8 Days of Drums, Falls & Lake Horizons

Arriving at Bujumbura International Airport (Melchior Ndadaye International), you will be warmly received by your driver-guide, who will assist with immigration and luggage before a short transfer to your hotel, just 15–20 minutes away. After check-in and a brief rest, the late afternoon invites you to the palm-fringed Saga Beach on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Here, golden sands meet gentle waves, creating a serene welcome to Burundi. As the sun dips low, enjoy dinner at Tanganika Blue Bay Resort or Le Café Gourmand, sampling freshly grilled Mukeke fish while watching the lake shimmer in the fading light.

of the nation’s sovereignty, before venturing into the Central Market, where colorful textiles, handwoven baskets, and fresh produce create a vibrant scene. The journey continues to the Livingstone–Stanley Monument at Mugere, standing on the edge of Lake Tanganyika at the spot where two legendary explorers are believed to have met in 1871. Returning to the city, you will visit the National Museum or Geological Museum, exploring ethnographic collections and natural history exhibits. End the day with a lakeside dinner, accompanied by soft Burundian music.

Following an early breakfast, set out for Rusizi National Park, a short 20-minute drive from central Bujumbura. A guided game drive takes you through sandy trails where hippos laze in the water, crocodiles bask on riverbanks, and sitatungas quietly graze. A boat ride along the Rusizi River offers close-up encounters with the park’s abundant birdlife and river dwellers. Return to the city for lunch, then enjoy the afternoon at leisure, perhaps strolling the lakeshore or sipping coffee at a local café. The evening concludes with dinner at the Belvedere Restaurant, offering panoramic views of Bujumbura.

After breakfast, leave Bujumbura for Gitega, the political capital, driving through scenic hills and banana groves over a distance of about 120 km (2.5 hours). On arrival, visit the Gitega National Museum, home to Burundi’s most comprehensive cultural collection. Just a short drive away is the Gishora Drum Sanctuary, founded by King Mwami Mwezi Gisabo, where you will witness a powerful performance of the famous Burundian drums — their rhythm echoing through history. Spend the night in Gitega at Tropitel Gitega Hotel, enjoying a quiet dinner in the highlands.

Begin with an early breakfast and head to Rutana Province (about 2 hours) to explore the stunning Karera Waterfalls, a series of four cascades surrounded by lush greenery. After some light hiking and photography, continue to Rutovu to visit the Source of the Nile, marked by a pyramid monument. Enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to Gitega in the late afternoon. The evening will be spent relaxing at your lodge, with dinner served in a peaceful setting.

Today’s journey takes you into Burundi’s cool highlands. After breakfast, travel towards Teza and Rwegura to explore the rolling green tea plantations. Learn about tea cultivation and enjoy tasting freshly brewed highland tea. Continue to Kibira National Park, a lush rainforest that serves as an important water catchment for the country. Accompanied by a park guide, take a nature walk in search of colobus monkeys, colorful birds, and medicinal plants. Return to Gitega or proceed to overnight in a countryside lodge.

After breakfast, begin the drive back to Bujumbura, stopping en route at local craft markets for souvenirs such as handwoven mats, pottery, and wood carvings. Upon arrival, check in to your lakeside hotel. The afternoon is free for relaxation — lounge by the pool, stroll along the beach, or take an optional sunset boat cruise on Lake Tanganyika. Dinner is served at a lakeside restaurant, with the fresh lake breeze setting the perfect tone for your final evening.

Your last morning begins with a leisurely breakfast, followed by free time for a final swim or a quick visit to the Village Market for last-minute shopping. After lunch, transfer to Bujumbura International Airport for your departure flight, leaving with lasting memories of Burundi’s warmth, beauty, and cultural richness.