Burundi is a landlocked country in East Africa, situated just by the African Great Lakes and the Great Rift Valley. It is home to the Tutsi, Hutu, and Twa people, who have been living here for over 500 years. It is one of the smallest countries in Africa.
The origin of the country can be traced back to the Kingdom of Burundi in the 16th century, when it was ruled by a traditional monarch. The present lifestyle of the country's population reflects much of those old habits.
People in Burundi depend largely on rural activities like farming and grazing cattle. A visit to this country will tell you about the rustic and simple way of life of the indigenous people of Africa. They are very warm and friendly, and spending a day in their midst is an absolute delight. But just to be on the safe side, before you leave, you should buy travel medical insurance in case of any unexpected mishaps.
Burundi Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
With medical insurance, you won't have to bear additional medical expenses in case you are sick or injured while traveling to a foreign country.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Burundi?
You do not have to compulsorily buy Burundi travel medical insurance before traveling to Burundi. However, you will feel more secure if you have medical insurance on vacation.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Burundi?
Just in case you fall sick in Burundi due to exertion, or you are injured in some way because of local conditions, you won't have to meet the additional cost of medical care if you have travel medical insurance.
It will cover the cost of treatment, as well as the cost of evacuation, because medical facilities in Burundi are not very good. Make sure your insurance has these terms.
Things to Do for Travelers in Burundi
Although Burundi is a small country, there are quite a few things to enjoy here.
A Tour of Museums at Gitega
A trip to Gitega is sure to be a fun as well as a very educational experience. The museums here preserve the country's history through various manuscripts, artifacts, and even maps. There are many relics from the ancient kingdom of Burundi, excavated by modern explorers. There is also a game reserve nearby. The accommodations here are quite good and suitable for all kinds of budget.
Drum Show at Gishora
Gishora is best known for its drum show, performed by the locals. The drums play a very important part in Burundi, whether to create music during festivals or to scare away predators. The rustic, tribal music is sure to give you a rush of adrenaline.
Relaxing at Saga Beach
The Saga Beach comes alive with both locals and tourists on the weekends. At other times, it is a great place to relax. While it is not one of the most spectacular beaches you might have seen, it is one of those places where nature speaks to you. A swim in the warm waters is just what you need after a tiring day.
Safari at the Kibira National Park
Unfortunately, most of Burundi's natural vegetation has been replaced by commercial plantation, and the country has suffered from heavy deforestation. The Kibira National Park is one of the few forested areas and is home to some very rare species of birds. You can also take a tour of the surrounding tea plantations right beside the park.
Trek to Mount Heha
If you want to indulge in some adventure, then head for Mount Heha, which is the highest point in the country. There are many trails here suitable for hiking and trekking. The view of the surrounding landscape once you reach the top is breathtaking.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Burundi
Here are some of the things to watch out for on your trip to Burundi, although it is a relatively safe country to travel to.
Natural disasters
Burundi's disaster-response capabilities are nowhere near what you're used to in the west. Extreme weather or even a mild earthquake will eventually lead to sudden roadblocks, and you can end up being stuck in a particular area for days until the roads are cleared.
Scams
Burundi is a third-world country, and the poor here often scam tourists for extra money. ATM scams are the most common, so be very careful while handling money in public places. Taxi drivers also try to charge you extra for a ride, so find out about the actual fares.
Diseases
Most of the illnesses here are caused due to water. Burundi faces scarcity of water almost year-round, and the water is not always purified enough. Avoid drinking water from open street taps, and carry your water from the guesthouses you are staying in.
Before You Travel to Burundi - Do These
- Stay updated with the local news to ensure that the Al Shabaab group has not threatened any terrorist activities.
- Carry basic medication for diarrhea and stomach disorders, because the risk of stomach problems in Burundi is fairly high due to scarcity of water and improper water treatment.
- Look up the location of banks in Burundi where you can use your ATM or debit cards. Avoid using any roadside ATM due to the high risk of scams.
- Find out about local weather conditions, as sudden bouts of heavy rainfall results in floods and landslides in the region.