Welcome to the ultimate East African escape. Wanderwort Safaris invites you to indulge in the 12 Days Grand Burundi Wildlife and Culture Safari, a luxurious journey through one of Africa’s most enchanting and least explored destinations. From the tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika to the misty forests of Kibira, and the rhythmic heartbeat of the Gishora Drum Sanctuary to the majestic Karera Waterfalls, this itinerary blends opulence with authenticity. Expect private guides, elegant lodges, gourmet meals, and immersive cultural experiences that reveal the soul of Burundi. This is not just a safari, it’s a celebration of nature, heritage, and refined travel.
Day 1: Arrival in Bujumbura
Upon arrival at Bujumbura International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your private Wanderwort Safaris host and chauffeured to your luxury hotel. After check-in, enjoy a sunset cocktail overlooking Lake Tanganyika followed by a gourmet welcome dinner.
Accommodation Options: Kiriri Garden Hotel, Club du Lac Tanganyika, Roca Golf Hotel
Meals: (Dinner)
Day 2: Bujumbura City Tour & Rusizi National Park
Begin the day with a guided city tour of Bujumbura, visiting the Independence Monument, Livingstone-Stanley Memorial, and bustling local markets. In the afternoon, head to Rusizi National Park for a private boat safari along the Rusizi River, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and exotic birds.
Accommodation Options: Club du Lac Tanganyika, King’s Conference Centre, Mount Zion Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: Kibira National Park – Chimpanzee Tracking
Drive to Kibira National Park, Burundi’s largest rainforest reserve. Embark on a guided chimpanzee tracking experience and enjoy a serene nature walk through lush montane forest. Return to your lodge for a fireside dinner.
Accommodation Options: Kibira Eco Lodge, Kirundo Forest Retreat, Mount Heha Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Gishora Drum Sanctuary & Gitega Cultural Tour
Travel to Gitega, the cultural heart of Burundi. Visit the Gishora Drum Sanctuary for a private drumming performance and learn about this UNESCO-recognized tradition. Explore the National Museum and colonial architecture.
Accommodation Options: Hotel Tropitel Gitega, Jerusalem Hotel Gitega, Hotel Source du Nil
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Karera Waterfalls & Source of the Nile
Journey to Rutana Province to witness the breathtaking Karera Waterfalls. Continue to the Source of the Nile monument in Rutovu, a serene and symbolic site. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature before returning to Gitega.
Accommodation Options: Hotel Tropitel Gitega, Jerusalem Hotel Gitega, Mount Zion Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Kigwena Forest Reserve & Rumonge
Drive south to Rumonge and explore the Kigwena Forest Reserve, home to monkeys, baboons, and exotic flora. Visit the nearby hot springs and enjoy a beachside dinner along Lake Tanganyika.
Accommodation Options: Tanganyika Blue Bay Resort, Saga Beach Hotel, Rumonge Palm Retreat
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Lake Tanganyika Leisure Day
Spend the day unwinding on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Optional activities include kayaking, snorkeling, or a private yacht cruise. Enjoy a spa treatment and candlelit dinner at your resort.
Accommodation Options: Club du Lac Tanganyika, Tanganyika Blue Bay Resort, Kiriri Garden Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Ruvubu National Park Safari
Fly or drive to Ruvubu National Park in eastern Burundi. Embark on a luxury game drive to spot buffaloes, antelopes, baboons, and possibly lions. Enjoy a sundowner in the wild before returning to your lodge.
Accommodation Options: Ruvubu Safari Lodge, Muyinga Hills Retreat, Karuzi Wilderness Camp
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9: Cultural Immersion in Kayanza
Visit local villages in Kayanza for a hands-on cultural experience. Participate in traditional weaving, pottery, and storytelling sessions. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch and interact with local artisans.
Accommodation Options: Kayanza Boutique Hotel, Royal Palm Resort, Mount Heha Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10: Mount Heha Hike & Tea Plantation Visit
Hike to the summit of Mount Heha for panoramic views of Burundi’s highlands. Later, tour the Teza Tea Plantation and enjoy a curated tasting session of Burundi’s finest teas.
Accommodation Options: Mount Heha Lodge, Teza Valley Retreat, Kirundo Forest Retreat
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11: Return to Bujumbura
Return to Bujumbura for a day of leisure. Visit artisan markets for souvenirs, enjoy a final spa treatment, and dine at one of the city’s top restaurants with lake views.
Accommodation Options: Kiriri Garden Hotel, Club du Lac Tanganyika, Roca Golf Hotel
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 12: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Bujumbura International Airport. Your host will assist with check-in and bid you farewell. Depart with unforgettable memories and a heart full of Burundi’s warmth.
Meals: (Breakfast)
- Airport Transfers.
- Accommodation and Meals as per the itinerary.
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Services of an English-speaking tour guide.
- Park Entrance Fees.
- Burundi Cultural Experience.
- Bottled Water in the car.
- Tour Guide Allowances.
- Wildlife Game Drives.
The tour cost excludes; International air fare, Visa fees, personal travel insurance, personal shopping bills, tips to local guides, souvenirs, alcoholic drinks and items not listed as included in the cost.