Best Route from Rwanda to Burundi After Border Closure

Best Route from Rwanda to Burundi After Border Closure

Are you planning a trip from Kigali, Rwanda, to Burundi and wondering about the best alternative route after the border closure? If so, you’ll need to travel through Tanzania, as Burundi’s borders remain open with Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The recommended route is:

• Kigali to Rusumo Border (Rwanda–Tanzania) – 167 km, approximately 4 hours

• Rusumo to Kobero Border (Tanzania–Burundi) – 56 km, approximately 1 hour

• Kobero to Gitega, Burundi – 124 km, approximately 3 hours

In total, the journey takes about 8 hours, including two border crossings. Travelers will need a Tanzanian visa on arrival, which costs $50 per person, and a Burundi transit visa for $40 per person.

Why Visit Burundi?

Burundi is a hidden gem in East Africa, offering diverse wildlife, rich cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes.

Top National Parks in Burundi

• Ruvubu National Park – The largest park in Burundi, home to antelopes, hippos, and diverse bird species.

• Rusizi National Park – Famous for its hippos, crocodiles, and scenic boat rides.

• Kibira National Park – A lush rainforest perfect for primate tracking and birdwatching.

• Kigwena Forest Reserve – A great spot to see hippos, sitatungas, and Nile crocodiles.

Cultural Highlights

Burundi is famous for the Ritual Dance of the Royal Drums, a UNESCO-recognized tradition that combines synchronized drumming, dance, and song.

Top National Parks to Visit in Burundi on a Tour from Kigali

Planning a trip from Kigali, Rwanda, to Burundi? Explore the country’s stunning national parks, home to incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Here are the top parks to include in your itinerary:

1. Rusizi National Park

Rusizi National Park is located just 15 km north of Bujumbura near the Rusizi River, this park sits close to the DR Congo border. It’s a must-visit for wildlife lovers, offering the chance to see hippos, sitatungas, and Nile crocodiles in their natural habitat.

2. Ruvubu National Park

As Burundi’s largest national park, covering 508 sq. km, Ruvubu National Park is an excellent destination for wildlife safaris. Situated in the eastern part of the country, it spans the provinces of Karuzi, Cankuzo, Ruyigi, and Muyinga. The park is home to hippos, Cape buffalo, waterbucks, duikers, Nile crocodiles, and even elusive predators like lions and leopards. You can also spot primates such as olive baboons, vervet monkeys, red colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and Senegal bush babies.

3. Kibira National Park

Also known as Parc National de Kibira, this park is in northwestern Burundi along the Congo-Nile Divide. Stretching from Muramvya to the Rwandan border near Nyungwe Forest National Park, Kibira is a paradise of montane bogs, bamboo forests, and open grasslands. With over 98 mammal species, 200 bird species, and 644 plant species, it’s a fantastic place for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

4. Kigwena Natural Reserve

Situated in southwestern Burundi near Lake Tanganyika, Kigwena Natural Reserve features a forest similar to the Congo Basin. This biodiversity hotspot shelters 97 mammal species, including large groups of monkeys and baboons. Hippos are commonly spotted, along with reptiles such as the African rock python, black forest cobra, and vine snakes. The reserve is also home to a variety of colorful butterflies, making it a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts.

Things to Do in Burundi

Experience Burundian Culture in Gitega

Gitega, Burundi’s cultural capital, is home to the National Museum, showcasing traditional artifacts, history, and the way of life of the Burundian people. You can also visit the Karyenda Royal Drum Sanctuaries, where the famous Ritual Dance of the Royal Drums—a UNESCO-recognized tradition—is performed.

Learn About Education in Burundi

While in Gitega, you can explore the Polytechnic University of Gitega, established in 2014. A visit here offers insight into Burundi’s education system and academic development.

Visit Places of Worship

Gitega is a religious hub with various places of worship, including:

• The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Gitega

• The Union of Baptist Churches in Burundi (affiliated with the Baptist World Alliance)

• The Anglican Church of Burundi

• The Assemblies of God churches

• Several mosques serving the Muslim community

Why Book a Tour to Burundi from Kigali with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize unforgettable trips to Burundi, tailored to your interests and budget. Whether you’re looking for a budget, mid-range, or luxury safari, we have options to suit your needs.

What We Offer:

✅ Well-planned day trips and multi-day tours to Burundi
✅ Comfortable accommodations at top-rated lodges and hotels
✅ 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs for the best wildlife viewing
✅ Experienced guides for an informative and hassle-free experience
✅ Customizable packages, including add-ons like gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda

Check out our TripAdvisor reviews to see feedback from our happy travelers. Let us help you plan an incredible Burundi safari from Kigali—contact us today!