What are the best travel insurance options for Burundi in 2025?

Partner logo
17€
Partner logo
12€
Partner logo
19€
A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard updated on July 16, 2025
Table of Contents
  • The best travel insurance plans to Burundi
  • Is it currently safe to travel to Burundi?
  • Is travel insurance required by law to enter</b> Burundi?
  • Why Take Out Travel Insurance for Burundi?
  • What travel insurance for Burundi should cover
  • The cost of travel insurance for Burundi
  • How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Burundi?
  • Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Burundi?
  • FAQ
icon

Travel insurance for Burundi: key takeaways

1. Definition: Travel insurance for Burundi covers medical costs, emergency evacuation, and trip disruptions.
2. Warning: The U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to Burundi.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is essential due to limited local medical facilities.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Burundi typically costs between $40 and $80.
5. Good to know: Verify your policy covers travel to destinations under a "Do Not Travel" advisory.

icon

Why trust HelloSafe?

HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Burundi.

The best travel insurance plans to Burundi

Contract we recommendMedical reimbursement limitOur view
HelloTravel Premium$1M USDOur top recommendation for travel to Burundi, excellent for serious emergencies.
- high medical limit
- repatriation
- global claims support
Cap Assistance 24/24$1M USDGood match for Burundi, with responsive support and simple procedures.
- 24/7 helpline
- no deductible
- evacuation included
Tourist Card$500K USDCompact package for tourism in Burundi, easy and efficient.
- emergency assistance
- medical coverage
- suitable for short visits
Travel Pass Monde$700K USDComprehensive contract for longer trips, ideal for uncertain contexts.
- hospital coverage
- repatriation
- multi-country protection
Globe Partner$300K USDCost-effective solution with basic medical protection for Burundi.
- medical expenses
- repatriation
- civil liability
Globe Traveller$500K USDPractical option for most US travelers to Burundi, focused on essentials.
- fast reimbursement
- medical limits
- core guarantees
Recommended travel insurance contracts and their features.
HelloTravel Premium
Medical reimbursement limit
$1M USD
Our view
Our top recommendation for travel to Burundi, excellent for serious emergencies.
- high medical limit
- repatriation
- global claims support
Cap Assistance 24/24
Medical reimbursement limit
$1M USD
Our view
Good match for Burundi, with responsive support and simple procedures.
- 24/7 helpline
- no deductible
- evacuation included
Tourist Card
Medical reimbursement limit
$500K USD
Our view
Compact package for tourism in Burundi, easy and efficient.
- emergency assistance
- medical coverage
- suitable for short visits
Travel Pass Monde
Medical reimbursement limit
$700K USD
Our view
Comprehensive contract for longer trips, ideal for uncertain contexts.
- hospital coverage
- repatriation
- multi-country protection
Globe Partner
Medical reimbursement limit
$300K USD
Our view
Cost-effective solution with basic medical protection for Burundi.
- medical expenses
- repatriation
- civil liability
Globe Traveller
Medical reimbursement limit
$500K USD
Our view
Practical option for most US travelers to Burundi, focused on essentials.
- fast reimbursement
- medical limits
- core guarantees
Recommended travel insurance contracts and their features.
? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

Is it currently safe to travel to Burundi?

As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to reconsider travel to Burundi due to political instability, violent crime, and health challenges affecting several regions.

Here are their four main recommendations.

  • Security risks: violent incidents persist, especially in areas such as Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces and near the former Central Market in Bujumbura. Armed robberies and attacks on vehicles outside main cities occur with little warning.
  • Health risks: medical care is far below US standards, with no reliable trauma services outside the capital. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, and diseases like malaria and cholera are common throughout the year in places such as Makamba and Gitega.
  • Legal constraints: photographing police, government buildings, or military sites is strictly prohibited anywhere in Burundi. Violation of these laws can lead to fines or arrest.
  • Environmental hazards: tap water is not safe to drink; use sealed bottled water only. Severe rainy season flooding can cut road access to towns like Rumonge and Makamba.

Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Burundi.

Is travel insurance required by law to enter Burundi?

No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for US citizens to enter Burundi.

The US Department of State strongly recommends travel insurance due to the limited availability of quality medical care, the high risk of emergencies, and the potentially high costs of evacuation and treatment in Burundi. Medical care is below US standards, and emergency services are often unavailable outside Bujumbura.

According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Burundi. This is mainly because of the challenging security environment and costly medical evacuations.

Why Take Out Travel Insurance for Burundi?

It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Burundi.

Medical costs can be significant in Burundi, where public hospitals like CHUK in Bujumbura often lack modern equipment and essential medicines. Foreign travelers sometimes rely on private clinics, such as Kira Hospital in Bujumbura, where costs for treatment, overnight stays, or even basic procedures can quickly become expensive and advance payment is standard.

Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the United States if a serious issue arises.

Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Burundi.

Example of medical treatmentCost at Kira HospitalCovered by travel insurance
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection2,000,000 BIF (about $650 USD)up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)1,200,000 BIF (about $390 USD)up to 100%
I need to be repatriated18,000,000 BIF (about $5,800 USD)up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)3,400,000 BIF (about $1,100 USD)up to 100%
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection
Cost at Kira Hospital
2,000,000 BIF (about $650 USD)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)
Cost at Kira Hospital
1,200,000 BIF (about $390 USD)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I need to be repatriated
Cost at Kira Hospital
18,000,000 BIF (about $5,800 USD)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)
Cost at Kira Hospital
3,400,000 BIF (about $1,100 USD)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%

These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.

It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.

What travel insurance for Burundi should cover

Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Burundi.

Main coveragesExplanations and recommendations
? Medical expensesPays for treatment if you become ill or are injured.
Recommended minimum limit: $100,000.
? Medical evacuation & repatriationCovers transport to another country or back to the US after a serious incident.
Recommended minimum: $150,000.
? Emergency assistanceAccess to a 24/7 hotline for help with local healthcare or legal issues.
A global assistance service is recommended.
? Prescription medicationRefunds the cost of drugs needed during travel.
Suggested minimum: $2,500.
? Baggage loss or theftCompensation for lost or stolen luggage.
Advised minimum: $2,000.
✈️ Trip cancellation/interruptionPays if you cancel or cut short your trip due to covered reasons.
Recommended: $4,000 to cover flights and key bookings.
? Personal liabilityCovers damages you may accidentally cause to others.
Suggested minimum coverage: $50,000.
You must format your output as a JSON value that adheres to a given "JSON Schema" instance.
? Medical expenses
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for treatment if you become ill or are injured.
Recommended minimum limit: $100,000.
? Medical evacuation & repatriation
Explanations and recommendations
Covers transport to another country or back to the US after a serious incident.
Recommended minimum: $150,000.
? Emergency assistance
Explanations and recommendations
Access to a 24/7 hotline for help with local healthcare or legal issues.
A global assistance service is recommended.
? Prescription medication
Explanations and recommendations
Refunds the cost of drugs needed during travel.
Suggested minimum: $2,500.
? Baggage loss or theft
Explanations and recommendations
Compensation for lost or stolen luggage.
Advised minimum: $2,000.
✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption
Explanations and recommendations
Pays if you cancel or cut short your trip due to covered reasons.
Recommended: $4,000 to cover flights and key bookings.
? Personal liability
Explanations and recommendations
Covers damages you may accidentally cause to others.
Suggested minimum coverage: $50,000.
You must format your output as a JSON value that adheres to a given "JSON Schema" instance.

Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards usually has low coverage limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.

