Burundi , Burundi

Magic Christmas Tour in Gitega

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About this experience

Meet Bujumbura’s new capital city this Christmas period! This special time brings magic Gitega city with its refreshing eco-tourism.
Together with the professional local guide, you will visit the most beautifully decorated places. You will feel spellbound with the charming atmosphere in the streets which you can feel only this time of the year!
What is the story of a village-like city being crowned as the capital of Burundi? What magical things can happen during the Christmas period? Have you heard about Gishora Drum Sanctuary? What local products are must taste at Christmas?
You will hear miraculous Christmas legends about his cultural city. You will visit Kiganda Royal Grounds, Tea Plantation in Teza, Lake Tanganyika and Kibira National Park.
Fill your heart with the joy and experience the magic of this Western Gitega city.

Available options

Magic Christmas Tour in Gitega

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Meet Bujumbura’s new capital city this Christmas period! This special time brings magic Gitega city with its refreshing eco-tourism. Together with the professional local guide, you will visit the most beautifully decorated places. You will feel spellbound with the charming atmosphere in the streets which you can feel only this time of the year! What is the story of a village-like city being crowned as the capital of Burundi? What magical things can happen during the Christmas period? Have you heard about Gishora Drum Sanctuary? You will hear miraculous Christmas legends about his cultural city. You will visit Kiganda Royal Grounds, Tea Plantation in Teza, Lake Tanganyika and Kibira National Park. What local products are must taste at Christmas? Fill your heart with the joy and experience the magic of this Western Gitega city.

What's not included

Transport from Bujumbura (You can be picked from Bujumbura at an additional $30per person)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Burundi

Burundi is a landlocked country in the Great Rift Valley where the African Great Lakes region and East Africa converge. Known for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history, Burundi offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path travel experience. The country is famous for its tea and coffee plantations, as well as its stunning natural beauty, including Lake Tanganyika, the second deepest lake in the world.

Top Attractions

Lake Tanganyika

Lake Tanganyika is the second deepest lake in the world and offers stunning landscapes, water activities, and a unique ecosystem.

Nature Full day or overnight Moderate

Kibira National Park

Kibira National Park is a lush rainforest offering hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and beautiful landscapes.

Nature Full day Moderate

Livingstone-Stanley Monument

This monument marks the meeting point of explorers David Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley in 1871.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Musée Vivant

Musée Vivant is a unique open-air museum showcasing traditional Burundian life, including thatched huts, traditional dances, and craft demonstrations.

Cultural 2-3 hours Low

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ibiharage

Steamed beans with onions and chili, often served with ugali.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Brochettes

Grilled skewers of meat, often served with a spicy sauce.

Main Dish Contains meat

Rice with Fish

Rice cooked with fish, often served with vegetables and a spicy sauce.

Main Dish Contains fish

Fresh Tropical Fruits

Burundi offers a variety of fresh tropical fruits, such as mangoes, pineapples, and passion fruits.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian/Vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kibira National Park Wildlife viewing in Ruvubu National Park Boat trips on Lake Tanganyika Beach visits in Bujumbura Visiting Musée Vivant Exploring local markets in Gitega and Ruyigi Snorkeling and diving in Lake Tanganyika Fishing in Lake Tanganyika

Best Time to Visit

June to August and December to January

These months offer the best weather with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. It's the ideal time for wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring the countryside.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Kirundi, French
Widely spoken: Swahili, English
English: Limited

Currency

Burundian Franc (BIF)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Burundi has experienced political instability and violence in the past, but the situation has improved in recent years. Exercise caution and stay informed about the current situation. Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations, as they can turn violent.

Important Precautions:

• Stay informed about the current situation
• Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations
• Be cautious when using public transport

Getting there

By air

Bujumbura International Airport • 8 km from Bujumbura city center

By bus

Bujumbura Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses and minibuses (called 'taxi-brousses') are the primary means of public transport but can be crowded and unreliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Bujumbura Gitega Ruyigi

Day trips

Kibira National Park

Approx. 80 km from Bujumbura • Full day

Kibira National Park offers lush rainforest, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.

Ruvubu National Park

Approx. 150 km from Bujumbura • Full day or overnight

Ruvubu National Park offers a diverse landscape, including mountains, forests, and rivers, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching.

Gitega

Approx. 110 km from Bujumbura • Full day

Gitega is the second-largest city in Burundi and offers historical sites, cultural experiences, and local markets.

Festivals

Umuganura (Harvest Festival) • First week of August Independence Day • July 1st Kirundi Language and Culture Festival • Varies (usually in July or August)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for the best experience when exploring national parks and cultural sites
Learn a few basic phrases in Kirundi to enhance your interactions with locals
Carry small denominations for local purchases and tips, as change can be hard to come by
Be flexible and patient when traveling in Burundi, as infrastructure and services may not be as developed as in other countries
Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of cultural and religious sensitivities