2-Day Thrilling Bujumbura & Rusizi National Park Tour

2 Days

Discover the charm of Burundi on this 2-Day Thrilling Bujumbura & Rusizi National Park Tour, a brief yet enriching getaway that perfectly blends cultural exploration with scenic wildlife experiences. Ideal for travelers with limited time, this tour offers a captivating introduction to the country’s vibrant capital and its nearby natural treasures.

Begin your journey in the lively city of Bujumbura, where a guided city tour reveals a mix of history, culture, and local life. From bustling markets to the relaxing shores of Lake Tanganyika, you’ll experience the unique atmosphere that defines this lakeside capital.

The adventure continues at Rusizi National Park, where a scenic boat cruise along the Rusizi River offers unforgettable encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife in a მშვიდ and picturesque setting.

This short yet memorable tour is perfect for those seeking a balance of city discovery and nature, delivering a refreshing and authentic Burundian experience in just two days. As you conclude this 4-Day Thrilling Nature & Cultural Burundi Tour, you'll have nailed the country's top spots – Rusizi's wildlife, drums, tea, Nile source, and Tanganyika lake vibes.

Cost per person:

Starting from: $1050 (Mixed Accommodation) per person based on two travelers sharing

 1 Person2 People3 People4 People5 People6 People
Jan-April$1700$1050$850$750$650$550
May-August$1900$1250$1050$950$850$750
Sept-Dec$1800$1150$950$850$750$650

Cost Per Child (Discount)

Age0-2 years old3-6 years old7-10 years old11-13 years old14+ years old
Discount Rate100%65%50%15%0%

 

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Mixed Lodges
  • English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Italian, and Chinese speaking guides
  • Safari Van/ 4X4 Landcruiser
  • 1-100 people
  • 1-90 years old
  • January - December
  • Melchior Ndadaye International Airport
  • Melchior Ndadaye International Airport

Why This Tour?

2-Day Thrilling Bujumbura & Rusizi National Park Tour

Get ready for a quick Burundi blast in Bujumbura and Rusizi! Our 2-Day Thrilling Bujumbura & Rusizi National Park Tour kicks off with a Bujumbura city tour – markets, monuments, and lakeside vibes. Then head to Rusizi National Park for a thrilling boat cruise spotting hippos and more on the Rusizi River. Experience Burundi's urban and wild highlights in this short tour!

Burundi Tours

You will visit Bujumbura City and Rusizi National Park. Burundi.

The 2-Day Thrilling Bujumbura & Rusizi National Park Tour is a short yet immersive escape that perfectly captures the spirit of Burundi—blending urban charm with serene wildlife experiences along one of Africa’s most scenic waterways.

Your journey begins in the vibrant lakeside capital of Bujumbura, where a guided city tour introduces you to the heartbeat of the country. As you explore bustling markets, colonial-era architecture, and lively neighborhoods, you’ll gain insight into Burundi’s culture, history, and daily life which is an unforgettable welcome to Burundi.

The following day shifts from urban exploration to tranquil wilderness as you head to the nearby Rusizi National Park. Here, the highlight is a peaceful yet thrilling boat cruise along the Rusizi River, where nature unfolds at its own gentle pace. Glide through calm waters surrounded by lush vegetation while spotting pods of hippos, crocodiles basking along the riverbanks, and an incredible variety of bird species that thrive in this rich ecosystem.

As you gently glide along the calm waters of the Rusizi River, the journey unfolds through a lush corridor of reeds, palm trees, and riverine vegetation. The atmosphere is tranquil, broken only by the sounds of birdsong and the occasional splash in the water. Almost immediately, you’ll begin to spot pods of hippos partially submerged, their eyes and ears just visible above the surface, while others lounge along the banks in the warm sun.

Crocodiles can often be seen basking quietly at the water’s edge, blending seamlessly into their surroundings, while the river’s rich ecosystem supports a remarkable variety of birdlife. From colorful kingfishers darting across the water to herons, egrets, and fish eagles perched nearby, the boat ride is a paradise for bird enthusiasts and photographers alike.

The experience is not only about wildlife—it’s also about the scenery. As the river winds its way toward Lake Tanganyika, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, with distant hills and open skies creating a serene backdrop. Depending on the time of day, the golden reflections of sunrise or sunset add a magical touch to the journey.

Guided by experienced local boat operators, the ride is both safe and informative, with insights shared about the park’s ecosystem and the behavior of its wildlife. Whether you’re seeking peaceful moments in nature or exciting wildlife sightings, a boat ride on the Rusizi River offers an unforgettable highlight of any visit to Burundi.

The experience is both relaxing and captivating, offering close-up encounters with wildlife in their natural habitat while enjoying the quiet beauty of the river. It’s a refreshing contrast to the vibrant city explored the day before and provides a deeper appreciation of Burundi’s natural treasures.

