Advisory: Burundi
Issued by US Department of State

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Reconsider travel to Burundi due to crime, health, and political violence. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do Not Travel to:

• The former Central Market located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore in Bujumbura due to the risk of violent crime.  
• Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces and Kibira National Park due to potential armed violence.

Country Summary:  Violent crimes, such as assault, carjacking, home invasion, grenade attacks, and armed robbery, have been reported in Burundi. Criminals at times target foreigners and residents suspected of having large sums of cash. Local police lack the resources and training to respond effectively to crimes.

Medical services in Burundi fall well below U.S. standards, and there are no adequate trauma services in the country. Emergency medical and fire services are limited or non-existent in some areas of the country.  Even relatively minor health problems may necessitate a medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. Medical evacuation insurance valid for travel to Burundi is strongly recommended.

Although political unrest and instability in Burundi have diminished in recent years, the risk of potential violence remains. Police and military checkpoints are common and can restrict freedom of movement. Police have conducted weapon searches in the homes of private citizens. The borders may close without notice.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens throughout Burundi.  U.S. Embassy personnel are subject to restrictions when traveling in certain areas of Burundi and may be subject to other constraints as security conditions warrant.  These restrictions include limitations on all travel outside Bujumbura Mairie during hours of darkness (typically 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.).  The U.S. government may not be able to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the following areas:  the provinces of Bubanza and Cibitoke and Kibira National Park (including the park’s southernmost part in Muramvya province)

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Burundi.

If you decide to travel to Burundi:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Country Security Report for Burundi.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
• Bring a sufficient supply of over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Avoid areas where there are large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations, and exercise caution in the vicinity of any such gatherings.
• Remain aware of your surroundings and be vigilant when traveling in unfamiliar areas or outside of cities and along border areas; take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
• Consider traveling in pairs and using convoys of multiple vehicles to mitigate the risks related to traveling outside of Bujumbura. Carry additional fuel, spare tires, and provisions. Include a map, navigation equipment, and first aid kit.  Service stations are scarce in rural areas. Professional roadside assistance service is not available outside the capital.
• Prepare contingency plans for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.  

The former Central Market located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Violent crimes, such as grenade attacks and armed robbery, can occur.

The former Central Market located on Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagasore is off-limits to U.S. Embassy personnel at all times

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces and Kibira National Park – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Armed actors exploit porous borders and forested areas between Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo for movement and activities.  U.S. Embassy personnel are restricted from travel to the following areas without special permission: the provinces of Bubanza and Cibitoke and Kibira National Park (including the park’s southernmost part in Muramvya province).

Due to travel restrictions on U.S. Embassy personnel, the U.S. government may be unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.