Burundi is infamous to many outside of the country who only have bad memories of the genocide in neighbouring Rwanda and the decade-long civil war that brought the country to its knees and crippled it in every way possible. Since peace and stability have been tentatively restored in 2005, the Burundi capital city of Bujumbura has become a symbol of hope and inspiration to the rest of Africa and the world. One can only hope that reconciliation and economic recovery goes from strength to strength in this war torn country because its capital city has much to offer the international community.

Bujumbura is sprawled along the banks of the iconic Lake Tanganyika and is approximately a day’s drive north of the Tanzanian city of Ujiji. With a population of nearly half a million people, it is safe to say Bujumbura is busy. Since 2005, the city has indeed gone from strength to strength with a rise in the number of hotels built since then. These hotels have set a new standard in holiday living in an effort to attract foreign visitors; coupled with decent amenities and warm, friendly hospitality, many of these establishments have earned themselves good reputations. With Lake Tanganyika in such close proximity, many visitors can enjoy a number of fun-filled water sports and beach bars while they discover the beauty and charm of the local beaches.

Germany colonised Bujumbura in the early parts of the 19th century and much of this time period is still prevalent in the architecture found around the inner city including the likes of the Postmaster’s House. Other attractions here include 3 museums and an Islamic Cultural Centre. A popular tourist destination is the colourful Central Market Square, which is undoubtedly the best market in the country. For a truly African experience, visitors are urged to spend time down at Central Market Square.