Living the digital nomad lifestyle, I’m always on the lookout for destinations that blend natural wonders with rich cultural experiences – and Burundi does exactly that.
Traveling Africa as a Filipino gave way to various amazing experiences in the country. And though small, this East African gem offers plenty to explore, from lush national parks to vibrant local traditions and festivals.
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Here are five of the best things to do when you visit Burundi:
1. Go on a Burundi Safari
A Burundi safari is one of the top things to experience. Head to Ruvubu National Park or Burundi National Park to see animals like elephants, hippos, and antelopes.
These parks are great for spotting wildlife and exploring the natural beauty of Burundi. You can also visit Kigwena National Park or Rusizi National Park for more safari adventures.
Before visiting, ensure you have all the necessary permits to avoid any disruptions.
2. Visit Karera Waterfall
One of the must-see natural wonders in Burundi is the Karera Waterfall. Also known as Karera Fall, this waterfall is located in a lush, green area.
It’s a peaceful place where you can enjoy nature and take great photos. Proof of this visit will be your stunning photos of this incredible destination.
Many visitors also explore the nearby Bururi National Reserve, which offers beautiful views and more hiking opportunities.
3. Explore Bujumbura City
For digital nomads, internet access is available in many cafes around the city, making it a decent spot for some remote work while enjoying the city’s vibe.
Bujumbura City, the capital of Burundi, is a lively place with a lot to see. Visit the Musee Vivant, a museum where you can learn about Burundi’s wildlife and culture.
If you’re flying in, you’ll arrive at Bujumbura International Airport, which is close to the city center. Be sure to try some delicious Burundian cuisine, including dishes like grilled meat and fresh fish.
Don’t miss sampling the variety of bananas, a staple ingredient in the local diet.
4. Relax by Lake Rwihinda
Lake Rwihinda is a peaceful spot where you can enjoy birdwatching and beautiful lake views. It’s the perfect place to relax and connect with nature.
The lake is home to many different bird species, making it a popular stop for nature lovers. If you’re lucky, you might spot some crocodiles basking by the water’s edge.
It’s also an excellent stop for those who want a break from the fast-paced life of Italy or Germany and wish to immerse themselves in a tranquil setting.
5. Discover Burundi’s Culture and Tea Plantations
For a taste of Burundi’s history, visit the Gitega National Museum in the town of Gitega. It’s a great way to learn about Burundi’s culture and traditions.
Afterward, take a trip to the Teza Tea Plantation to see where some of the best tea in the country is grown.
You can walk through the green tea fields, hear the locals speaking French, and even taste some fresh tea. Locals may share stories in Kirundi, the national language.
Extra Adventures
If you’re one of those remote workers who have the monthly income, passport, travel luggage and insurance to keep traveling around Africa, here are some more places you should go to:
Visit nearby places like Rwanda for gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park or check out the Rwanda gorilla tours. Also, explore the shores of Lake Tanganyika, or venture to Rusizi National Park, which offers an entirely different safari experience!
You can also explore other parks like Akagera National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park. Some travelers extend their journey to Malaysia, Philippines, or Brazil for a taste of different cultures.
For those heading farther, destinations like Hong Kong and South Korea are popular stops for digital nomads seeking reliable internet and great cafes. Travelers also head to Antigua, Barbuda, or Barbados for tropical getaways.
If you’re looking for something closer to Europe, countries like the Czech Republic, Estonia, Italy, and Iceland are all excellent choices for exploration. Some of these destinations are part of the EEA, which simplifies travel and visa requirements for non-EU visitors.
For an unforgettable safari experience, consider visiting Serengeti National Park or Tarangire National Park. Some travelers also venture to the Democratic Republic for more wildlife exploration.
Those planning an extended journey may want to include Armenia, Mexico, or Barbuda in their itinerary. Before you travel, check visa and entry requirements with the embassy or consulate of your destination country.
For those seeking digital nomad visas, options are also available in countries like Estonia and Mexico, where nomads benefit from a balance of affordability, modern infrastructure, and reliable internet access.
Festivals in local communities are also a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. When you visit, make sure to enjoy these five activities to get the most out of your trip!
FAQ
Although considered one of the poorest and most densely populated countries in Africa, The Hutu, Tutsi, and Twa people combine to shape Burundi’s culture. Burundi has two capital cities: Gitega and Bujumbura. The Burundi civil war was triggered by ethnic tensions.
Some of the best countries for digital nomads include Greece, Malta, Croatia, Costa Rica, and Indonesia (Bali). Digital nomads can enjoy an affordable cost of living in places like Thailand, Mauritius, and Georgia.
Millennials make up 47% of the digital nomad population currently. A higher population of digital nomads (61%) are male and 37% are females.
