Where to go
Gitega
Burundi's political capital since 2019: the National Museum, the old royal capital's atmosphere, and a proper look at the highlands.
Gishora Drum Sanctuary
The most important home of Burundi's UNESCO-listed royal drumming, near Gitega — performances that shake the ground.
Kibira National Park
Montane rainforest along the Congo–Nile divide, with chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and tea estates on its edges.
Karera Falls
A chain of waterfalls in the southeast near Rutana, often combined with the Nyakazu Gorge — best in and after the rains.
Source of the Nile
The pyramid at Rutovu marking the southernmost source of the Nile, claimed for Burundi in 1934 — a great road-trip excuse.
Planning notes
Distances are short but roads are mountainous; Gitega is roughly 100 km and takes about two to three hours each way. Hire a car with driver rather than relying on buses if you want to do any of these as a genuine day trip. Southeastern destinations (Karera, Rutovu) are long days — consider an overnight in Gitega. Check current travel advice for upcountry routes before setting out.