10 Best Things To Do In Bujumbura, Burundi

1. Check out the Livingstone–Stanley Monument

The Livingston-Stanley Monument is one of the top destinations to visit when you’re in Burundi. This monument is for the late explorers Dr. David Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley. The meeting of these two explorers opened central Africa to Europeans. When you visit this historic landmark, not only do you get to see the golden engravings in it, but you’ll also get to enjoy witnessing scenic nature views. The stone can be a little hard to find on your own; it would be wise to look for a tour guide.

Livingstone–Stanley Monument

Address: Ramba, Burundi

Website: Livingstone–Stanley Monument

Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)

2. Go shopping in the Central Market

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Your visit to Bujumbura would not be complete without visiting its famous Central Market. Boasting a plethora of goods from fresh produce, it’s no wonder this place is the economic heart of the city. There are a lot of products and good finds available in this expansive market. Cookware, clothes, and locally produced herbs and oils: you’ll have your hand filled with shopping bags within the day. If you’re a big fan of clothing or anything that has to do with smooth fabrics, you’ll surely love the fabric stalls in the market. The best part? It won’t even leave a dent in your pocket.

Central Market

Address: Bujumbura Mairie, Burundi

3. Swim at Bora Bora Beach Club

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Boasting a seaside experience with an exotic ambiance, Bora Bora Beach Club is one of the places to experience in the city. It’s an exceptional club surrounded by a spotless and spacious dining area, where you’ll have the perfect opportunity to feel the ocean breeze and watch the waves while enjoying good food. It also comes with an expansive outdoor pool for you to indulge. The menu offers international cuisines that will make your mouth water. If you’re a big fan of greasy food, including burgers, pizza, and fries, Bora Bora serves the best of those. Drinks are also exceptional here.

Bora Bora Beach Club

Address: Chaussee d'Uvira, Bujumbura Burundi

Website: Bora Bora Beach Club

Opening hours: 9am - 10:30pm (daily)

4. Enjoy a meal at Le Jardin Gourmand

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Le Jardin Gourmand is a courtyard restaurant that offers guests French hospitality. It’s one of the best French restaurants in the city, which is also run by a French owner. Its menu boasts international cuisines, including pasta, steaks, brochettes, curries, and salads. If you’re not on a diet, you should also indulge in its mouth-watering burger. This place will make you feel like you’re dining in France. With its open kitchen, you’ll get to watch chefs in action. If you want to enjoy good food, consider making a quick stop here.

Le Jardin Gourmand

Address: Place de l'Independence,Bujumbura, Burundi

Website: Le Jardin Gourmand

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10:30am - 5pm

5. Stop by and admire the Unity Monument

Another historic spot in the city that plays a vital role in Bujumbura’s heritage, Monument de l'Unite is a significant symbol of the reconciliation of Burundians between the Hutus and Tutsis after a long time of hostilities. This monument is an example of an architectural masterpiece done by the natives, which has a distinct inscription in it. If you plan on visiting this landmark, you’ll also have the opportunity to witness the beautiful vistas of the city as well as breathtaking scenes of Lake Tanganyika.

Unity Monument

Address: Bujumbura, Burundi

Website: Unity Monument

Opening hours: 24hrs (daily)

6. Spend a day at Saga Beach

Although Burundi is a landlocked country, there are still stunning lake beaches here that provide tourists a place to relax and enjoy a time under the sun. It might not be a white-sand beach, and it might not be able to compare to what you are used to, but the water is nice and warm, it’s a safe place to enjoy a dip, and you’ll be able to have some time to yourself. Plus, according to tourists who visited Saga Beach, the weather is just right. The best part? There are also a plethora of dining options and pubs in the surrounding area.

Saga Beach

Address: R.N.4, Bujumbura, Burundi

7. Visit the animals at Musée Vivant

Musee Vivant is a small zoo within an expansive park where you can see different animals, mostly the wild ones. When you visit, you’ll get to learn about different kinds of crocodiles, and you will know how to differentiate them. Also, there are leopards, chimpanzees, and antelopes in the zoo. You’ll have a chance to get as close as possible to the animals here, including the crocodile and cobra, with the help of the staff. Not only that, but traditional houses of the natives are also in the park.

Musée Vivant

Address: Ave du 13 Octobre, Bujumbura, Burundi

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 6pm; Sat: 11am - 6pm; Sun: 8am - 6pm

8. Have drinks at Peace and Love Bar

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

You cannot leave Bujumbura without experiencing Peace and Love Bar at least once. Opened by the famous band of music, Peace, and Love, this bar is an excellent place to indulge in cheap beers and greasy food. It’s a pleasant place to spend the night, filled with jazz music and an intimate ambiance. Most locals and tourists visit this bar whenever they want to unwind without spending too much money. Whether you’re after a drink or just in need of something to pass the time, this bar is always a great choice.

Peace and Love Bar

Address: Avenue de l'Université, Bujumbura, Burundi

Website: Peace and Love Bar

Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)

9. Regina Mundi Cathedral

Regina Mundi Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in the city, which is of significant importance to Burundians. It’s a modest, clean, and spacious religious place in Bujumbura. The church showcases a combination of simple yet unique architectural style that is complemented by stained glass artworks on its windows. Its altar is also richly designed, one which you’ll notice upon walking through the doors of Regina Mundi Cathedral. A quick stop here to pray for whatever your heart decides is never a bad idea. In that way, you can also meet locals and experience being one.

Regina Mundi Cathedral

Address: Bujumbura, Burundi

10. Buy local artwork at Kazo'zah Art

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Founded in 2012 in Burundi, Kazo'zah is an ethical fashion organization established to help the over 80% of the city’s population who are earning less than 2 USD a day. Guests will be able to appreciate local tapestry and even try on the produced clothing by the women and youth of the city. Artisans joining the organizations undergo training to strengthen their skills in a craft made from wood, fabric, local products, and the production of contemporary fashion. In this way, these locals will have more opportunities in life. Kazo'zah Art is a shopping mall that is worth your time and every bit of your penny.

Kazo'zah Art

Address: 5. Ave de La Justice, Bujumbura, Burundi

Website: Kazo'zah Art

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

A fascinating destination

Although landlocked, Bujumbura offers visitors plenty of opportunities to spend their time close to the water. With its pristine lake beaches and scenic views, cozy restaurants, and pubs, your days here are going to be full of fun. Apart from that, it’s also rich in culture, which is visible in its traditional houses, clothing, and art. A visit to Bujumbura is always a great choice!