Burundi Travel Safety

Road safety

Roads are not marked and street lights are almost non-existent, which makes driving at night especially dangerous. You should carry multiple spare tires. During the rainy season, many roads are only accessible with four-wheel-drive vehicles. Driving habits are often more erratic and reckless than in many countries. Road conditions have greatly improved throughout the country over the last decade. Information on road security must be checked on a daily basis. You can seek advice from the UN office in Burundi (tel: +257 222 055 98). In the event of an accident, leave the scene without stopping and go to the nearest police station or, if necessary, to the hospital. There are few traffic signals, service stations and roadside assistance outside the capital. It is recommended that road travel be undertaken in a convoy of at least two vehicles. Overland travel outside of Bujumbura should be avoided in all situations.

Public transportation

Public buses (matatus) should not be used, as vehicle and road conditions are the cause of frequent serious accidents.

Taxis

The use of taxis, is discouraged, as drivers often operate within a criminal network. If the use of a taxi is unavoidable, a recommended taxi should be identified.

Women's safety

Based on the crime situation of the Burundi, women should be vigilant all the time and aware of the surroundings. Females should be cautious while dealing with strangers and acquaintances. Avoid flash of money or valuables in public. Exercise a high degree of precaution during travel.

Scams

Be aware that criminals are known to impersonate security forces and setup fake roadblocks to solicit bribes

Crime

Crime rates are high, and significantly increase after dark. Incidents of muggings at gun or knife point, armed car hijackings, robbery, purse snatching and pickpocketing occur. Crime is often committed by children. Assaults occur against people walking or jogging alone, particularly on roads around Lake Tanganyika. Avoid walking, driving or taking public transportation after dark, anywhere in the country. There are large amounts of small arms and weapons in circulation, easily available to various groups. Keep valuables, travel documents, and cash in hotel safes. Keep separate copies of important documents, including your passport.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Targets could include: government buildings, including schools, places of worshipairports and other transportation hubs and public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners. Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

LGBT

Burundi law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted can face imprisonment for 3 months to 2 years and heavy fines although there have been no prosecutions to date. LGBT people are not accepted at all in local culture. LGBT travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Togo.