Burundi is a country located in East Africa, bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. While it offers beautiful landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, safety concerns need to be taken into account for travelers considering a visit to this country.
Crime is a significant issue in Burundi, and it is not uncommon for criminal activities to be committed by children. Muggings, both at gun and knifepoint, bag snatching, pick-pocketing, burglary, car break-ins, and armed car hijackings have all been reported. It is essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
One particular area of concern is walking or jogging alone, especially on roads around Lake Tanganyika. These areas pose a higher risk of assault, and it is advised to avoid them if possible, particularly after dark. In fact, it is generally recommended to refrain from walking, driving, or taking public transportation after dark anywhere in the country, including in the capital city of Bujumbura.
Even in Bujumbura city center, it is advisable to avoid walking in the streets or using public transport after dark. Carrying large amounts of money should also be avoided, as it can attract unwanted attention. It is important to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
Moreover, it is worth noting that the ongoing unrest in Burundi has severely impacted the tourism sector in the country. While the tourism industry is small but growing, the infrastructure for tourism is very poor. This means that options for transportation and accommodation for tourists are limited, making it even more crucial to plan and research thoroughly before traveling to Burundi.
Despite these safety concerns, Burundi has its own unique attractions. The country is known for its fine pottery, which locals often sell or exchange for food and other goods. Additionally, Burundi celebrates Unity Day on February 5, which was instituted by President Buyoya to emphasize the importance of unity. This serves as a reminder that unity is worth striving for in a country that has experienced its share of conflicts.
Safety should be a top priority for travelers considering a visit to Burundi. The country has significant crime rates, and it is crucial to exercise caution, especially after dark. Travelers should also be aware of the limited tourism infrastructure and plan accordingly. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to assess the risks and make an informed decision about whether or not to visit Burundi.
What Are The Dangers In Burundi?
There are several dangers that one should be aware of when in Burundi. It is important to note that crime, including criminal activity committed by children, is a concern in the country. Additionally, the risk of assault is particularly high when walking or jogging alone, especially on roads around Lake Tanganyika.
Here are some key points to consider:
1. Crime: Burundi experiences a significant level of criminal activity, with incidents involving both adults and children. It is advised to take necessary precautions and remain vigilant at all times.
2. Nighttime: Criminal activity tends to increase at night in Burundi. It is strongly recommended to avoid walking, driving, or taking public transportation after dark, both in urban areas like Bujumbura and elsewhere in the country.
3. Assault risk: Walking or jogging alone can pose a risk of assault, especially in isolated or less populated areas. It is advisable to travel in groups or with a trusted companion whenever possible.
4. Lake Tanganyika: Roads around Lake Tanganyika can be particularly risky for pedestrians due to the potential for criminal activity. It is recommended to exercise caution and avoid walking alone in these areas, especially after dark.
5. General precautions: It is always wise to take general safety precautions while in Burundi. These can include keeping valuable belongings secure, being cautious in crowded areas, and avoiding displaying signs of wealth or carrying large sums of money.
It is important to be aware of the potential dangers in Burundi. Crime rates, including criminal activity committed by children, are a concern. Nighttime poses an increased risk, and it is advisable to avoid walking or driving after dark. Additionally, walking or jogging alone, particularly on roads near Lake Tanganyika, can increase the risk of assault. Taking general safety precautions is essential to ensure personal safety while in the country.
Why Are There Not Many Tourists In Burundi?
There are several reasons why there are not many tourists in Burundi:
1. Ongoing Unrest: Burundi has been experiencing political and social unrest for many years, which has deterred potential tourists from visiting the country. The volatile situation creates a sense of instability and insecurity, making it unattractive for tourists to travel there.
2. Poor Tourism Infrastructure: The tourism infrastructure in Burundi is very limited and underdeveloped. The options for transportation, such as roads, airports, and public transportation, are inadequate and unreliable. This lack of infrastructure makes it difficult for tourists to access different parts of the country and hampers their overall travel experience.
3. Limited Accommodation Options: Burundi has a limited number of hotels and resorts that cater to tourists. The available accommodations often lack basic amenities and may not meet international standards. This scarcity of suitable accommodation options makes it challenging for tourists to find comfortable and convenient places to stay during their visit.
4. Lack of Tourist Attractions: Burundi is a small country with limited tourist attractions compared to its neighboring countries. While it does have some beautiful natural landscapes, such as Lake Tanganyika and the Kibira National Park, these attractions are not well-known or adequately promoted. The lack of diverse and popular tourist sites makes Burundi less appealing for travelers seeking a wide range of experiences.
5. Limited Marketing and Promotion: Burundi has not invested enough in marketing and promoting itself as a tourist destination. The country lacks a strong presence in international tourism campaigns and struggles to attract attention from potential tourists. Insufficient promotion and marketing efforts contribute to the low awareness and interest in Burundi as a travel destination.
The combination of ongoing unrest, poor tourism infrastructure, limited accommodation options, a lack of tourist attractions, and inadequate marketing efforts has resulted in a small number of tourists visiting Burundi.
What Are Burundi Known For?
Burundi, a small landlocked country in East Africa, is known for several notable things. Here are some key points:
1. Beautiful Landscapes: Burundi is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including picturesque mountains, lush green valleys, and scenic lakes. It offers a rich diversity of natural beauty, attracting tourists and nature enthusiasts.
2. Fine Pottery: Burundians are skilled artisans in pottery-making. Their intricate pottery designs and craftsmanship are highly regarded. These pottery items are often sold or exchanged for food and other goods, contributing to the local economy.
3. Unity Day: Unity Day is a significant event in Burundi, observed on February 5th. It was established by President Buyoya to emphasize the importance of unity among the people. This day serves as a reminder that unity is crucial and worth striving for, highlighting the country’s commitment to fostering harmonious relationships.
4. Cultural Heritage: Burundi has a rich cultural heritage, with diverse ethnic groups each contributing their unique traditions, music, dance, and folklore. The country celebrates its cultural heritage through various festivals and events, providing visitors an opportunity to experience the vibrant cultural tapestry.
5. Drumming Traditions: Drums hold great significance in Burundi’s culture. The country has a long-standing tradition of intricate and rhythmic drumming. The drumming performances are not only a form of entertainment but also an integral part of ceremonies, celebrations, and cultural rituals.
6. Coffee Production: Burundi is known for producing high-quality coffee beans. The fertile soils and favorable climate provide ideal conditions for coffee cultivation. The country’s coffee is sought after globally for its distinctive flavors and aroma.
7. Wildlife and Nature Reserves: Burundi is home to various wildlife species, including hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and a wide variety of bird species. The country has established nature reserves and protected areas to conserve its biodiversity and offer opportunities for wildlife tourism.
Burundi is known for its beautiful landscapes, fine pottery, emphasis on unity, rich cultural heritage, drumming traditions, coffee production, and diverse wildlife. These aspects contribute to the country’s unique identity and make it an intriguing destination for visitors.
Is It Safe To Travel To Bujumbura?
It is important to note that Bujumbura, the capital city of Burundi, has a significant risk of crime. Various incidents such as muggings at gun and knifepoint, bag snatching, pick-pocketing, burglary, car break-ins, and armed car hijackings have been reported. To ensure your safety while traveling to Bujumbura, it is advisable to take certain precautions.
1. Avoid walking in the streets, especially after dark: Walking in the streets of Bujumbura, even in the city center, can put you at risk of becoming a victim of crime. It is best to arrange for transportation or use trusted taxi services, particularly during the evening hours.
2. Be cautious with your valuables: Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas or public transport. Avoid displaying expensive items such as jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of money, as it may attract unwanted attention.
3. Stay vigilant in public places: Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in busy areas, markets, and tourist attractions. Stay alert for any suspicious individuals or activities that might indicate a potential threat.
4. Secure your accommodation: If you are staying in Bujumbura, ensure that your accommodation has adequate security measures in place, such as secure locks, security guards, and CCTV cameras. Consider staying in reputable hotels that prioritize guest safety.
5. Use reliable transportation: When traveling within Bujumbura, it is advisable to use trusted taxi services or arrange transportation through your accommodation. Avoid using unofficial or unmarked taxis, as they may pose a higher risk.
6. Maintain a low profile: Try to blend in with the local surroundings and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself as a tourist. Dress modestly and be respectful of local customs and traditions to minimize the risk of becoming a target.
7. Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on the current security situation in Bujumbura by regularly checking travel advisories and consulting with local authorities or your embassy. This will help you make informed decisions regarding your travel plans.
It is essential to note that these precautions are not meant to deter you from traveling to Bujumbura but rather to ensure your safety while visiting. By being cautious, aware of your surroundings, and taking necessary steps to minimize risks, you can have a safer travel experience in Bujumbura.
Conclusion
Burundi is not considered a safe destination for travelers due to various factors. The country experiences high levels of crime, with muggings, pick-pocketing, and armed car hijackings being common occurrences. The risk of assault is particularly heightened when walking or jogging alone, especially around Lake Tanganyika. It is strongly advised to avoid walking, driving, or using public transportation after dark, both in Bujumbura and throughout the country.
Furthermore, the ongoing unrest in Burundi has severely impacted the tourism sector, resulting in limited options for transport and accommodation for tourists. The tourism infrastructure is also very poor, further hindering the overall safety and experience for visitors.
While Burundi does have some cultural attractions, such as its fine pottery, the risks associated with travel to the country outweigh the potential benefits. It is crucial to prioritize personal safety and security when considering a trip to Burundi.
It is recommended to research and choose safer travel destinations instead of Burundi, where the risk of crime and instability is significantly lower.