As the 2-Day Thrilling Bujumbura & Rusizi National Park Tour concludes, you leave with a well-rounded impression of Burundi—where culture, scenery, and wildlife come together effortlessly in just two memorable days.

Highlights

  • Boat Cruise
  • Bird Watching
  • City Tour

Tour Plan

  • Day
    01

    Arrive In Burundi | Transfer To A Hotel In Bujumbura | City Tour

    On arrival in Burundi, you will be welcomed and picked up by our Kubwa Five Safaris guide, who will be holding an A4 paper with your name printed on it at Melchior Ndadaye International Airport and be transferred to Bujumbura City.

    You will enjoy a short city tour of Bujumbura to discover some of the city's historical monuments and landmarks while learning about the culture and daily life of Burundi.

    You will then be transferred to your hotel where you will check in and do some relaxing for the rest of the day to wear off the jet lag.

    Meals and overnight at Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika.

  • Day
    02

    The Last Day With Us | Travel To Rusizi National Park | Boat Ride | Transfer To The Airport | Fly Back Home

    After having a delightful breakfast, you will be transferred to Rusizi National Park. You will have a boat ride upon arrival.

    10 Top Reasons Why You Should Visit Burundi

    During the cruise, it is possible to observe hippos, crocodiles and many species of birds in their natural habitat, as well as the famous junction of the river Rusizi and Lake Tanganyika.

    You will then be transferred to Melchior Ndadaye International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

    All good things must come to an end, and your time with us on safari in Burundi will now draw to a close. We're sure that you've had a wonderful time.

Inclusions

  • Services of an expert guide
  • Airport transfer (Airport pick up and drop off)
  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Ground transportation (4×4 safari Landcruiser / minivan with pop-up tops)
  • Full board accommodation and en route meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Park fees and relevant government taxes.

Exclusions

  • Airfares
  • Visa fees
  • Personal insurance
  • Expenses of personal nature, such as drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, and cigarettes
  • Accommodation and meals not indicated in the itinerary

Accommodation

Throughout this exciting journey, you will be accommodated in a variety of accommodations.

The accommodation is appropriate and will be determined by your budget. Kubwa Five Safaris offers the best service at every level. Kubwa Five Safaris reserves the right to substitute comparable or superior accommodations. If an equivalent standard hotel is not available, Kubwa Five Safaris may substitute the next best quality hotel or suggest a superior for an additional fee. Hotels and lodges provide free Wi-Fi.

Please see the list below for more information on the safari lodges in each national park/destination included in this tour package.

How to Get There

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Melchior Ndadaye International Airport.

Kubwa Five Safaris will cater for your Airport/Hotel transfers i.e pick-ups and drop-offs provided they are to happen within your safari days with us.

Visa Applications

Please write to us for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is included in the safari package cost?

The cost covers all accommodations, meals as specified, park entrance fees, game drives, boat cruises, guide services, and ground transportation throughout the safari.

3. What should I pack for this 2-day safari?

Essentials include lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. A full packing list will be shared upon booking.

4. Is this safari suitable for families with children?

Yes it is.

5. What type of accommodations are provided?

We use clean, safe, and comfortable lodges. All accommodations have private self-contained rooms; bathrooms are inside the rooms/tents.

6. Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. We cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please let us know your preferences in advance.

7. How physically demanding is the safari?

The safari requires moderate physical fitness.

8. Is travel insurance required?

Yes. We strongly recommend that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

9. What is the group size?

Our private safari is tailored to provide an intimate and immersive experience for small groups. We accommodate groups of 4 to 24 travelers, ensuring that each participant receives personalized attention and a unique safari experience.

10. Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, we can tailor this safari to fit your schedule, interests, or accommodation preferences. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Why You Should Visit Burundi?

  • Burundi

Visiting Burundi offers a unique and deeply rewarding travel experience for those seeking authenticity, culture, and unspoiled natural beauty. Often overlooked, Burundi is one of Africa’s hidden gems—rich in tradition, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Burundi remains largely off the mass tourism map, meaning, fewer crowds and more intimate experiences, genuine interactions with local communities and a chance to explore Africa in its raw, unfiltered form.

Frequently Asked Question about Burundi

  1. Where is Burundi located?

Burundi is a small landlocked country in East Africa, bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It lies along the northeastern shores of Lake Tanganyika.

2. What wildlife can I see in Burundi?

While not a typical safari destination, Burundi offers unique wildlife experiences:

  • Ruvubu National Park – buffaloes, antelopes, primates
  • Rusizi National Park – hippos, crocodiles, birds
  • Bururi Nature Reserve – chimpanzees and forest species

3. What cultural experiences are available?

Burundi is rich in traditions:

Experience local dances like the Intore

Visit Gishora Drum Sanctuary for traditional drumming

Explore National Museum of Gitega