× title-placeholder message-placeholder 🛖 TakeYourBackpack.com find your next backpacking destination covering all countries in the world extensive info per country personal stories and photos learn how to backpack like a pro Skip to main content home advisor destinations Africa Asia Europe North America South America Oceania All countries Where to go? inspiration Photos & stories World cities Famous hikes National parks Best beaches Famous festivals World wonders UNESCO sites All highlights planning search bucketlist Burundi 🇧🇮 Kibira Rainforest Trail Hike the Kibira Rainforest Trail, Burundi. Check things to see along the trail and best time to go Explore Saga Dance Festival Explore Mount Heha Trail Intro | Highlights | Map | Best time to go | Where to stay? | Details | Guide | Burundi | FAQ | What to expect when backpacking in Kibira Rainforest Trail The Kibira Rainforest Trail in Burundi is a mixed bag that’s worth considering if you’re in the area. Stretching about 12 kilometers, it offers a chance to wander through lush greenery and catch glimpses of unique wildlife, but be prepared for some steep sections that can leave you gasping for breath. Getting to the trailhead isn’t too tricky—public transport can drop you off nearby, though you might have to do a bit of walking afterward. Compared to other hikes in Burundi, like the trails around the stunning Lake Tanganyika, Kibira has its own charm with dense forests and the occasional waterfall, but it can feel less polished and more rugged. Just keep in mind that the humidity can be relentless, so pack water and maybe a snack to keep your spirits up! Discover everything you want to know in the 📖  Burundi Travel Guide . Best time to go: May – September Duration: 2 days Distance: 12 kilometers Total ascent: 1,200 meters Safety warning The current risk level for Burundi is high. Check the advice before going. Get your Burundi Travel Guide 💡 Top Highlights Best things to see along Kibira Rainforest Trail Burundi Grab your own Travelguide for only Ancient montane canopy and mossy understory — Knotty old trees draped in thick moss and epiphytes give Kibira a genuine “primeval” feel. The forest’s altitude and persistent cloud cover create a lush, soft carpet of ferns and liverworts you don’t get on lowland hikes. Bamboo cathedrals and close birdlife — Long stretches of bamboo form tunnel-like corridors that sway and creak as you pass. Those stands host specialized forest birds and lots of lively bird-song, making Kibira especially rewarding for birdwatching compared with drier routes. Primate activity and chimpanzee signs — You’re likely to hear or see colobus and other monkeys; experienced guides also find nests, feeding traces and occasional chimp calls. Direct sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the real draw is the living, breathing primate forest—tracked respectfully with locals. Mossy ravines, streams and tucked-away waterfalls — Small waterfalls and crystal streams cut through steep, fern-lined ravines. They’re not huge tourist falls, but the secluded pools and dripping walls are perfect for a quiet break and feel more intimate than most mountain treks. Cultural encounters and community-led conservation — Villagers (including forest peoples with deep traditional knowledge) often guide sections of the trail, explaining medicinal plants, hunting history and forest-use rules. That human layer—stories, practices and local stewardship—makes the hike feel like a living landscape rather than just a photo stop. Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact me. To view the map, please enable javascript Loading the map 🌍 CLICK TO FILTER city town unique site national park hike beach festival 🌤️ When to Go? Best Time to visit Kibira Rainforest Trail The Kibira Rainforest Trail is a gem in Burundi, but timing is everything. The best months to hit the trail are generally from June to September. During this period, you’ll catch the dry season, which means less mud and fewer rain showers to dodge. Expect temperatures around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)—perfect for hiking without feeling like you’re melting. If you venture outside this window, be prepared for the wet season, which runs from October to May. It can get pretty soggy, with temperatures hovering around 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F). Not ideal for a leisurely stroll when you’re squelching through mud! Pro tip: Pack some good waterproof gear, even if you’re hiking in the dry season. The rainforest has a way of surprising you with a sudden downpour. A lightweight poncho can save your day and keep your gear dry, so you can enjoy the lush scenery without worrying about your stuff getting soaked. JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 🛏️ Where to Stay? Best Places to Stay in Kibira Rainforest Trail If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option. Best hostels in Burundi Best quality hotels in Burundi 🥾 Get Your Walking Shoes Trail Details of Kibira Rainforest Trail Total Distance: The Kibira Rainforest Trail spans approximately 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles) round trip. It’s a manageable distance for a day hike, but you might want to take your time to soak in the scenery. Estimated Duration: Most hikers can expect to spend around 4 to 6 hours on the trail, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the sights or take photos. Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate. While it’s not overly technical, there are some steep sections and uneven terrain that can challenge your footing, especially if it’s been raining. Starting … read more 👉 Total Distance: The Kibira Rainforest Trail spans approximately 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles) round trip. It’s a manageable distance for a day hike, but you might want to take your time to soak in the scenery. Estimated Duration: Most hikers can expect to spend around 4 to 6 hours on the trail, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the sights or take photos. Difficulty Level: This trail is generally rated as moderate. While it’s not overly technical, there are some steep sections and uneven terrain that can challenge your footing, especially if it’s been raining. Starting Point: The trailhead is located near the town of Bujumbura. To get there by public transport, hop on a bus or shared taxi heading to the Kibira National Park entrance. The journey usually takes about an hour. Just make sure to ask the driver to drop you off at the park entrance, as it can be a bit tricky to find on your own. Major Landmarks Along the Route: Waterfalls: You’ll encounter a few beautiful waterfalls along the way, perfect for a refreshing break. Viewpoints: There are several lookout points where you can catch stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Local Villages: Keep an eye out for small villages where you might get a glimpse of local life and culture. Type of Terrain and Scenery: The terrain varies from well-trodden paths to muddy stretches, especially after rain. Expect a mix of steep inclines and flat areas. The scenery is lush and green, with towering trees and thick underbrush. The rainforest feels alive, with sounds of birds and rustling leaves all around. Typical Vegetation and Wildlife: Vegetation: The forest is rich with diverse plant life, including giant ferns, bamboo, and various hardwood trees. Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys swinging through the trees, colorful birds, and maybe even some butterflies flitting about. You might also spot smaller mammals if you’re lucky. Make sure to bring enough water and snacks, as there aren’t many facilities on the trail. A good pair of hiking boots is essential, given the muddy spots. And don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to capture the natural beauty of Kibira! ⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that’s off, I’d love to hear from you,so I can update it for fellow travelers. ✈️ Get your own digital guidebook Burundi Travel Guide Discover the best Burundi has to offer — handpicked hikes, must-see cities, hidden gems, local festivals, and more. All in one handy downloadable pdf Burundi 113 pages full of highlights ✅ Why visit & When to go ✅ 50 must-see highlights ✅ 5-day country itinerary ✅ Top hikes & National parks ▼ More inside ✅ Best areas to stay ✅ History of country & cities ✅ Essential phrases & customs ✅ Key festivals & Events ✅ Money, food & transport Get your Guide Now Start planning today! 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Explore Burundi Kibira Rainforest Trail isn’t the only highlight in Burundi. Explore all what Burundi has to offer. 🌆 Cities        Compare the top best cities : Bujumbura, Gitega, Ngozi, see all 🏡 Towns        Compare the top best towns : Gisozi, Nyanza-Lac, Rumonge , see all ⭐️ Unique sites        Compare the top best wonders : Karera Waterfalls, Gishora, Mikeno, see all 🏞️ National parks        Compare the top best parks : Kibira, Lake Tanganyika Nature Reserve, Ruvubu , see all 🚶‍♀️ Hikes        Compare the top best hikes : Karera Waterfalls Trail, Kibira Rainforest Trail, Mount Heha Trail, see all 🏖️ Beaches        Compare the top best beaches : Lake Tanganyika, Saga Beach, Nyanza Lac Beach, see all 🎎 Festivals        Compare the top best festivals : Burundi Film, Bujumbura International Jazz, JAMAFEST , see all Explore Burundi ✈️ Ready to Go? Kibira Rainforest Trail FAQ Get your own 2025 guide book for Burundi The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure. Burundi Grab your own Travelguide for only How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Kibira Rainforest Trail? Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus. Best hostels in Burundi Best quality hotels in Burundi What should I pack for a backpacking trip to Burundi? Burundi’s climate is a mix of tropical and temperate, with warm days and cooler nights, especially in the highlands around Bujumbura. The rainy season is from October to May, so a lightweight rain jacket is a smart move. If you’re exploring the countryside or climbing Mount Heha, be ready for muddy trails. When it comes to cultural expectations, dressing modestly is important—think long skirts or pants and covered shoulders in more rural areas. Keep it practical and respectful, and you’ll blend in just fine. Apart from this country specific advice, I have also crafted a general packing list that should help on any trip. