Is Bujumbura Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Bujumbura has ongoing safety concerns due to political instability and crime rates. Walking alone at night is not recommended as there are occurrences of sporadic street crime, particularly after dark. It's better to take precautionary measures such as avoiding empty dimly-lit streets at night and not displaying valuables openly.

Public transport in Bujumbura predominantly consists of mini-buses and motorbike taxis. They are frequently overcrowded, sometimes to a point that could be considered unsafe. Additionally, the traffic is often chaotic and there are not always set stops for these buses. Motorbike taxis are faster but potentially riskier due to the chaotic traffic. Despite these issues, violent incidents or crimes targeting passengers are not frequently reported. It’s suitable when moving around within the city but requires caution and alertness.

While not a prevalent problem in Bujumbura, street harassment does occur occasionally, especially in busy areas. As a solo female traveler, you may receive unsolicited attention, ranging from curious stares to inappropriate comments. However, generally, locals are respectful and any issues can usually be avoided by dressing conservatively and avoiding less crowded areas, particularly after dark. Remember, street harassment can happen anywhere, so always stay alert and confident.

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching and cell phone theft are quite common in Bujumbura, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Daily vigilance and caution are needed to prevent such incidents.

Tap water in Bujumbura is generally not recommended for drinking. Despite the city's efforts to improve the water supply infrastructure, issues like inconsistent treatment, lack of regulation, and contamination risks often result in water that could potentially harm your health. Opting for bottled water or water purified with a reliable filtration system is advised for your safety.

The United States Government advises reconsidering travel to Burundi due to issues with crime, health, and political violence. It's important to note that some areas pose an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.

The Canadian Government advises to avoid non-essential travel to Burundi, except for Bujumbura Mairie, due to the risk of violent crime and political violence. Check the full travel advisory.

The Australian government advises reconsidering travel to Burundi, overall, due to the threat of terrorism and the risk of civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.