Safety and security

Civil unrest

Burundi has experienced political instability in recent years. The situation remains volatile and sporadic outbreaks of violence and civil unrest continue to occur. Grenade attacks are common, and often politically motivated. Travellers should limit their movements, avoid large gatherings and remain vigilant at all times.

Terrorism

There's a general threat from terrorism in Burundi. Al-Shabaab has previously made public threats against Burundi and has claimed responsibility for attacks in Kenya and Uganda.

Kidnapping

There's a high risk of kidnapping near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Armed groups operate in this area. Cross-border incursions by rebel groups also occur.

Crime

Crime levels are increasing in Burundi and muggings at gun and knife point, burglary, and armed car hijackings have all been reported. Travellers should take sensible precautions: 

• Arrange guards for homes and stay at hotels that have good security
• Don't carry credit/debit cards, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
• Don't carry your passport unless absolutely necessary. Keep copies of important documents, including your passport and visa, separately and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don't use ATMs after dark, especially if you're alone. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business.
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.
• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafés, train and bus stations.
• Avoid walking in the streets after dark, even in Bujumbura city centre

Reporting crime

If you're a victim of a crime while in Burundi, report it to the local police immediately. And you can contact us at the Irish Embassy in Dar es Salaam if you need help.

Driving

If you're planning to drive in Burundi, you should be extremely careful and avoid driving outside of Bujumbura after dark. Any travel outside Bujumbura should take place in a convoy of at least two vehicles.

If you want to drive:

• Bring your full Irish driver's licence and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught
• Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you're stopped at traffic lights

Hiring a vehicle

If you're hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you're allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms.

Homosexuality

Homosexual acts are illegal. We advise travellers to exercise caution and discretion.

Photography

You should request permission before taking photographs of military installations, airports, and government buildings.

Health

Get travel and medical insurance

Before travelling, the Department strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs. You should check any exclusions and, in particular, that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

Vaccinations

Check what vaccinations you may need for your trip at least eight weeks before you travel. We can't advise you on vaccinations, but you can get information about vaccinations from your local GP or an International Health and Travel Centre.

Evidence of vaccination (in the form of a certificate) can be a requirement for entry to some countries.

Medication

Make sure you bring enough medication for your entire trip and for any unexpected delays. You may wish to also bring copies of your prescription in case you lose your medication.

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Visas (business or tourist) can be obtained on arrival at Bujumbura Airport, and any land or maritime entry points. A month-long visa costs $90 and a 3 day-long visa costs $40. For further information on visas, contact the Burundi Embassy in London or the Burundian Embassy in Kigali (+250 252 575512) if you are travelling from Rwanda.

Passports

Your passport should be valid for the duration of your proposed stay. Check with your travel provider to ensure your passport and travel documents meet their requirements.

It's advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you when travelling to Burundi and you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times during your stay.

If your passport is lost or stolen while you’re abroad, we can help by issuing you an emergency travel document that will get you home.

We'll do our best to help you as quickly as possible but this can take some time. Your location and circumstances may limit the help we can give you. As Ireland does not have an Embassy or Consulate in Burundi there may be additional complications in issuing an emergency travel document.

Irish citizens should contact the Embassy in Dar es Salaam to find out what is needed to apply for an emergency travel document. They Embassy can advise on the fees which apply.

Money

The economy in Burundi is cash-based and credit cards are not widely accepted. While some ATMs can be found, they are unreliable and not secure to use. Euros and US dollars printed after the year 2003 are the most easily-exchangeable currencies.