Burundi Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders must apply for a visa at a Burundi embassy or consulate before traveling.
Spanish citizens require a visa to enter Burundi. Visas can be obtained on arrival at Bujumbura Airport or in advance. Due to political instability and periodic violence, check current advisories before traveling.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, visa fee in cash or e-visa, yellow fever vaccination certificate, return ticket.
Fines and potential detention.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis, Meningitis, Rabies
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Burundi has experienced political instability and violence, particularly since the 2015 political crisis. The situation has improved but remains fragile. Bujumbura is relatively calm with precautions. Avoid political gatherings and border areas. Check current advisories as conditions change.
Money & Costs
Currency
FBu Burundian Franc (BIF)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $40 · Mid: $80 · Luxury: $160+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not expected. Small tips for good service welcome.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, E, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
117 (Police), 118 (Fire)
Getting There
Main Airports
Bujumbura (BJM)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Burundi is during the dry seasons: June to August and December to January. The rainy seasons (February-May and September-November) make roads difficult. Lake Tanganyika moderates coastal temperatures.
Cultural Notes
Burundi shares cultural heritage with Rwanda, including the Hutu, Tutsi, and Twa peoples. Traditional drumming (UNESCO heritage) is a powerful cultural expression. The royal drum sanctuaries are sacred sites. Despite troubled history, Burundian culture values community and traditional values. Coffee production is economically important.
Insider Tips
Kirundi, French, and English are official languages. The Burundian Franc is the currency. Burundi is one of Africa's smallest and poorest countries. Infrastructure is limited. Lake Tanganyika offers swimming and relaxation. The country has potential for chimpanzee trekking but facilities are basic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Burundi safe to visit?
Burundi's safety situation is variable. The 2015 political crisis led to violence and instability. While conditions have improved, political tensions persist. Bujumbura is relatively calm. Border areas, particularly with DRC, carry higher risk. Check current government advisories and travel with awareness of the political climate.
What is special about Burundian drumming?
The Royal Drummers of Burundi (Tambourinaires) are a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The powerful polyrhythmic drumming on massive ingoma drums was traditionally performed for royalty and sacred occasions. The drummers combine acrobatic performance with music. This is Burundi's most famous cultural export and performances can be arranged.
Can I swim in Lake Tanganyika?
Yes, Lake Tanganyika is safe for swimming in designated areas. It's the world's second-deepest lake and remarkably clear. Bujumbura has beach areas along the lake. Be aware of bilharzia risk in some spots - ask locally about safe areas. The lake also offers snorkeling to see endemic cichlid fish and sunset boat trips.
Can I see chimpanzees in Burundi?
Burundi has a small population of chimpanzees in the Kibira National Park forest. Trekking is possible but facilities are very basic compared to Uganda or Tanzania. The chimps are not habituated like those in more developed trekking destinations. This is for adventurous travelers who don't mind rough conditions.
How does Burundi relate to Rwanda?
Burundi and Rwanda share similar ethnic composition (Hutu, Tutsi, Twa), colonial history (German then Belgian), and language roots. Both experienced ethnic violence though Burundi's has been less internationally known. The countries have different trajectories - Rwanda has developed rapidly while Burundi remains very poor. They share a border and can be combined in regional travel.