WHEN TO TRAVEL to Burundi

Location

Climate

The different seasons in Burundi

Burundi's climate is equatorial, with moderate temperatures all year round. However, there are two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.

The rainy season

The rainy season generally extends from February to May and from October to December. During this period, rainfall is abundant and can make travel difficult, especially in rural areas. Temperatures vary between 15°C and 25°C during the rainy season.

The dry season

The dry season in Burundi runs from June to September and from January to February. During this period, the temperatures are pleasant, fluctuating between 20°C and 28°C, with cool nights. Visit dry season is the ideal time to visit the country, as weather conditions are milder, facilitating travel and tourist activities.

Major cultural events in Burundi

Beyond the country's natural beauty, Burundi's rich culture is reflected in its many festivities and ceremonies throughout the year. Here are just a few of the cultural events not to be missed during your visit:

• National Unity Day: Celebrated on February 5, the holiday commemorates the assassination of President Melchior Ndadaye in 1993, and aims to promote national unity and reconciliation between the country's different ethnic groups.
• Independence Day: July 1 marks Burundi's independence, achieved in 1962 after decades of Belgian colonization. Parades, concerts and other cultural events are held throughout the country to mark this historic event.
• Fête de la Révolution : Every year on November 8, Burundi celebrates the 1976 revolution that led to the overthrow of Michel Micombero's dictatorial regime. Demonstrations and cultural events are held throughout the country to commemorate this historic event.
• Burundi International Film and Audiovisual Festival (FICAB): This annual festival, held in September, is dedicated to the promotion of Burundian and African cinema and audiovisual arts. It attracts directors, actors and producers from all over the world, and features screenings, workshops and conferences on the 7th art.

Public holidays in Burundi

In addition to the major cultural events mentioned above, it's important to take public holidays into account when planning your trip to Burundi. Here is a list of the main public holidays in the country:

• January 1: New Year's Day
• March-April (dates vary) : Good Friday and Easter Monday
• May 1: Labour Day
• Ascension (date varies)
• Pentecost (date varies)
• July 1: Independence Day
• August 15: Assumption
• October 13: Revolution Day
• November 1: All Saints' Day
• December 25: Christmas

Low and high season in Burundi

There low season in Burundi generally corresponds to the rainy season, from February to May and October to December. During these months, there are fewer tourists, which can mean lower prices on accommodation and tourist activities. However, it is important to note that some roads may be impassable due to rainfall, and some activities, such as hiking or visiting national parks, may be compromised. Visit high season corresponds to the dry season, from June to September and January to February. During this period, the weather is generally mild, travel conditions are better and tourist activities are more plentiful. However, you should book your accommodation and activities in advance to avoid the inconvenience of crowds.

The East African country of Burundi has seen several waves of immigration over the last few decades. The most popular visas and international tourism figures reflect this dynamic.

General statistics on immigration to Burundi

According to ministerial statistical serviceThe total number of immigrants to Burundi in 2019 was around 150,000. Some of these immigrants are refugees fleeing conflicts in neighboring countries, while others come to work or study. Integrating these new arrivals represents a major challenge for the Burundian authorities, who also have to deal with border management and security issues.

Immigrant origins and age distribution

Most of Burundi's immigrants come from neighbouring countries, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Democratic Republic of Congo, THE Rwanda and the Tanzania. However, there are also nationals from other African countries and even from Europe, Asia and America. In terms of age distribution, almost half of all immigrants are between 25 and 64 years of age, while young people under 25 account for around a quarter of the population.

Most popular visas in Burundi

Burundi issues several types of visa to foreigners wishing to enter the country. Some of these are particularly popular, due to the opportunities they offer or the ease with which they can be obtained.

• Work visa: This visa is intended for people hired by a local or international company to work in Burundi. It is generally valid for up to two years, renewable under certain conditions.
• Student visa: Foreign students admitted to a Burundian higher education institution can obtain this visa to pursue their studies. The duration of the visa corresponds to that of the course of study, with a maximum limit of three years.
• Family visit visa : Family members of Burundian residents can apply for this visa to visit their loved ones. The visa is granted for a period of six months to one year.
• Tourist visa : Foreign tourists must obtain this visa before entering Burundi. It is generally issued for a period of 30 days, extendable under certain conditions.

Please note that visa applicants must comply with certain conditions and provide specific documents, depending on the type of visa requested. In addition, nationals of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays.

International tourism figures for Burundi

Despite the difficult political and economic situation, Burundi is trying to develop its tourism sector to diversify its sources of income. The authorities are focusing in particular on promoting the country's natural and cultural assets to an international clientele.

Number of international tourist arrivals

According to available data, the number of international tourist arrivals in Burundi has seen an increase in recent years. In 2018, almost 250,000 foreign visitors entered the countrycompared with around 200,000 in 2016. However, these figures remain modest compared to neighboring tourist destinations, such as the Kenya or the Tanzania.

Tourism's contribution to GDP

Tourism accounts for a relatively small share of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Burundi, with around 5 % in 2019. Nevertheless, the sector remains important for the national economy, generating foreign currency and contributing to job creation, particularly in the service sector.

Main tourist attractions

Burundi offers a number of tourist attractions likely to be of interest to foreign visitors. These include

• THE Kibira National Parkhome to a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as spectacular scenery.
• There Rusizi nature reservelocated along the Rusizi River and renowned for its hippopotamus and crocodile populations.
• THE Lake Tanganyika beachesThese include Bujumbura and Saga Beach.
• Cultural and historical sites such as the royal palace of Gitega or Bujumbura's living museum.