KARERA WATERFALLS · LAKE TANGANYIKA · MOUNT HEHA

Discover Burundi’s Hidden Gems: 10-Day Expedition

Embark on a 10-day expedition to uncover the hidden treasures of Burundi.

5.0 · 12 traveller reviews

Duration10 Days

FromUSD 1,200

CountrySafaris in Burundi

Overview Itinerary Inclusions Destinations FAQ Reviews

USD 1,200per person Book Now

THE JOURNEY

Overview

Discover Burundi through a journey that combines cultural heritage, mountain landscapes, wildlife, lakes and local experiences. Explore the history of Gitega, hike Mount Heha, cruise through Rusizi National Park and spend time beside Lake Tanganyika. From Karera Waterfalls and Burundi’s tea-growing hills to traditional dance, cuisine and community tourism, this itinerary offers a varied introduction to the country.

Trip at a glance 10 days

Route: Karera Waterfalls → Lake Tanganyika → Mount Heha → National Museum of Gitega → Rusizi National Park → Safaris in Burundi

Day 1: Gitega | History & Cultural Heritage
Day 2: Gitega to Mount Heha | Hiking Burundi’s Highest Peak
Day 3: Rusizi National Park | River Safari & Wildlife
Day 4: Lake Tanganyika | Lakeside Relaxation
Day 5: Karera Waterfalls | Forest Hike & Natural Pools
Day 6: Burundi | Local Cuisine & Markets
Day 7: Burundi | Traditional Dance & Music
Day 8: Kayanza & Ngozi | Tea Plantations
Day 9: Bujumbura | City, History & Lake Tanganyika
Day 10: Burundi | Community Tourism Experience

DAY BY DAY

Full Itinerary

DAY 1

Gitega | History & Cultural Heritage

Begin your Burundi journey in Gitega, exploring the country’s history and cultural heritage at the National Museum of Gitega. Discover traditional artifacts and learn more about Burundi’s past and cultural identity.

Dinner

DAY 2

Gitega to Mount Heha | Hiking Burundi’s Highest Peak

Set out for Mount Heha, Burundi’s highest peak. Hike through the surrounding landscape and enjoy views across the region while experiencing one of the country’s key natural landmarks.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

DAY 3

Rusizi National Park | River Safari & Wildlife

Explore Rusizi National Park near Bujumbura with a boat trip along the Rusizi River. Watch for hippos, crocodiles and birdlife while experiencing the park from the water.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

DAY 4

Lake Tanganyika | Lakeside Relaxation

Spend the day beside Lake Tanganyika, one of the world’s great freshwater lakes. Relax on the shore, swim or take a boat trip to explore the lake and nearby fishing communities.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

DAY 5

Karera Waterfalls | Forest Hike & Natural Pools

Travel to Karera Waterfalls near Rutana and hike through the surrounding greenery to reach the falls. Take in the scenery and, where appropriate, enjoy the natural pools around the waterfalls.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

DAY 6

Burundi | Local Cuisine & Markets

Discover Burundi through its food. Visit local markets and restaurants and sample dishes such as grilled meat, fish stew, plantains and beans while experiencing everyday local life.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

DAY 7

Burundi | Traditional Dance & Music

Experience an important part of Burundi’s cultural heritage through traditional dance performances. Watch energetic dancing accompanied by drumming and singing in a lively cultural setting.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

DAY 8

Kayanza & Ngozi | Tea Plantations

Explore Burundi’s tea-growing hills, particularly around Kayanza and Ngozi. Learn about tea production while taking in the rolling green landscapes surrounding the plantations.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

DAY 9

Bujumbura | City, History & Lake Tanganyika

Explore Bujumbura and visit some of its notable attractions, including the Livingstone-Stanley Monument, Independence Heroes Monument and Bujumbura Central Market. Finish with time beside Lake Tanganyika or a meal overlooking the lake.

