increased. Be cautious and keep up to date with developments through local media, given heightened insecurity. The only international airport in Burundi is the Melchior Ndadaye airport. In the event that flights were not available at the airport, there are currently limited land border options to exit Burundi. The DRC border area is unstable and the Rwandan border is closed. The Tanzania-Burundi border continues to operate normally, although transport options may be limited by the ongoing fuel shortages.

Burundi closed its land borders with Rwanda on 11 January 2024 because of escalating bilateral tensions. It is still possible to fly between the two capitals.

There are reports of arbitrary arrests, detentions and disappearances of Burundians, most often from civil society, independent media and pockets of society perceived to be anti-government.

Grenade attacks are common in Burundi. On 10 May 2024, there were two grenade attacks in central Bujumbura targeting crowded areas. Attacks of this kind can be used by criminal gangs or have a political motivation.

Avoid all large gatherings, stay alert and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Crime

The crime rate in Burundi is high. There is a risk of muggings at gun and knifepoint, bag-snatching, pickpocketing, burglary, car break-ins and armed carjackings.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

You can take steps to reduce your personal risk, by:

• not walking in the streets or using public transport after dark, even in Bujumbura city centre
• not carrying large amounts of money
• taking care when withdrawing or exchanging cash, and not doing so at night
• staying in hotels that have good security
• using hotel safes where possible
• keeping copies of important documents, including your passport and visa, separately
• being wary of who you plan to meet and where, and informing colleagues or family members of your plans

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs

Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties.  

You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport. 

Airports in Burundi have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

LGBT+ travellers  

Same-sex sexual acts are illegal. Punishment includes a prison sentence of between 3 months and 2 years and a fine. Burundi is a socially conservative society and LGBT+ people are not accepted. Showing affection in public may receive unwanted and negative attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Money

Burundi is largely a cash-based society. Take US dollars dated post-2006. Most businesses will not accept or exchange older currency and US dollars with small tears will also be rejected. You can usually exchange euros and British pounds.

There’s a shortage of foreign exchange currencies in Burundi and an unofficial FX exchange rate exists. The unofficial rate can be substantially different from the official exchange rate.

Outside Bujumbura credit and debit cards are rarely accepted, and there are not many ATMs. Do not rely on cash withdrawals. You can often use mobile money in tourist hotels.

Outdoor activities

Swimming

Avoid swimming in Lake Tanganyika due to the risk of:

• being attacked by wildlife
• waterborne diseases

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Burundi, see information on driving abroad.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Burundi for 6 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence.

Drink -driving is a serious offence in Burundi. Penalties include fines and possibly a prison sentence.

Road conditions

There are only a small number of paved roads and these are sometimes in poor condition. Road infrastructure generally is poor and roads are frequently blocked or damaged by landslides, especially after heavy rain.

Landslides can destroy road bridges, making some routes impassable. Check local advice on road conditions when planning travel by road and have an alternative plan in case your route is blocked.

Driving standards are very poor and vehicles are often poorly maintained. Serious accidents are common.

If you’re involved in a car accident it’s unlikely the emergency services will be able to respond quickly or effectively. You can request help from the Red Cross by calling 109. They will act as first responders, along with the local traffic police (‘police de la protection civile et gestion des catastrophes’). You can contact the police by calling 112.   

Keep car doors locked and windows closed. Avoid travelling by road outside Bujumbura after dark, because of the security situation and road safety concerns.

Roadblocks

Roadblocks and document checks are common, and not always official. Carry a copy of your passport and visa, but you may need to produce originals.

Access into and out of Bujumbura city is controlled by police at night.

Fuel shortages

Burundi is currently suffering from severe fuel shortages. Do not assume you’ll be able to get fuel in the country. Where fuel is available, there can often be long lines.

Public transport

Public transport vehicles (buses and motorbike taxis) are often poorly maintained and have low driving standards.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Flooding

The rainy season in Burundi runs from October to May and can result in flash floods. Consular assistance is limited in Burundi.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes in the region can be felt in Burundi. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

This section has safety advice for regions of Burundi. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Burundi-DRC border

See advice for the Burundi-DRC border on the Warnings and insurance page.

In December 2023, rebel militia group Red-Tabara attacked the town of Vugizo, near the DRC border (and 20km from Bujumbura). Local reports suggest up to 20 people died, including one police officer.

In September 2023, in Gihanga commune, Bubanza province, Red-Tabara rebels killed two individuals on the RN5 road and reportedly damaged a guidance antenna for Melchior Ndadaye International Airport in Bujumbura.

Contact your destination before you set off and make sure you allow enough time to complete your journey during daylight hours.

Former Central Market and bus station located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore in Bujumbura

Exercise increased caution around the former market and bus station area located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore in Bujumbura due to the risk of violent crime. On 10 May 2024, a grenade attack took place targeting the bus stop. Consider whether travel in this area of Bujumbura is necessary, avoid all large gatherings and stay alert at all times.

Burundi-Rwanda border crossings

Burundi closed its land borders with Rwanda on 11 January 2024 because of escalating tensions.

There have previously been armed attacks in the border region with Rwanda. If you’re travelling near the border with Rwanda, check local media for the latest developments and stay up to date with this travel advice page.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 112 and ask for an ambulance.

You can also request help from the Red Cross by calling 109.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:  

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Burundi
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Burundi, including:  

• Zika
• malaria and dengue 
• yellow fever
• mpox

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Burundi. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Ebola

On 15 May  the Democratic Republic of Congo Ministry of Health announced an outbreak of Ebola Bundibugyo in the North-Eastern Ituri Province. Read more about the Ebola outbreak on TravelHealth Pro and see information on Ebola and similar diseases. World Health Organisation (WHO) have declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Due to the outbreak, you may experience heightened health screening at international borders in the region. Check entry requirements for the country you’re travelling to or transiting.

HIV and AIDS

UNAIDS estimated that in 2019 there were around 76,000 adults aged 15 or over in Burundi were living with HIV. The prevalence percentage was estimated at around 1% of the adult population compared to the prevalence percentage in adults in the UK of around 0.25%. Follow normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS.

Other health risks

An outbreak of cholera continues in Burundi. Take precautions and get urgent medical attention if you become unwell.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Burundi

There are 3 hospitals in Bujumbura that provide medical care for serious accidents:

• Kira Hospital
• Hôpital Militaire de Kamenge
• Médecins Sans Frontières in Prince Régent Charles Hospital

Outside Bujumbura, there is a lack of adequate medical facilities and medical evacuation to Kenya or Rwanda may be needed.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Burundi where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.