10 Days Ultimate Burundi Safari Experience

Welcome to the heart of Africa with Rwakabunga Safaris, where we invite discerning tourists to embark on an unparalleled 10-day journey through the ultimate luxurious landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Burundi. This meticulously crafted itinerary is designed for the high-end tourist, blending exclusive experiences, five-star accommodations, and personalized service to ensure a seamless and unforgettable adventure. From the tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika to the misty forests of Kibira and the rhythmic energy of the Gishora Royal Drummers, every moment is curated to showcase the very best of this captivating country in absolute style and comfort. Prepare to be immersed in the vibrant life, history, and stunning natural beauty of the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills.’

Day 1: Arrival in Bujumbura & Lake Tanganyika Serenity

Arrival at Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM) will be met with a private luxury transfer to your opulent lakeside resort. Following a delectable lunch, the afternoon is dedicated to unwinding and settling into the lavish surroundings, perhaps enjoying a private dip in the pool or a bespoke spa treatment to refresh after your journey. Later, you will be treated to an exclusive sunset cruise on the world’s second-deepest lake, Lake Tanganyika, complete with champagne and gourmet canapés served on board a private charter as the sun dips below the horizon. The evening culminates in a fine-dining experience at the hotel’s premier restaurant, enjoying the fresh catch of the day in an elegant setting.

Accommodation: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Olivia Hotel, Roca Golf Hotel

Meals: (Dinner)

Day 2: Bujumbura City and Cultural Immersion

The day begins with a sophisticated guided city tour of Bujumbura, including visits to the iconic Independence Monument and the Musée Vivant (Living Museum) for an insightful view into Burundian culture, all conducted in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. A trip to the Belvédère offers panoramic, elevated views over the city and the vast lake, providing a perfect photo opportunity before descending for a luxury shopping experience focused on exquisite local crafts and ethically sourced coffee beans. The afternoon concludes with a private, curated coffee tasting session at a high-end local café, guided by a master barista who highlights Burundi’s world-renowned arabica beans, followed by a refined dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Olivia Hotel, Roca Golf Hotel

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Rusizi National Park & Sunset Delta Safari

An early start sees tourists heading for Rusizi National Park, where a private boat safari on the Rusizi River is arranged for a premium wildlife viewing experience. This exclusive morning cruise provides a fantastic chance to spot schools of hippos, massive Nile crocodiles basking on the banks, and a spectacular array of local and migratory bird species, all before the heat of the day fully sets in. A gourmet picnic lunch is served at a scenic, pre-selected spot within the park, and the afternoon is spent on a guided nature walk in the park’s lush palm forest, focusing on the endemic sitatunga antelope, an elusive aquatic mammal, followed by a comfortable evening drive back to the city.

Accommodation: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Olivia Hotel, Roca Golf Hotel

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Transfer to Gitega & Royal Drum Sanctuary

After an early, hearty breakfast, a comfortable private transfer takes tourists towards Gitega, Burundi’s political capital, a scenic journey through the country’s rolling hills and verdant tea plantations with stops planned for photography. The highlight of the day is an awe-inspiring visit to the Gishora Drum Sanctuary, where the legendary Royal Drummers of Burundi perform an exhilarating and intimate private show, showcasing their ancient, powerful drumming tradition on sacred instruments. Following this cultural masterpiece, a visit to the Gitega National Museum offers a deep dive into the country’s colonial and monarchical history, viewing rare artifacts and historical documents before checking into your luxury lodge for the evening.

Accommodation: Tropitel Hotel Gitega, Jerusalem Hotel Gitega, Villa Mater Dolorosa

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Karera Waterfalls and Source of the Nile

This day is dedicated to exploring Burundi’s stunning natural wonders, beginning with a visit to the magnificent Chutes de la Karera (Karera Waterfalls), where tourists can enjoy a private, guided walk to appreciate the multi-tiered cascades and the surrounding lush forest environment from exclusive viewing points. Next, the itinerary takes you to the southernmost Source of the Nile River in Rutovu, a historical and geographical landmark where a specially prepared upscale lunch is served near the pyramid-shaped monument, commemorating its discovery. The return journey is an opportunity for scenic stops across the beautiful countryside, including a brief visit to a local craft market for bespoke souvenir purchases and interaction with artisans.

