A visa will be issued on arrival if there is no
Burundi diplomatic representation in the traveller's country of origin. Tourist or business visas, valid for up to 30 days, incur a fee of US$80 or US$40 respectively. 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.
Health
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.
