Bujumbura walking tour & city guide

The centre and the lake

The city centre is compact, with the cathedral, the Islamic Cultural Centre and the modern Bujumbura market, which replaced the old central market after a fire. Bicycle taxis, motorbikes and minibuses fill the streets.

Along the lake, Saga Beach and the other beaches north of the port are where the city comes to swim, eat grilled fish and watch the sunset over the mountains of Congo across the water.

A classic walk

Start at the Independence Monument and walk through the centre past the Regina Mundi Cathedral and the Islamic Cultural Centre with its tall minaret. Continue down to the port and the lakeshore, and finish at Saga Beach as the sun sets behind the mountains.

Good to know

The dry season from June to August is the best time to visit, with a shorter dry spell in December and January. The Rusizi National Park, at the mouth of the river north of the city, is home to hippos and crocodiles. Displays by the royal drummers of Gishora can be arranged near Gitega.