Burundi Travel guide, IDP apply online Burundi, International Driving Permit Burundi, International Driving licence Burundi, International Driving license Burundi
Burundi, a small East African country often overshadowed by its neighbours, boasts a captivating blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a fascinating history. From the pristine waters of Lake Tanganyika to the lush mountains and bustling city of Bujumbura, Burundi is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences or someone looking to immerse in African traditions, this guide covers everything you need to know before visiting Burundi.
Getting to Burundi
Visa Requirements
Most visitors to Burundi require a visa, obtainable at a Burundian embassy or consulate. Some nationalities can apply for a visa on arrival, but it’s advisable to verify the latest information from the Burundi immigration website before traveling. If you are coming from a country without diplomatic representation, it’s recommended to apply for a visa in advance.
Flights and Entry Points
The main entry point for international travelers is Melchior Ndadaye International Airport in Bujumbura, which receives flights from neighboring countries and key African hubs like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, and Kigali. Direct flights from Europe or other continents are scarce, so most travelers connect via East African cities.
Land Borders and Crossing Options
Burundi shares borders with Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. There are several land border crossings, but the most commonly used is the one between Burundi and Rwanda, particularly for those coming from Kigali. It’s crucial to check the security situation and current travel advisories before crossing by land.
Best Time to Visit Burundi
Climate Overview
Burundi has a tropical climate with two rainy seasons (February to May and September to November) and two dry seasons (June to August and December to January). The dry seasons are generally the best time to visit, especially for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing.
Peak Tourist Seasons
The months of June to August and December to January are the peak times to visit Burundi due to pleasant weather conditions. These periods are ideal for visiting national parks, relaxing by Lake Tanganyika, and exploring the cities.
Festivals and Cultural Events
If you’re interested in experiencing Burundian culture, plan your trip around the Drum Festival in Gishora, where the country’s famous royal drummers perform. Another important event is Independence Day on July 1st, celebrated with parades, cultural performances, and lively festivities.
Top Destinations in Burundi
Bujumbura – The Capital City
Bujumbura, the economic and cultural hub of Burundi, is located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The city offers vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and lively nightlife. Don’t miss a visit to Musee Vivant, where you can learn about Burundi’s wildlife and cultural history.
Exploring Burundi
Discover the allure of Lake Tanganyika, a renowned destination for swimming, fishing, and boating due to its crystal-clear waters and serene sandy beaches. This pristine location attracts both locals and tourists seeking relaxation and engaging in water-based activities.
In the verdant north lies Kibira National Park, a lush rainforest that provides exceptional opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. Home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and an abundance of bird species, the park is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Delve into Burundi’s culture and traditions with its official languages, Kirundi and French, and the widespread use of Swahili in markets and border areas. More so, the majority of the population practices Christianity, combined with traditional beliefs, making social customs and etiquette fundamental in daily interactions.
Indulge in traditional Burundian cuisine, characterized by simple yet flavorful dishes such as ugali (cornmeal porridge), isombe (cassava leaves with peanuts), and the popular freshwater fish from Lake Tanganyika served grilled or fried. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to sample banana beer, a quintessential Burundian beverage.
While political instability has historically impacted the country, the safety situation has improved. Nonetheless, exercising caution, especially in rural and border regions, remains crucial. Registering with your embassy upon arrival and staying informed through official travel advisories are essential safety measures.
Navigating the country is made possible through public buses and minivans for city and town transportation, alongside car rentals in Bujumbura, where hiring a vehicle with a driver is advisable due to challenging road conditions. Motorbike taxis offer a swift means of maneuvering through urban traffic, with a fare agreement being customary before commencing the journey.
What you need to rent a car, and how to rent one
As a tourist, you’ll most likely be renting a car (more on that in a bit) for your road trip. Even so, there are certain requirements that you’ll have to check off before you get into it.
- You have to get an International Driver’s Permit. Apply for it online or head to the office — we prefer doing it in person because the queue is pretty short during off-peak hours, and you can get it done on the same day. It’ll cost S$20 and is valid for one year from the date of issue.
- A valid local driver’s license. international driving licence online
- You have to be at least 21 years of age and have held your local licence for a year. A surcharge may be imposed for drivers under the age of 25.
- A passport for identification .
- A credit card in the driver’s name.
How to obtain an international driving permit
The process of obtaining an international driving license directly from an office can be quite challenging and time-consuming. The payment methods involved can also be complex. Therefore, it is recommended to consider applying for an international driving license from IMTA. The application process only takes around 10 to 15 minutes, making it a more efficient option for getting your international driving permit Get Your Online Int’l Driving Permit for the United Kingdom
The necessary details required for the application of an International driving permit include:
– Full Name
– Email & Phone Number
– Current Address
– Place of Birth
– National Driver’s License Number
– National Driver’s License Issued Date & Expiry Date
– Picture of Driver’s License & Your Head Shot Photo for Your IDP
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