Top Lodges to Stay in During a Burundi Safari
Burundi welcomes travelers with scenic lakes, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes. Despite its small size, the country offers many exciting activities and experiences. From lush national parks to calm lake shores, Burundi delivers peaceful yet engaging adventures. Visitors enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, cultural performances, and lakeside relaxation. The country’s capital, Bujumbura, provides luxury stays and access to nearby attractions. Whether you prefer nature walks or cultural experiences, Burundi offers something special. This guide covers top places to visit, exciting activities to try, and the top Lodges to Stay in During a Burundi Safari.
Top Places to Stay in Burundi
Hotel Safari Gate
Hotel Safari Gate sits just 500 meters from the Living Museum. It offers a peaceful stay close to the city. This hotel features a private beach, a large pool, and a stylish bar. Enjoy services like 24-hour reception, room service, and money exchange.
Each room has air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Some rooms include a seating area for extra relaxation. Start your day with a delicious breakfast served on a sunny terrace. The hotel also lies near La Tempete stadium and Parc des Reptiles. It’s ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika
Located on the lake’s edge, Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika offers beautiful gardens and a private beach. Guests relax in stylish rooms with views of the pool, lake, or garden. Rooms come with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and modern bathrooms. Free toiletries, slippers, and bathtubs add a touch of luxury.
Guests also enjoy free WiFi, a tennis court, and airport shuttle services. The hotel lies only 3 km from Bujumbura International Airport. With both beauty and comfort, this lakeside resort is great for business or vacation stays.
Dolce Vita Resort Hotel
Dolce Vita Resort Hotel sits 6 km from the Living Museum. This 4-star hotel blends modern design with calm surroundings. Enjoy views of the lake or swim in the outdoor pool. The lush garden offers a relaxing space to read or sip tea.
Rooms include air conditioning, satellite TV, and private bathrooms with robes and hairdryers. A seating area provides extra comfort after a long day. Begin your day with either a buffet or continental breakfast. A business center and ironing facilities are also available for guests. The hotel is near key sites like Big Church and Church of Jabe.
Urban Lodge
Urban Lodge provides peace just 3.3 km from the Living Museum. This lodge has a cozy garden and a warm atmosphere. Rooms include a desk, wardrobe, and garden-view patio. Air conditioning keeps you cool in the warm afternoons.
Each morning, enjoy a healthy breakfast made from local ingredients. The lodge features a bar, restaurant, and private parking. WiFi access helps you stay connected during your visit. The lodge is also near cultural sites such as the Palais des Arts and the Children’s Home.
Botanika Hotel
Botanika Hotel lies in central Bujumbura. It offers calm surroundings and top services. Relax in the hotel garden or enjoy your meal on the terrace. Rooms have flat-screen TVs, with some featuring seating areas for added comfort.
The hotel offers free WiFi and secure parking. Dine in the restaurant offering both local and international meals. Botanika Hotel sits close to shopping centers and cultural attractions, making it a great base in Bujumbura.
Things to do in Burundi
Visit Rusizi National Park
Start your journey with a trip to Rusizi National Park. This park lies near Bujumbura city. Walk along the Rusizi River, where the plains flood seasonally, attracting many animals. Watch hippos, crocodiles, and birds in their natural environment. With open landscapes and river views, nature lovers find peace and beauty here.
Hike Through Kibira National Park
Next, head to Kibira National Park, located along the Congo-Nile divide. This forested park has tea plantations and over 200 bird species. Hike through cool, misty trails and spot rare birds in the canopy. With fresh air and green surroundings, hiking here gives a refreshing experience.
Explore Ruvubu National Park
In the east of the country lies Ruvubu National Park. This area protects Burundi’s largest remaining savannah. Spot antelopes, monkeys, and various birds while walking through open plains. The Ruvubu River runs through the park, making it a beautiful spot for photography and wildlife watching.
Experience the Gishora Drum Sanctuary
For a deeper cultural experience, visit the Gishora Drum Sanctuary near Gitega. Listen to royal drummers beat large, sacred drums. These rhythms tell stories of kings and warriors. Learn about Burundi’s traditions, ceremonies, and the history of drum making. Watch lively performances that echo through the hills.
Discover the Living Museum
While in Bujumbura, stop at the Living Museum. This open-air museum showcases Burundi’s traditional lifestyle. Walk through reconstructed huts and learn about ancient tools and crafts. Observe local animals kept in the small zoo section. This place gives visitors a quick glance into Burundi’s history and culture.
Relax at Lake Tanganyika
Lake Tanganyika offers clear water, calm waves, and relaxing beaches. Swim in its fresh waters or enjoy sunbathing on soft sand. Rent a boat and sail along the lake for beautiful sunset views. Fishermen bring in fresh catches, which you can taste at nearby restaurants. The lakeside is perfect for unwinding.
Hike Mount Heha
Mount Heha is Burundi’s highest peak, standing at 2,684 meters. Hike to the summit for breathtaking views. On a clear day, see Lake Tanganyika and beyond. The hike offers good exercise and a peaceful retreat from busy towns. Bring water and take your time enjoying the scenery.
Visit Kigwena Forest Nature Reserve
Head south to Kigwena Forest Nature Reserve for a forest adventure. Walk through thick green trees, listening to birdcalls and rustling leaves. Look out for monkeys, birds, and reptiles among the trees. This reserve offers a perfect day for nature lovers wanting peace and discovery.
Enjoy Kagera Waterfalls
Kagera Waterfalls sits near the town of Karuzi. Visit this natural wonder for swimming and picnics. The water flows down rocks, creating a refreshing mist. Locals gather here to relax and enjoy cool weather. Pack snacks and enjoy lunch beside the soothing sound of water.
