Gishora Drum Sanctuary

Gishora Drum Sanctuary and the Best Safari Experiences in Burundi

Step into the heart of Burundi’s cultural heritage with a visit to Gishora Drum Sanctuary, one of the country’s most iconic traditional sites. Nestled near Gitega, this sacred drum site offers a captivating insight into Burundi’s rich musical and spiritual traditions. Here, you can witness the powerful ritual dance of the royal drums, a UNESCO-recognized cultural treasure that blends synchronized drumming, dance, and chants into an electrifying performance.

Beyond culture, Burundi is also a hidden gem for nature lovers. The country is home to several national parks and reserves teeming with wildlife. Combine your cultural experience at Gishora with tailor-made wildlife safaris to Rusizi, Ruvubu, Kibira National Parks, and Kigwena Forest Reserve, all easily arranged by Trek Africa Expeditions.

Top National Parks and Nature Reserves to Visit in Burundi

1. Rusizi National Park – Close Encounters with Hippos and Crocodiles

Located just 15 km north of Bujumbura near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rusizi National Park offers a compact but rich wildlife experience. It is especially famous for its population of hippopotamuses, Nile crocodiles, and sitatungas—a rare aquatic antelope found in marshy areas along the Rusizi River.

2. Kibira National Park – A Haven for Birds and Primates

Stretching along the Congo-Nile Divide and bordering Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest, Kibira National Park offers a tranquil escape into Burundi’s montane rainforest. With over 98 species of mammals, 200 bird species, and 644 recorded plant species, Kibira is a fantastic destination for birdwatchers, botanists, and lovers of off-the-beaten-path adventures.

3. Kigwena Natural Reserve – Forest Walks and Primate Encounters

Located in southwestern Burundi near Lake Tanganyika, Kigwena Forest Reserve is a biodiversity hotspot. It shelters over 97 species of mammals, including baboons, monkeys, and hippos. The forest is also home to unique reptiles such as Python sebae and green mambas, along with a variety of butterflies and birds.

4. Ruvubu National Park – Burundi’s Largest Wildlife Sanctuary

Spanning over 500 sq km in eastern Burundi, Ruvubu National Park is the country’s largest protected area. It is a haven for large mammals such as buffaloes, hippos, and Nile crocodiles, as well as elusive predators like lions and leopards. The park is also home to various monkey species including red colobus, blue monkeys, and Senegal bush babies, making it ideal for primate enthusiasts.

Cultural and Historical Experiences in Gitega

While visiting the Gishora Drum Sanctuary, take time to explore Gitega, Burundi’s cultural capital:

• National Museum of Gitega: Gain insight into Burundi’s traditions, history, and tribal life through a rich collection of artifacts.

• Royal Drum Sanctuaries: In addition to Gishora, you can visit other karyenda drum sites that reflect Burundi’s royal heritage.

• Places of Worship: Gitega is home to diverse religious institutions including Catholic, Anglican, Baptist, and Muslim communities.

• Education Spotlight: Visit the Polytechnic University of Gitega, founded in 2014, to learn more about modern education in Burundi.

Planning Your Burundi Safari from Kigali

All Burundi safaris offered by Trek Africa Expeditions are fully customizable and designed to suit your travel style and budget. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip to Gishora or a multi-day wildlife safari, our expert team will take care of every detail.

Our packages include:

• Comfortable, affordable accommodations (budget to luxury)

• 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs for game viewing

• Knowledgeable and experienced driver-guides

• Flexible itineraries tailored to your interests and timing

We recommend starting your journey from Kigali, Rwanda, which offers easy access to Burundi’s top attractions.

Why Travel to Burundi with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in eco-friendly, authentic African travel experiences. Our team is passionate about conservation and community-based tourism, ensuring your safari helps protect local ecosystems and support local livelihoods.

With years of experience organizing cultural tours, wildlife safaris, and cross-border adventures, we are your trusted partner for travel in Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and beyond.

We’re also highly rated on TripAdvisor by travelers who appreciate our attention to detail, personalized service, and commitment to sustainability.

Book Your Burundi Safari Today

Ready to experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Burundi? Whether you’re planning to visit the Gishora Drum Sanctuary, go wildlife watching in Rusizi or Ruvubu, or explore the forests of Kibira and Kigwena, we’ve got you covered.

Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today to start planning your unforgettable safari to Burundi, departing conveniently from Kigali.