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere. Money & Documents Passport, visa (originals + some photo copies) Passport photographs Credit and debit cards (on world profile) Cash (US$ or €) Money belt Vaccination proofs Clothing Light, quick-dry clothing No jeans, too heavy Ultralight rain/wind jacket Thermo underwear Quick-dry towel Sunglasses Electronics Mobile phone + charger Power bank Travel adapter Local sim card (buy it on arrival) Health Toothbrush Deo Sunscreen, lips sunburn Anti-diarrhea Paracetamol Vitamin C Blister plasters Iodine (for desinfecting wounds) Anti-mosquito (DEET) Bit of emergency toilet paper Nail scissors Others Small number lock Waterproof packing cubes (for dirty clothes) Deck of cards(!) Ear plugs Travel pillow Spare glasses/contacts Kobo reader Moneybelt “Best way to carry your important documents” Light Backpack “Handy, lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who travel light” Large Backpack “Waterproof large lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who want to bring a lot” Outlander daypack “Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack, available in many colours” Carry on Backpack 40L “Whenever you can, travel with just carry-on luggage, saves costs and makes traveling much easier” Quick dry pant “Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling” Light rain jacket “Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry” Thermo underwear “Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets” Quick dry towel “Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling” Travel adapter “Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs” Number lock “No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories” Packing cubes “Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest” Travel pillow “Light and great for flights and long bus journeys” Lightweight, small mosquito net “Easy to carry, great for those nights where mosquitos are all around you” Kobo Reader “For reading 1.000s of books while carrying only one” Power bank “Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more” DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlogging Camera “The camera for quick videos while traveling” Waterproof action camera “Great action camera for outdoor active enthousiasts” Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D Compact Camera “When you need a large optical zoom (e.g. for safaris), look no further. The Lumix has a massive 20-1200mm zoom lens” Go Pro “The absolute champion in action videos” Ultra light tent “With only 1.08kg (2.38 pounds) this one is just the best you can get.” Ultra light sleeping airbed “Ultra light, still very comfortable and isolating!” Vitamin C “Vitamin C pills to compensate for less balanced food” Blister Plasters “Blister plasters for those long hikes” Iodine “Iodine for self desinfecting small open wounds” Mosquito repellant “Let‘s give those mosquito‘s no chance with 98% DEET” Got more questions? See the FAQ for all questions and answers for backpacking in Burundi. I 💚 feedback Final Thoughts As you wander the Kibira Rainforest Trail, soak in the lush greenery and the sounds of nature—it’s a hidden gem that feels like a world away from the usual tourist spots. Keep an eye out for the playful monkeys; they’re the best surprise! Just a heads up, the trails can get muddy after rain, so sturdy shoes are a must. Trust me, you’ll want to enjoy every step. 🫱 Share this page 🙋‍♂️ Give feedback last page update: 23 November 2025 Take  Your  Backpack Home Advisor Destinations Inspiration Planning Search To sign up for the nesletter, please enable javascript STAY UP TO DATE Sign up for the newsletter Africa Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Côte d’Ivoire Dem. Rep. of the Congo Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Eswatini Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Madagascar Malawi Mali Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Republic of the Congo Réunion Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Asia Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Türkiye (Turkey) Turkmenistan United Arab Emirates Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Europe Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia & Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czechia (Czech Republic) Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Türkiye (Turkey) Ukraine United Kingdom Vatican City State North  America Antigua and Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Belize British Virgin Islands Canada Cayman Islands Costa Rica Cuba Dominica Dominican Republic El Salvador Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Haiti Honduras Jamaica Martinique Mexico Nicaragua Panama Puerto Rico Saint Barthélemy Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Sint Maarten Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands United States United States Virgin Islands Oceania American Samoa Australia Cook Islands East Timor Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Palau Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Timor-Leste Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu South  America Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Curaçao Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Cookies | About me To use these links, please enable javascript © takeyourbackpack.com | Contact To contact me enable javascript