9 Days Burundi Historical and Wildlife Safari

Rwakabunga Safaris is delighted to present the “9 Days Burundi Historical and Wildlife Safari,” an exquisitely crafted luxury itinerary designed for the discerning tourist seeking an immersive blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant culture in the “Heart of Africa.” This journey is an exclusive passage through Burundi’s most captivating landscapes, from the serene shores of Lake Tanganyika and the pristine wilderness of its National Parks to the royal heritage sites and historical heartlands. Guests will travel in ultimate comfort and style, enjoying private transfers, fine dining experiences, and hand-picked five-star accommodations, ensuring every moment of this African gem is experienced in absolute luxury and privacy, culminating in an unforgettable, world-class safari.

Day 1: Arrival in Bujumbura

Upon arrival at Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM), a private luxury vehicle will transfer the esteemed tourists to their opulent lakeside resort for check-in and an immediate relaxation period. The afternoon is dedicated to leisurely indulgence at the resort, perhaps enjoying a bespoke spa treatment or simply unwinding by the pool with personalized service. As the day transitions to evening, a private, champagne sunset cruise on the vast, second-deepest lake in the world, Lake Tanganyika, will offer a magnificent introduction to the country. The evening concludes with a gourmet, multi-course fine-dining experience at the hotel’s premier restaurant, focusing on the freshest local and international cuisine.

Accommodation: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Roca Golf Hotel, Kiriri Garden Hotel

Meals: (Dinner)

Day 2: Bujumbura Historical City & Rusizi Wildlife Expedition

The day begins with a sophisticated historical and cultural tour of Bujumbura, conducted in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, featuring an exclusive visit to the Livingstone-Stanley Monument, commemorating the famous explorers’ meeting. Tourists will then explore the city’s highlights, including the Independence Monument and the Musée Vivant (Living Museum) for a curated insight into Burundian arts and traditions, followed by a luxury shopping stop for high-end local crafts and ethically sourced coffee. In the afternoon, the safari element begins with a private boat excursion into Rusizi National Park, gliding along the Rusizi River delta to observe schools of hippos, massive Nile crocodiles, and numerous water bird species in their pristine, natural habitat.

Accommodation: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Roca Golf Hotel, Kiriri Garden Hotel

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Transfer to Gitega & Royal Drum Sanctuary Immersion

Following an early gourmet breakfast, a comfortable private transfer will take the tourists east towards Gitega, the historical and cultural heart of Burundi, a scenic drive that offers sweeping views of the country’s famous rolling hills and terraced landscapes. The day’s main highlight is an unforgettable, private performance at the legendary Gishora Drum Sanctuary, where the Royal Drummers of Burundi will showcase their ancient, powerful UNESCO-listed drumming ritual on sacred instruments, offering an intimate and highly personalized cultural immersion. This awe-inspiring display of rhythm, history, and athleticism is followed by an exclusive tour of the Gitega National Museum, delving deep into the country’s monarchical past and colonial history.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Source of the Nile & Karera Waterfalls Excursion

This day is dedicated to exploring some of Burundi’s most significant natural and geographical landmarks, starting with a journey to the southernmost Source of the Nile River in Rutovu, marked by a historic pyramid monument. Here, tourists will enjoy a specially prepared luxury picnic lunch, set against a backdrop of geographical significance and tranquil scenery. The adventure continues to the breathtaking Chutes de la Karera (Karera Waterfalls), where a private guided walk allows for appreciation of the multi-tiered cascades from exclusive, picturesque vantage points, ensuring both comfort and the perfect opportunity for luxury photography amidst the lush, forested environment before returning to Gitega.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Kibira National Park – Primate Trekking Adventure

An exciting day awaits with a morning private transfer to the pristine high-altitude rainforest of Kibira National Park, an area critical to the Congo-Nile Divide and a prime location for specialized wildlife viewing. Upon arrival, expert local guides will lead the tourists on an exclusive primate trekking experience, primarily in search of chimpanzees and the distinctive black-and-white colobus monkeys that inhabit this dense, misty mountain forest. The afternoon is reserved for a specialized bird-watching excursion, focusing on the numerous Albertine Rift endemic bird species that thrive in this environment, offering a tranquil yet thrilling contrast to the morning’s activities and an intimate connection with nature.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Tea Plantations & Scenic Drive to Rumonge

The day begins with a private tour and tasting at the picturesque Teza Tea Plantations, providing stunning panoramic views of the terraced, rolling tea fields and an insight into the processes of harvesting and manufacturing one of Burundi’s main exports, complete with a professional tea-tasting session. Following this sensory experience, a luxurious private transfer transports the tourists south towards Rumonge, traveling along the beautiful eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika, with planned stops at strategic points for breathtaking photography. Upon arrival in Rumonge, check-in at the premium lakefront lodge is followed by an evening of pure relaxation and a fine-dining dinner featuring the local Mukeke fish, enjoyed under the stars.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Kigwena Forest Reserve – Lake Tanganyika Beach Relaxation

The morning features a guided nature walk through the compact yet biodiverse Kigwena Forest Reserve, known for its dense tropical canopy and a chance to spot various primate species, including baboons and different types of monkeys, led by an experienced local naturalist. This gentle trek is followed by a transfer to one of Rumonge’s most beautiful and private beaches, where the remainder of the afternoon is dedicated to ultimate luxury and relaxation on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Exclusive sunbeds and dedicated waiter service will be provided for tourists to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the warm, freshwater environment of the great lake, allowing for complete rejuvenation.

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

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Return to Bujumbura & Farewell Gala Dinner

A leisurely final morning by the lake is scheduled, allowing tourists to enjoy a final swim, partake in a last spa treatment, or savor a slow breakfast overlooking the serene waters before the comfortable private transfer back to the capital, Bujumbura. Upon arrival and check-in to the city’s most luxurious hotel, the afternoon is reserved for bespoke last-minute luxury souvenir shopping at carefully selected local artisan boutiques, ensuring high-quality, authentic purchases. The entire 9-day journey culminates in a lavish, exclusive farewell gala dinner at an upscale rooftop restaurant, offering panoramic views of Bujumbura and Lake Tanganyika, complete with premium wine pairings and personalized, reflective toasts to their unforgettable African safari experience.

Accommodation: Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika, Roca Golf Hotel, Kiriri Garden Hotel

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Departure

Following a final sumptuous breakfast at the luxury hotel, there will be a relaxed check-out procedure with ample time for any last-minute personal arrangements or light activities within the hotel grounds. A private luxury transfer will then convey the tourists directly to Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM). The dedicated Rwakabunga Safaris ground team will ensure a smooth, expedited check-in process for their outbound international flight, with VIP lounge access provided for maximum comfort until boarding, marking the end of their exquisite and unforgettable “9 Days Burundi Historical and Wildlife Safari.”

Meals: (Breakfast)

End of the 9 Days Burundi Historical and Wildlife Safari.