Burundi — Visas and Healthcare
Passports and Visas
A visa will be issued on arrival if there is no Burundi diplomatic representation in the traveler's country of origin. Diplomatic representation is currently available in Belgium, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan and the USA. Tourist or business visas, valid for up to 30 days, incur a fee of EUR50. Return or onward tickets, all documents required for next destination and sufficient proof of funds are recommended.
Americans
US nationals require a valid passport and visa.
UK Nationals
UK nationals require a valid passport and visa.
Canadians
Canadians require a valid passport and visa.
Australians
Australians require a valid passport and visa.
South Africans
South Africans require a valid passport and visa.
Irish Nationals
Irish nationals require a valid passport and visa.
New Zealanders
New Zealand nationals require a valid passport and visa.
Healthcare
There have been cases of cholera confirmed in Burundi. Chloroquine and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine resistant malaria is a major concern in Burundi and travelers should take the necessary prophylactics containing lariam, malarone or doxycycline. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if coming from an infected area or visiting any area outside of the main cities. Travelers should be wary of kiosk foods and drink only bottled or boiled water. Burundi's medical facilities are very basic. Travelers should ensure they have health insurance covering evacuation by air ambulance.
Safety
Travelers should consult the nearest Burundi embassy regarding the security situation before embarking on travel to Burundi. Since democratic elections and a ceasefire agreement in 2005, Burundi has returned for the most part, to a normal state of affairs and is enjoying an increasing influx of tourists. Travel to the rural border areas with the Democratic Republic of Congo should be avoided as cross border fighting by armed guerrillas from both sides occurs sporadically. Travelers should be aware of the still-active rebel group, the Forces Nationales de la Liberation (FNL), who attack government forces and civilians intermittently, but mostly travelers to Burundi tend to gravitate toward Bujumbura and therefore should be more concerned with threats such as pick pocketing, purse snatching, armed robbery and petty crime. Locals should be consulted about the presence of crocodiles and hippopotamus along the border of the lake. Travelers should also exercise caution after dark, avoid walking alone and be aware of curfew laws.