Breakfast Lunch Dinner

DAY 10

Burundi | Community Tourism Experience

End the journey with a community-based tourism experience. Visit a rural community or take part in a homestay, creating an opportunity to learn more about everyday life and connect with local people.

Breakfast

THE FINE PRINT

What's Included

Included & not included 4 included

Included

City tours and cultural visits
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits
Accommodation
Transportation

WHERE YOU'LL GO

Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this itinerary be customised?

Yes, every trip can be tailored to your dates, budget and interests.

How do I book, and what deposit is needed?

Reserve a departure on the website or send us an inquiry for a customized engagment and payment link.

Do I need a visa and vaccinations?

Most visitors need an East African Tourist Visa and a yellow fever certificate.

TRAVELLER STORIES

What People Say

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 12 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Ian K 
 
 
 
 Verified An amazing experience
I had an amazing experience,the guide was great. Got to enjoy different places. We had different activities, water tubing,quad biking zip lining,quad biking and amazing dinners at the hotels and lodges.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   lumonya j 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing safari experience
Great eye for sighting all animals. Knowledgeable with the different parks, very hospitable, alternate and careful on the road. You won't regret.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Brad H 
 
 
 
 Verified AWESOME Experience!
This was the second time I have worked with Zacc and Paanvuu Safaris in Uganda. This time, we traveled with my wife and daughter who were making their first visit to Africa. Zacc and Paanvuu had EVERYTHING arranged perfectly so that there was nothing for us to do but enjoy an amazing experience! Safe travels, wonderful accommodations, good food, and incredible safaris. 100% recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Scenic31734850335 
 
 
 
 Verified Fantastic First Experience of Africa!
Paanvu was incredible and our driver Zaac did an amazing job at showing us some incredible sights, Safari’s, and waterfalls as well as being extremely knowledgeable about everything we got to explore! He was very positive the entire trip and took good care of us while we were able to explore the beauty of Uganda! 10/10 would go again!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Compass33176568006 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing experience
What an AMAZING experience. So glad we picked an amazing company to take us! They knew exactly where to go! Will definitely use them again!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sara 
 
 
 
 Verified Our team visited the Ewaffe Cultural Village.
Zach organized an experience for our group of seven at Ewaffe Cultural Village. It was a great day getting to participate in different Ugandan traditions and practices! Thanks, Zach!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Hannah L 
 
 
 
 Verified Really great time, very well put together!
This was my first safari ever and it was so good!! We had Zac taking us (2 ppl) and he was brilliant, super punctual and very knowledgeable about how to find specific animals on the trails. The vehicle was perfect, very comfortable to travel in but worked really well for safari too as the roof could be raised. We had so so much fun and would defo do it all over again <3
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Brad H 
 
 
 
 Verified Paanvuu and Zacc are the best!
I have been on several safaris and this one was one of the best! Zacc took great care of our entire team, answering questions, taking care of all arrangements, driving safely, and providing a great experience. We visited Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda where we took two game drives and a boat safari. We saw many animals UP CLOSE and really got to experience the best of Africa. Thanks Zacc and Paanvuu Safaris!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   evie_e_wyse 
 
 
 
 Verified Loved every moment!
Zacc was an extraordinary guide. He spotted animals and made sure we had a moment to stop along the road to have a good look and take photos. He provided information and respectfully answered all our group’s questions. Water was always available in the van. He made sure we were comfortable and enjoying the trip along the way. There were times in our trip that required careful driving. I felt entirely safe and comfortable with Zac’s driving. He was kind, fun, and a great conversationalist. I would highly recommend Paanvuu Safari and hope to use them again in the future!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Maps18765867286 
 
 
 
 Verified We did it all thanks to Zac. Got to interact with the locals and check out all the spots! Perfect.
Zac is the best guide out there. Very knowledgeable, friendly and fun to hang with on your adventure. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and showing you his beautiful country! You will not forget this experience and may even make a true friend. Highly recommend!

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Discover Burundi’s Hidden Gems: 10-Day Expedition

Overview