Accommodation: Tropitel Hotel Gitega, Jerusalem Hotel Gitega, Villa Mater Dolorosa

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Kibira National Park Primate Trekking

An adventurous day awaits in Kibira National Park, one of the last remaining high-altitude rainforests in the Great Rift Valley, renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Tourists will partake in an exclusive morning primate trekking experience with expert guides, primarily searching for habituated chimpanzees and various species of monkeys, including the handsome black-and-white colobus. The afternoon is dedicated to a specialized bird-watching excursion within the park, which is a haven for numerous Albertine Rift endemics, providing fantastic opportunities for luxury photography enthusiasts. Later in the day, a private viewing and tasting at the nearby Teza Tea Plantations are arranged, offering panoramic views of the terraced tea fields.

Accommodation: Kibira Park Lodge, Blue Bay Village, Foyer d’Accueil de Nyanza.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Scenic Transfer to Rumonge & Lake Relaxation

Following breakfast, a luxurious private transfer takes the tourists south towards Rumonge, travelling along the scenic eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika, with planned stops for breathtaking photographic views of the pristine coastline. Upon arrival, check-in is at a premium lodge near the lake, providing direct access to the warm, freshwater beaches for an afternoon of pure relaxation. The day’s activities include a private massage or spa treatment arranged at the hotel, utilizing natural local oils, followed by an evening centered around a gourmet seafood dinner featuring the local Mukeke fish, enjoyed right on the lakeshore under the stars with waves gently lapping nearby.

Accommodation: Blue Bay Village, Resort Beach Hotel Rumonge, Foyer d’Accueil de Nyanza

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Kigwena Forest & Hot Springs Immersion

The day starts with a guided nature walk through the enchanting Kigwena Forest, a small but dense reserve known for its diversity of primates, especially baboons and different monkey species, alongside a vast array of unique plant life, guided by a local expert. Following the forest immersion, the tourists will be driven to the therapeutic Muhweza Hot Springs in Rutana for a private, refreshing soak in the natural thermal waters, a unique and soothing cultural experience believed to have curative properties. A relaxed afternoon allows for sunbathing on one of Rumonge’s pristine beaches, such as Saga Beach, with dedicated waiter service for drinks and snacks, offering total tranquility and exclusive privacy.

Accommodation: Blue Bay Village, Resort Beach Hotel Rumonge, Foyer d’Accueil de Nyanza

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Return to Bujumbura & Farewell Dinner

A leisurely morning is enjoyed by the lake, allowing for a final swim or simply soaking up the tranquil atmosphere before the private, comfortable transfer back to Bujumbura. Upon arrival and check-in at the luxury hotel, the afternoon is reserved for last-minute souvenir shopping at exclusive boutiques or an indulgent final spa treatment to prepare for departure. The tour culminates with a lavish farewell gala dinner at one of Bujumbura’s most upscale rooftop restaurants, where tourists can toast their unforgettable safari experience with premium wine pairings and personalized service, reflecting on the amazing diversity of the journey.

Accommodation: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Olivia Hotel, Roca Golf Hotel

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10: Departure

After a final sumptuous breakfast at the hotel, there will be ample time for a slow check-out before a private luxury transfer conveys the tourists directly to Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM). The dedicated Rwakabunga Safaris team ensures a smooth and expedited check-in process for their outbound international flight, with VIP lounge access provided for maximum comfort until boarding. This moment marks the conclusion of their exquisite 10-day Ultimate Burundi Safari Experience, filled with treasured memories of this stunning and often-overlooked African gem.

Meals: (Breakfast)

End of the 10 Days Ultimate Burundi Safari Experience.