The cost of travel insurance for Burundi

Trip durationTraveler’s ageIndicative price per person
1 week25 years old$56
2 weeks45 years old$95
1 month35 years old$135
1 month70 years old$220
1 week
Traveler’s age
25 years old
Indicative price per person
$56
2 weeks
Traveler’s age
45 years old
Indicative price per person
$95
1 month
Traveler’s age
35 years old
Indicative price per person
$135
1 month
Traveler’s age
70 years old
Indicative price per person
$220

These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.

icon

Good to know

The cost of your travel insurance is influenced by several key details: your age, the trip's duration, your destination, and chosen options like cancellation coverage. Keeping these factors in mind is crucial for selecting the right plan, ensuring you get the protection you need for your travels at a fair price.

? It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.

? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Burundi?

Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Burundi while keeping good coverage:

CriteriaWhy it mattersExpert tip
? Trip durationThe length of your stay directly impacts the insurance premium you will pay.Choose coverage that matches your exact travel dates and avoid overpaying for unused days.
? Number of travelersFamily or group plans can lead to better rates versus individual contracts.Bundle policies for all travelers, as insurers often provide discounts for groups or families.
? Geographic coveragePlans vary in rates depending on the level of global or regional protection required.Restrict coverage to the African region rather than global plans to reduce your premium.
? Level of coverageMedical costs in Burundi can escalate quickly if evacuation or hospitalization is needed.Select a policy with the appropriate limit for medical and evacuation, avoiding extra high ceilings.
? Baggage protectionBaggage coverage adds cost but may be unnecessary for light or low-value travel.Lower or exclude baggage coverage if you are not traveling with expensive items.
?️ DeductiblesHigh deductibles decrease your premium but increase your out-of-pocket expenses.Opt for a higher deductible only if you are able to pay some costs up front in an emergency.
? Traveler’s ageOlder travelers often face a price jump for coverage.Check age-banded rates; Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62.
Key criteria for choosing travel insurance.
? Trip duration
Why it matters
The length of your stay directly impacts the insurance premium you will pay.
Expert tip
Choose coverage that matches your exact travel dates and avoid overpaying for unused days.
? Number of travelers
Why it matters
Family or group plans can lead to better rates versus individual contracts.
Expert tip
Bundle policies for all travelers, as insurers often provide discounts for groups or families.
? Geographic coverage
Why it matters
Plans vary in rates depending on the level of global or regional protection required.
Expert tip
Restrict coverage to the African region rather than global plans to reduce your premium.
? Level of coverage
Why it matters
Medical costs in Burundi can escalate quickly if evacuation or hospitalization is needed.
Expert tip
Select a policy with the appropriate limit for medical and evacuation, avoiding extra high ceilings.
? Baggage protection
Why it matters
Baggage coverage adds cost but may be unnecessary for light or low-value travel.
Expert tip
Lower or exclude baggage coverage if you are not traveling with expensive items.
?️ Deductibles
Why it matters
High deductibles decrease your premium but increase your out-of-pocket expenses.
Expert tip
Opt for a higher deductible only if you are able to pay some costs up front in an emergency.
? Traveler’s age
Why it matters
Older travelers often face a price jump for coverage.
Expert tip
Check age-banded rates; Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62.
Key criteria for choosing travel insurance.

Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Burundi?

It is completely legitimate to wonder if your current insurance, such as credit card coverage or your health insurance, can protect you while traveling in Burundi. Unfortunately, these options are often limited or insufficient, especially for medical evacuation or emergencies. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.

