On our 8 Days Best of Burundi Cultural and Nature Safari, you can enjoy the essence of Burundi in luxury while taking in the country’s abundant wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural legacy. This timetable is intended for people seeking depth, luxury, and authenticity. From the throbbing rhythm of royal drummers in Gitega to the tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika and the lush woods of Kibira, each day is a patchwork of meticulously organised activities, private guides, and luxurious accommodations. Whether you’re following primates in the foggy jungle or enjoying wine by a waterfall, this trip promises to be luxurious and well-cared for.
Day 1: Arrival in Bujumbura
Your luxurious escape commences at Bujumbura International Airport, where a Wanderwort Safaris representative welcomes you with a private transfer to an upscale hotel nestled along the shimmering shores of Lake Tanganyika. Unwind in your lavish suite before a private sunset cruise on the lake, complete with champagne and hors d’oeuvres as you admire the majestic views. Explore the Living Museum (Musée Vivant) with a personal guide, discovering Burundi’s wildlife and cultural artifacts, followed by a gourmet welcome dinner at your hotel’s fine-dining venue, blending French influences with Burundian flavors.
Accommodations: Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Botanika Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Bujumbura – Rusizi National Park
Indulge in a sumptuous breakfast before a private boat safari in Rusizi National Park, navigating the Rusizi River to observe hippos, crocodiles, and exotic birds in their natural habitat with an expert naturalist. Return for a gourmet lunch at an exclusive lakeside restaurant, then embark on a curated tour of Bujumbura’s highlights, including vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and the Independence Monument. The evening offers a spa indulgence at your hotel, culminating in an elegant dinner featuring fresh lake seafood and local specialties.
Accommodations: Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Botanika Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Bujumbura to Kibira National Park
After a leisurely breakfast, journey in a private air-conditioned 4×4 to Kibira National Park, a verdant rainforest sanctuary. Settle into a luxury eco-lodge and savor a gourmet lunch before a private guided trek to track chimpanzees and rare primates, immersed in the lush canopy with insights from a seasoned naturalist. Evening relaxation includes a private campfire gathering, paired with a chef-curated dinner of organic Burundian cuisine and premium wines.
Accommodations: Kibira Eco-Lodge, Tanganyika Resort, Bururi Forest Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Kibira to Gitega – Cultural Essence
Following a hearty breakfast, travel in style to Gitega, Burundi’s cultural epicenter. Check into a premium hotel and enjoy a curated lunch of local delicacies. Delve into the Gitega National Museum’s treasures of ancient artifacts and royal relics, then experience an exclusive visit to the Gishora Drum Sanctuary for a private performance by the UNESCO-listed Gishora Drummers. Dine atop your hotel’s rooftop, savoring a fusion of Burundian and international dishes under the stars.
Accommodations: Helena Hotel, Gitega Palace Hotel, Tropitel Gitega
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Gitega – Karera Waterfalls
Begin with a gourmet breakfast, then venture on a private excursion to the mesmerizing Chutes de la Karera, hiking amid cascading waterfalls with a luxurious picnic lunch of artisanal fare and fresh fruits. Afternoon brings an intimate cultural exchange in a traditional village, learning about Burundian crafts and customs from local artisans. Return for a rejuvenating spa session at your hotel, followed by a multi-course dinner highlighting farm-to-table ingredients.
Accommodations: Helena Hotel, Gitega Palace Hotel, Tropitel Gitega
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Transfer to Rumonge
After breakfast, proceed to Rumonge, a peaceful haven on Lake Tanganyika, and arrive at a luxury beachfront resort. Recline on the pristine sands or swim in the lake’s inviting waters during the afternoon, complemented by a private boat excursion for scenic views and wildlife spotting. The evening features a gourmet dinner at the resort’s open-air venue, emphasizing fresh seafood catches paired with artisanal cocktails.
Accommodations: Tanganyika Blue Bay Resort, Saga Beach Resort, Rumonge Luxury Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Transfer to Ruvubu National Park
Depart post-breakfast in a private 4×4 to Ruvubu National Park, Burundi’s premier wildlife reserve. Settle into a luxury safari lodge and launch into an afternoon game drive, encountering elephants, hippos, and diverse avian species with your expert guide. Savor a sundowner with fine cocktails amid the savannah, then return for a lavish dinner of grilled delicacies and Burundian specialties in an elegant setting.
Accommodations: Ruvubu Safari Lodge, Tanganyika Wilderness Camp, Bururi Luxury Tents
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast in the wilderness before returning to Bujumbura, pausing at the southernmost source of the Nile River near Mount Kikizi for a private guided exploration and a gourmet picnic lunch overlooking the hills. Upon arrival, relax at your luxury hotel with optional spa time or souvenir shopping assisted by your guide. Depending on your flight, partake in a light lunch at a lakeside café prior to a private transfer to Bujumbura International Airport for a fond farewell.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- 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.