How Safe is the border crossing between Rwanda and Burundi?

Are you planning a trip to Burundi starting and ending in Kigali and you want to know how Safe is the border crossing between Rwanda and Burundi, this land border is very safe after it was reopened in 2022, the border between Burundi and Rwanda was closed for almost six years, first amid political tensions and then by the COVID-19 pandemic.

On average now its 15 minutes all it now takes to make the border crossing between Rwanda and Burundi, Burundi Immigration offers a tourist visa for all nationalities that don’t have free access to the country. How Safe is the border crossing between Rwanda and Burundi, If you want to visit Burundi for tourism purposes, you will need to have a Passport which must be valid and it should have at least one blank page. You will also need to have a yellow fever vaccination and then pay for the Burundi Visa at the border which costs $40 per person.

 A trip to Burundi starting and ending in Kigali is a special trip and this offers a rich and diverse experience, showcasing the cultural, natural, and historical attractions of these countries in the East African region. However, it’s important to note that this region has had its share of political instability and safety concerns, so careful planning and up-to-date information are essential when considering such a tour.

Here’s an overview of what you might experience on a tour of Rwanda and Burundi:

Rwanda:

1. Kigali: Start your journey in the capital city of Rwanda. Explore the Genocide Memorial, which serves as a somber reminder of the country’s tragic history, as well as the vibrant local markets and cultural centers.
2. Volcanoes National Park: Home to the endangered mountain gorillas, this park offers the unique opportunity to go gorilla trekking. It’s a truly immersive wildlife experience that allows you to observe these incredible creatures up close in their natural habitat.
3. Lake Kivu: This picturesque lake offers opportunities for water activities like boat rides, kayaking, and lakeside relaxation. You can also visit the town of Gisenyi, known for its beautiful beaches.

Burundi:

1. Bujumbura: Begin your exploration in the capital city of Burundi. Visit the Livingstone-Stanley Monument, which marks the spot where explorers David Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley met, and explore local markets and cultural sites.
2. Rusizi National Park: This park offers a chance to see hippos and various bird species along the Rusizi River. It’s a great place for a boat safari.
3. Gishora Drum Sanctuary: Experience Burundi’s rich cultural heritage by visiting this sanctuary, where you can witness traditional drumming performances and learn about the significance of drums in the country’s history.

Travel Tips:

• Safety: Keep abreast of the current political and safety situation in each country. Consult travel advisories and consider hiring a local guide for a safer and more informed experience.
• Visas and Permits: Check the visa requirements for each country well in advance. Some countries might require permits for activities like gorilla trekking.
• Health Considerations: Research the necessary vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to this region.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs, traditions, and dress codes.
• Guided Tours: Given the potential challenges of traveling in this region, joining a guided tour with experienced operators might be a safer and more convenient option.

Remember that the situation in these countries can change, so always stay updated on current events and consult official sources for the latest information before planning your Rwanda DR Congo and Burundi Tour.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is found in the northwestern part of Rwanda, it shares borders with Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo. The main activities to do in this park during your staff team building in Rwanda include Mountain Gorilla tracking, hiking one of the 5 volcanoes/mountains found in this park which include Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Sabinyo and Gahinga, visiting the Dian Fossey Tomb and Research Center, Golden Monkey tracking among others.

Eco Adventure Safaris is one of the best ecotourism operators in Africa and with our great experience in organizing amazing tours we are able to offer you a trip to Burundi, below are some parks to visit in Burundi.

Rusizi National Park

Rusizi National Park is located 15km north of Bujumbura city near Rusizi River just a few kilometers to the border with DR Congo. Rusizi National Park is home to hippopotamuses, statungas and Nile crocodiles among the major wildlife to see in this park.

Ruvubu National Park

Ruvubu National Park is the largest National Park in Burundi covering 508 sqkm. It is located in the Eastern part of Burundi within the provinces of Karuzi, Cankuzo, Ruyigi and Muyinga. Rubuvu National Park is another great place to see wildlife in Burundi.  Rubvubu National Park is home to a number of wildlife species and the most notable ones to see include hippos, Cape Buffaloes, Nile crocodile, waterbucks, duiker species, Leopards, Lions and primates which include olive baboons, vervt monkesy, red colobus monkesy, blue monkeys and Senegal bushbaby.

Kibira National Park

Kibira National Park also known as Parc national de kibira in French is located in the northwestern part of Burundi. The park lies along the mountains of the Congo-Nile Divide extending from the provincial town of Muramvya to the border of Rwanda near the Nyungwe Forest National Park. Kibira National Park is home to a variety of habitats ranging from areas of montane bog and bamboo stands to open grasslands creating a safe habitat to various wildlife species and plant species. There are 98 species of mammals, 200 species of birds have been recorded and a total of 644 plant species great to see on your safari in Kibira National Park Burundi.

Kigwena Natural Reserve

Kigwena Forest Nature Reserve is located in the south Wesetern Burundi near Lake Tanganyika. The reserve has a variety of vegetation species ranging from Terminalia superba, Elaies guineensis and Albizia zygia among others. Kigwena Natural Reserve is made up of Kigwena forest which is a peri-Guinean forest like the Congo Basin forest. Kigwena Forest Natural Reserve is home to 97 species of mammals including large groups of monkeys and baboons making a great place to see primates in Burundi. The reserve is also home to Hippos and snakes including Python sebae, Naja melanoleuca, Thelotornis capensis, and many species of butterflies.

What to do in Burundi on safari

Burundian Culture

Gitega is home to Burindi’s National Museum which displays the local traditions and lifestyles of Burundi people. Several karyenda royal drum sanctuaries are also located in this area as well the ibwami the royal court among other artifacts.

Education

In Gitega you also have an opportunity to film the New university which was founded in 2014, the Polytechnic University of Gitega. It gives you an opportunity to learn more about the Education in Burundi.

Places of worship

Gitega is also home of various Christian churches and temples, Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Gitega (Catholic Church), Union of Baptist Churches in Burundi (Baptist World Alliance), Province of the Anglican Church of Burundi (Anglican Communion) and Assemblies of God. There are also Muslim mosques.

Planning a Trip to Burundi for a safari with Eco Adventure Safaris

Eco Adventure Safaris will help you book your Burundi day trips and tours contact us and we advise you on the booking process. We as well have different Burundi safari packages ranging from budget, mid-range to luxury options that we can book for you including the gorilla permits. Feel free to checkout our trip advisor reviews and read from a community of happy satisfied clients. With us, you can be rest assured of a memorable Burundi safari holiday. We are devoted to providing excellent service and customer satisfaction. Our team of excellent tour consultants is always willing to help answer all your safari questions. Contact us here about how Safe is the border crossing between Rwanda and Burundi  and Planning a Trip to Burundi.