Burundi travel advice

Travelers are advised against all travel to Bujumbura Rural, Bubanza, Citiboke and Ruyigi Provinces as well as the border areas with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). For the remaining Provinces we advise against all but essential travel. There are no warnings against visiting the capital Bujumbura. The security situation across Burundi has stabilised and the last remaining rebel group was officially disarmed on 21 April 2009. The threat of ambush by bandits remains high. We advise against all travel between 17:00 and 09:00 partly due to the security situation and partly due to the condition of the roads.

On 31 December 2007, a French aid worker for ACF (Action Contre la Faim) was killed and another injured when a gunman opened fire on their vehicle in the Ruvigi region, about 170km east of Bujumbura.

Travellers are advised against all travel to the rural border areas with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This is because cross-border incursions by armed guerrillas operating from both countries still occur sporadically.

Travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

Visas are required for visits to Burundi and must be obtained in advance of travel.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel