Arriving at Bujumbura International Airport and planning to explore Burundi by car? Renting a vehicle offers flexibility, but it’s good to know what to expect with the pickup process, potential costs, and local driving conditions. This guide covers everything from finding your rental desk to understanding insurance options and navigating the roads.
Rental car desks at Bujumbura International Airport are generally located within the arrivals hall, easily accessible after you collect your luggage. You’ll typically find representatives from several companies present. While the specific companies operating at the airport can change, you can usually expect to see options from well-known international and regional providers. Be prepared to walk a short distance from baggage claim to the rental area.
The best vehicle for your trip depends on your plans. For city driving and shorter trips, an economy or compact car is often sufficient. If you intend to explore more rural areas or require extra space, an SUV is a good choice. Here’s a general idea of what’s commonly available:
| Car Class | Typical Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy | $30 - $50 |
| Compact | $40 - $60 |
| Intermediate | $50 - $70 |
| SUV | $70 - $120 |
| Luxury | $150+ |
Prices change by season and availability.
Beyond these, you’ll likely find options like convertibles for enjoying the scenery and larger vans for groups. Consider the road conditions – a vehicle with higher clearance can be beneficial if you plan on venturing off the main paved roads.
To rent a car in Burundi, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s license (often an international driving permit is also required, depending on your license’s origin), a passport, and a credit card in the renter’s name. The minimum age is usually 21 or 25, with potential surcharges for younger drivers. Rental companies will require a security deposit, which is typically held on your credit card and released upon the vehicle’s safe return. Payment is almost always by credit card; cash is rarely accepted.
Insurance can be a bit confusing. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself, while Theft Protection covers loss due to theft. Often, a basic level of insurance is included in the rental price, but it may have a high ‘excess’ – the amount you’re responsible for paying in case of damage or theft. You can reduce this excess by purchasing additional insurance at the rental desk, but carefully consider if the cost is worthwhile. Always ask the rental agent to clearly explain what is and isn’t covered by your insurance.
Road conditions in Burundi vary. Main roads are generally paved, but can have potholes. Roads in rural areas are often unpaved and can be challenging, especially during the rainy season. Toll roads are not common. Parking is available in Bujumbura, but it’s wise to be mindful of security and park in well-lit areas. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas and 80-100 km/h on highways, but these may not always be clearly marked. Defensive driving is recommended, and it’s best to avoid driving at night if possible.
It depends on your driver’s license origin. Check with the rental company and Burundi’s regulations before you travel.
Almost all rental companies require a major credit card for both payment and the security deposit.
Your insurance (CDW) will cover damage, but you may be responsible for an ‘excess’ amount. Consider reducing the excess with additional insurance.
Theft is a risk, so Theft Protection is a good idea, especially if you plan to park in less secure areas.
If you plan to explore outside of Bujumbura, an SUV with higher clearance is often a good choice due to road conditions.
Toll roads are not common in Burundi.
Report the accident to the police and the rental company immediately. Get a police report for insurance purposes.
Yes, but you’ll need to declare the additional driver at pickup and they’ll likely need to meet the same requirements as the primary driver.
The excess is the amount you pay out-of-pocket in case of damage or theft before your insurance covers the rest.
It’s generally best to avoid driving at night due to limited visibility and potential security concerns.
They are typically found inside the arrivals hall, after baggage claim.
You will likely be charged an additional day’s rental fee.