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08 May 2024
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Burundi
Burundi is a landlocked East African country bordered by Rwanda to its north, Tanzania to its east and south, and Congo to its west. The capital of Burundi is Bujumbura. The country is one of the smallest countries in Africa with a predominantly mountainous terrain, a lot of lush greenery and wildlife, and coffee and tea plantations. Its countryside features wildlife such as antelopes, crocodiles, and hippopotamuses.
The country has a generally high elevation which produces relatively cool temperatures. There is a short dry season in the country from May to August. The best time to visit Burundi is during this dry season. Generally, one should wear light clothing, sweatshirts, jackets, scarves (for the breeze) in Burundi.
The original inhabitants of Burundi were the Twa people, but they now make up only about 1% of the population with the rest of Burundi made up of Hutus and Tutsis: these are the three ethnic groups whose home is Burundi. The Hutu and Tutsi share some cultural elements and a common language (kirundi) although they remain separate groups.
The Burundians are known for their very groovy, energetic drum beats (an integral part of their culture) and their graceful dancers. Crafts such as basket weaving are an important part of Burundian culture as well. Staple ingredients in Burundian cuisine include plantains, maize, sweet potatoes, cassava, etc.
Although Burundi isn't exactly known for its riches, it does have a number of fascinating locations to offer visitors. Some of such locations are:
- Kibira Park: This primeval rain forest was once a sacred reserve for the kings of Burundi to hunt. It is home to over 190 species of birds, a lot of chimpanzees, baboons, tailed monkeys, etc. Now, it is a protected area for the preservation of wildlife.
- Bujumbura City: There is some good in the fact that this small city has not developed much over the years as it is the perfect place for one to experience (first hand) the characteristics Burundi retained from the French who colonized it. Some of these characteristics are the excellent cuisine, drink, and nightlife.
- Lake Tanganyika: This lake is situated in Bujumbura. It is an African Great Lake, the second oldest freshwater lake in the world, the second largest (by volume), and the second deepest. It is the deepest lake in Africa and probably the chief tourist attraction in Burundi. One may dive, stay on the shores and partake in a number of relaxing and fun activities whilst viewing the animals,etc.
- Rusizi River National Park: When the plains surrounding the Rusizi river are flooded (and this happens periodically), hundreds of animals come out to drink from the river. Prominent amongst these visitors are hippopotamuses and they are probably the main attraction of the park. This river is just on the outskirts of Bujumbura.
- Gitega National Museum: Gitega is Burundi’s second city and the city this museum is situated in. The museum houses hundreds of historic artifacts from Burundi’s past and is a perfect site to discover the history of this African country.
90% of the Burundian population is employed in the Agriculture sector and cattle, for them represent health, happiness, and prosperity.
Accommodation in Burundi ranges from standard to luxury depending on your budget.
