Things to Do in Bujumbura in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Bujumbura

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

March marks the beginning of dry season - lake activities like boat tours to Saga Beach and swimming at Plage Tanganyika are at their peak with calmer waters and clearer skies
Pleasant morning temperatures of 19°C (66°F) make early exploration of Rusizi National Park ideal - wildlife viewing is excellent as animals gather near water sources during drier conditions
March coincides with mango season - local markets overflow with varieties like 'umuneke' and 'igikoma' at rock-bottom prices (200-400 FBu per kg)
Hotel rates are 20-30% lower than June-August peak season, and you'll have major attractions like the Source of the Nile monument virtually to yourself in early morning hours

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms hit 10 days per month typically between 2-4 PM, forcing indoor activities during prime afternoon touring hours
High humidity of 70% combined with 29°C (84°F) highs makes midday outdoor activities uncomfortable - you'll be seeking shade by 11 AM
Road conditions to attractions like Chutes de la Karera can be challenging after recent rains, requiring 4WD vehicles and adding 30-45 minutes to journey times

Best Activities in March

Lake Tanganyika Boat Excursions

March's calmer lake conditions and reduced rainfall make this the ideal time for boat trips to remote beaches and fishing villages. Morning departures (7-9 AM) avoid afternoon storms and offer the best lake visibility. Water temperature is perfect at 26°C (79°F) for swimming.

Booking Tip: Book through established operators at Hotel Club du Lac Tanganyika or Source du Nil Hotel 3-5 days ahead. Expect to pay 25,000-40,000 FBu for half-day trips including transport. Ensure boats have life jackets and VHF radios - check current options in booking section below.

Kibira National Park Primate Tracking

March's drier trails and cooler morning temperatures create optimal conditions for chimpanzee and colobus monkey tracking. The 4-6 hour treks through montane forest are manageable when starting at dawn, and primate activity peaks during morning feeding times.

Booking Tip: Must book through INECN (park authority) minimum 48 hours ahead. Permits cost 15,000 FBu plus guide fees of 8,000 FBu. Groups limited to 8 people. Book early morning slots (6 AM start) to avoid afternoon heat and storms.

Bujumbura Central Market Cultural Tours

March's mango harvest transforms the central market into a sensory explosion of colors and flavors. Morning market tours (7-10 AM) showcase seasonal produce, traditional crafts, and local life before the midday heat. Perfect introduction to Kirundi culture and cuisine.

Booking Tip: Local cultural guides available at market entrance charge 5,000-8,000 FBu for 2-3 hour tours. Best Tuesday-Saturday when farmer vendors are present. Bring small bills for purchases and expect to bargain - see current guided options below.

Rusizi River Delta Bird Watching

March's receding waters concentrate waterbirds in accessible areas of the delta. Over 200 species including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and seasonal migrants. Early morning expeditions (6-9 AM) offer cooler temperatures and peak bird activity before afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Combine with Rusizi National Park entry (3,000 FBu) and hire local guides for 10,000-15,000 FBu. Bring binoculars and telephoto camera lens. Access requires 4WD during March due to muddy conditions from previous rains.

Traditional Drumming Workshop Experiences

March weather drives more cultural activities indoors, making it prime time for authentic drumming workshops with local masters. Learn traditional rhythms on 'ingoma' drums in climate-controlled venues while escaping afternoon humidity and storms.

Booking Tip: Contact cultural centers like Centre Culturel Francais or local hotels for workshop scheduling. Sessions typically 2-3 hours costing 12,000-20,000 FBu including instrument use. Book 1-2 days ahead as groups are small (6-10 people maximum).

Karera Falls Adventure Hikes

March marks the end of rainy season, creating spectacular water flow at the four-tiered Karera Falls while trails begin to dry out. The 2 km (1.2 mile) hike to the falls base is manageable in cooler morning temperatures, though afternoon storms can make return challenging.

Booking Tip: Requires 4WD transport from Bujumbura (120 km/75 miles, 2.5-3 hours each way). Local guides at falls entrance charge 5,000 FBu. Arrange transport through hotels for 80,000-120,000 FBu full day including driver. Start by 7 AM to return before afternoon storms.

March Events & Festivals

March 8

International Women's Day Celebrations

March 8th brings citywide festivities with traditional dance performances, women's craft markets, and cultural exhibitions at various venues including the Independence Square and major hotels. Excellent opportunity to witness authentic Burundian culture and purchase local handicrafts.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - afternoon storms last 45-60 minutes but can be intense with little warning

Breathable cotton or linen shirts - avoid polyester which becomes unbearable in 70% humidity and 29°C (84°F) heat

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index of 8 causes burns within 15-20 minutes of direct exposure

Waterproof day pack or dry bags for electronics and documents during unexpected downpours

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - morning dew and afternoon rains make surfaces slippery

Light long sleeves for early morning lake activities when temperatures drop to 19°C (66°F)

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - humidity increases mosquito activity, especially near lake areas

Quick-dry clothing for outdoor activities - you'll sweat more than expected in the humid conditions

Portable umbrella for sudden weather changes and intense midday sun

Water bottle with purification tablets or UV sterilizer - stay hydrated in heat while ensuring water safety

Insider Knowledge

Local buses and taxis become unreliable during afternoon storms (2-4 PM daily) - schedule important transfers for morning hours or book hotel transport in advance

March is 'ubwoba' (mango) season - locals eat mangoes before meals to aid digestion in the heat, and street vendors offer the best varieties for 200-400 FBu per piece

Most government offices and banks close early (3 PM) during storm season - handle official business before noon to avoid delays

Lake Tanganyika's water is calmest at sunrise (6-7 AM) before daily winds pick up - this is when locals go swimming and fishing, offering authentic cultural interactions