Burundi is physically beautiful, with verdant hills, wide plateaus and Lake Tanganyika, among the world's deepest lakes. The country has a moderately tropical climate and weather year round - the average temperature is about 24 C (75 F) - with a wet season (September-December) and dry season (January-August). The population of about 6 million is split among Hutu, Tutsi and Twa. The primary religion is Catholic, with a colonial heritage. Other prominent religions include Protestant and Islam.
The official language of Burundi is Kirundi, although French is widely spoken (and is, in fact, the administrative language). English is not widely spoken, but is gaining in popularity.
Tourism is not well-developed in the country, but Burundi has attracted some cultural attention for its drummers, who perform internationally. Burundians regard drums as sacred, representing fertility and regeneration, thereby assuring a prosperous future for the country. The economy is mostly agricultural; key crops include coffee, tea and cotton.
But the real story in Burundi is turmoil. The country continues to be torn by ethnic violence, poverty, corruption and disease. A civil war has killed more than 200,000 people since 1993. In fact, political and social instability have plagued the country since it won its independence from the controlling Tutsis in 1961. The problems are most intense in the interior and on the outskirts of the capital, Bujumbura. Few people visit Burundi for pleasure.
The country's road network is extensive - especially in the capital and between the capital and outlying provinces - and most roads are paved and in good condition. The entire north-south length of the country can be driven in less than one day.
Burundi has no subway or train, but taxis are plentiful and safe. Government buses serve most destinations, but many are old and in poor repair. Private buses also serve Bujumbura and the provinces, and are in much better condition than the government buses.
The phone system is fair, with reliable, convenient, domestic service but far less modern international service. There are no public phones on the streets. A cellular phone system is in place in Bujumbura and other cities, and is rapidly developing and gaining popularity. Cell service likely will spread fairly quickly in areas not besieged by war. Internet access is very limited, but is slowly growing. There are three radio stations and one television station (government-owned).
Bujumbura has been largely unaffected by the war, and is a relatively secure city. Do not, however, walk at night. Also, suburbs of the city are less secure than downtown Bujumbura. Avoid night driving anywhere outside Bujumbura.
For a free map of Burundi and more detailed information, be sure to click on the Destination Brief above.
Please note: the situation in Burundi can be volatile and dynamic. You are encouraged to purchase an Intelligence Brief ($7.50) or Destination Tracker ($25) for complete, up-to-the-minute information on the Country, Security and Health, Local Travel Alerts, Entry/exit requirements, Transportation, Communications/Technology, Legal and Financial situation, Environmental concerns and Language in Burundi.