Burundi Global Health Insurance / Burundi Travel Advice

When traveling in Burundi you must be aware of societal differences and any unexpected circumstances that could arise. Below is some Burundi travel advice to keep in mind when visiting Burundi:

Please be advised that the information contained on this page is not fully comprehensive and may be liable to change without prior warning; as such you should consult a travel expert or your local embassy prior to departing on your journey.

Burundi Travel Advice

• All travel to Bujumbura Rural, Bubanza, Citiboke and Ruyigi Provinces - as well as the bordering region with the Democratic Republic of Congo – is not advised. There is a high risk of ambush - and all but essential travel to the remaining provinces – is strongly advised against. There is no travel warning for the capital – Bujumbura. You need to exercise extreme caution if you plan to travel outside the capital; there is a high threat to your well-being. If it is necessary to travel in the high risk area of Burundi you should contact the United Nations (UN) office in the country for an update of the current security situation.

• There is a potential threat from terrorism in Burundi, caution should be exercised at all times when in public places; terrorists are liable to attack locations frequented by tourists and the general public. The warning against indiscriminate terrorist attacks was heightened after several deadly explosions in Uganda in 2010, resulting in over 70 people being killed.

• After the 2010 bombings in Uganda, there was a threat made against Burundi; specifically the capital Bujumbura. All foreign nationals need to exercise the utmost caution and follow the advice from local authorities. It is recommended you avoid large social gatherings - these may be a prime target for terrorist attacks.

• Due to armed bandits in the capital Bujumbura, the lakeside road south of the port to the Club Cercle Nautique - and then the drift road which runs parallel to the lake from the Cercle Natique to the southerly end of the city - is designated as a 'no go' area. The UN office in the country has given this advice; the risk of criminal activity is very high.

• There is a high crime rate across Burundi. Street crimes involving muggings at gun and knife point do occur, along with pick-pocketing, burglary, bag snatching and armed car hijackings. Sensible measures need to be taken; avoid carrying large amounts of money and do not walk in the streets after dark. If the security in the hotel is good, you are advised to leave all essential travel documents and valuables in the safe. You should take a photocopy of all important documents and keep them separate from the originals.

• You are advised against all travel between the hours of 17.00 and 09.00 - due to the security situation and poor road conditions. Any travel between these hours may comprise your safety.

• The majority of foreign national driving licenses are valid in Burundi. However, you can only use them for the first six months after your arrival - following this period you must obtain a Burundi driving license. Be aware if you are planning to drive as many cars do not have lights and night travel is very dangerous. All drivers are strongly advised to keep doors and windows locked at all times, as the risk of car hijacking is high.

• It is advisable to check with aviation authorities in the EU and US for any restrictions or warnings about airlines that operate to and from Burundi. Safety standards in the past have been compromised by some airline operators who fly in Burundi.

• In 2009, the Burundi government introduced a new law criminalizing homosexuals in the country. If a person is convicted of breaking the Homosexual Act in the country, they could face a maximum of two years in prison and a fine.

• In advance of entering Burundi the majority of foreign nationals require a visa. When traveling across Burundi – especially Bujumbura – there are police check points. You may be required to show your passport and visa; you are advised to carry a photocopy with you at all times.

• The healthcare system in Burundi is very basic and medical facilities only provide limited treatment. If you are unfortunate enough to need critical medical care you will be evacuated by air to the nearest country with a capable medical facility. Be aware that as the patient you are liable for all payments of medical treatment received. Ensure your Burundi international heath insurance covers all medical eventualities.

• Ensure all your vaccinations are up-to-date prior to your trip. Check for any outbreaks of disease which may affect you while in Burundi.

• If you are taking US dollars with you, it needs to be currency printed after 2003, as the majority of money exchanges will not accept any US dollars older than 2003.

• Because the security situation is precarious in Burundi, it is recommended you register your presence in the county with your foreign office; information and support can be provided by them if required.

• The region of Africa where Burundi is situated has been impacted by earthquakes in the past. In recent years no fatalities were recorded, but there is always the potential risk an earthquake may affect the country.

• International governments strongly recommend you have comprehensive travel and medical insurance in place for the duration of your stay in Burundi.

Burundi Global Health Insurance

Global Health Insurance policies offered by Globalsurance can be customized to suit your individual requirements. To discuss Burundi global health insurance in detail or learn more about international health insurance plans, speak to our experienced consultants who can advise you on the most appropriate level of insurance to meet your needs: please contact us either by phone now or by filling in the simple form here.