Burundi
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 14.4 million people live in Burundi, on 27,834 km². The capital is Gitega.
- Capital
- Gitega
- Population
- 14,390,003
- Area
- 27,834 km²
- Official languages
- French, English, and Kirundi
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in Burundi?
Sockets take plug type C/E, at 220 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in Burundi?
Call 112 for police, ambulance and fire.
Do you tip in Burundi?
Round up, or leave small change.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Burundi?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in Burundi?
Prices are in Burundian Franc (BIF).
What language do they speak in Burundi?
Official languages: French, English, and Kirundi.
How do I call a number in Burundi from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +257.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
