Burundi in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Burundi
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect dry season weather with minimal rainfall - only 51 mm (2.0 inches) across 10 days, making it ideal for this destination activities and wildlife viewing at Kibira National Park
- Peak drumming season - February coincides with traditional harvest celebrations when local communities perform the famous royal drum ceremonies, especially in Gitega province
- Excellent bird watching conditions as migratory species are present alongside residents, with over 450 species visible in early morning hours when temperatures are cool
- Comfortable hiking temperatures averaging 15°C (59°F) in highland areas, perfect for trekking the Congo-Nile Divide without the exhausting heat of other months
Considerations
- Morning temperatures can drop to 2°C (35°F) in highland areas like Teza Tea Plantation, requiring warm layers that many East African travelers don't expect
- February is peak tourist season for the few visitors Burundi receives, meaning higher accommodation prices and advance booking required for quality lodges
- Afternoon thunderstorms, while brief, can be intense with strong winds - outdoor activities should be planned for morning hours only
Best Activities in February
Lake Tanganyika Beach and Water Activities
February's dry conditions make this destination's beaches perfect for swimming, kayaking, and traditional fishing boat excursions. Water temperatures reach 26°C (79°F) while air remains comfortable. Morning mist creates impressive photography conditions, and the lake's unique cichlid fish are most active in these temperatures.
Kibira National Park Primate Tracking
February's cool morning temperatures (8-12°C/46-54°F) are ideal for tracking chimpanzees and colobus monkeys when they're most active. The dry season means clearer forest paths and better visibility. Early morning tracking sessions avoid afternoon thunderstorms completely.
Traditional Drum Performance Tours
February coincides with post-harvest celebrations when master drummers perform the famous intore dance and royal drum ceremonies. The cool weather makes outdoor performances comfortable for extended viewing. Many cultural centers in Gitega host special February performances.
Congo-Nile Divide Highland Trekking
February offers perfect trekking conditions along the watershed between the Congo and Nile basins. Daytime temperatures of 15-18°C (59-64°F) at 2,000m (6,560 ft) elevation provide comfortable hiking without extreme heat. Clear skies offer panoramic views of both drainage systems.
Tea Plantation Cultural Experiences
February is harvest season at Teza and Ijenda tea plantations when workers pick the finest leaves in cool morning temperatures. Visitors can participate in picking, learn processing methods, and enjoy fresh tea tastings. The highland climate provides a refreshing break from lower elevation heat.
Rusizi National Park Wildlife Viewing
February's dry conditions concentrate hippos and crocodiles around permanent water sources, making wildlife viewing predictable and rewarding. Bird watching is exceptional with both resident and migratory species present. Cool morning temperatures make walking safaris comfortable.
February Events & Festivals
Umuganura Harvest Thanksgiving
Traditional harvest festival celebrated across rural communities in February, featuring drum performances, traditional brewing ceremonies, and communal feasting. Local communities welcome respectful visitors to witness authentic cultural practices and taste traditional sorghum beer and local delicacies.
Gitega Royal Drum Sanctuary Performances
Special monthly performances at the Royal Drum Sanctuary featuring master drummers and traditional intore dancers. February performances often include harvest blessing ceremonies and are considered among the most authentic cultural experiences available to visitors.