Type of insuranceValid in Burundi?What it coversWhy Travel Insurance is better
Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid)No, neverNo overseas coverage, does not pay for care or evacuation abroadTravel insurance offers $100,000+ coverage for abroad hospital, urgent care, and evacuation
Private health insuranceYes, partlyLimited out-of-network claims (≤$10,000), no emergency evacuation, reimbursement neededTravel insurance covers direct payment, $100,000+ limits, and emergency evacuation support
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover)Yes, partlyAccidents/illness ≤$10,000, baggage delay, usually no evacuation or trip cancellationTravel insurance includes $100,000+ health, lost baggage, trip cancellation, and evacuation
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige)Yes, partlyEmergencies ≤$50,000, some trip and baggage coverage, strict limitationsTravel insurance provides up to $150,000+, evacuation, cancellation, and local medical support
Comparison of various insurance types and their coverage for travel in Burundi.
Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid)
Valid in Burundi?
No, never
What it covers
No overseas coverage, does not pay for care or evacuation abroad
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance offers $100,000+ coverage for abroad hospital, urgent care, and evacuation
Private health insurance
Valid in Burundi?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Limited out-of-network claims (≤$10,000), no emergency evacuation, reimbursement needed
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance covers direct payment, $100,000+ limits, and emergency evacuation support
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover)
Valid in Burundi?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Accidents/illness ≤$10,000, baggage delay, usually no evacuation or trip cancellation
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance includes $100,000+ health, lost baggage, trip cancellation, and evacuation
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige)
Valid in Burundi?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Emergencies ≤$50,000, some trip and baggage coverage, strict limitations
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance provides up to $150,000+, evacuation, cancellation, and local medical support
Comparison of various insurance types and their coverage for travel in Burundi.
icon

Example

After a motorcycle accident in Burundi, David's emergency surgery cost $4,500. His US health insurance denied the claim as "out-of-network," and his Visa Signature card's policy excluded medical costs from "high-risk activities." Facing the full bill, David had to find the funds himself, turning his trip into a financial crisis.

icon

Expert advice

Always review the terms, exclusions, and limits of your current insurance. Critical events, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death, are often excluded. Read your policy carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to Burundi?

Yes, US citizens need a visa to enter Burundi. You can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival at Bujumbura Airport for approximately $90, or apply in advance for a three-month visa at the Burundian Embassy in Washington, DC. Your passport must be valid for at least six months upon entry.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Burundi?

To purchase travel insurance for Burundi, start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Then check coverage and exclusions carefully, paying attention to medical evacuation and high-risk area restrictions specific to Burundi. Purchase your chosen policy online and receive your certificate by email.

What health precautions should I take before traveling to Burundi?

All travelers to Burundi must have a yellow fever vaccine and carry the WHO card. Additional recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccines. Prescription malaria prevention is advised due to high risk, and bottled water is strongly recommended.

Are medical facilities in Burundi reliable in case of an emergency?

Medical facilities in Burundi are far below US standards, with no adequate trauma or emergency care. In case of serious illness or injury, medical evacuation to a neighboring country or home is often necessary. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential.

What safety risks should travelers be aware of in Burundi?

Travelers should be prepared for political violence, crime, and occasional civil unrest. Certain provinces and areas of Bujumbura are especially risky. Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, consider traveling in groups, and register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for safety updates.

Do I need a visa to travel to Burundi?

Yes, US citizens need a visa to enter Burundi. You can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival at Bujumbura Airport for approximately $90, or apply in advance for a three-month visa at the Burundian Embassy in Washington, DC. Your passport must be valid for at least six months upon entry.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Burundi?

To purchase travel insurance for Burundi, start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Then check coverage and exclusions carefully, paying attention to medical evacuation and high-risk area restrictions specific to Burundi. Purchase your chosen policy online and receive your certificate by email.

What health precautions should I take before traveling to Burundi?

All travelers to Burundi must have a yellow fever vaccine and carry the WHO card. Additional recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccines. Prescription malaria prevention is advised due to high risk, and bottled water is strongly recommended.

Are medical facilities in Burundi reliable in case of an emergency?

Medical facilities in Burundi are far below US standards, with no adequate trauma or emergency care. In case of serious illness or injury, medical evacuation to a neighboring country or home is often necessary. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential.

What safety risks should travelers be aware of in Burundi?

Travelers should be prepared for political violence, crime, and occasional civil unrest. Certain provinces and areas of Bujumbura are especially risky. Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, consider traveling in groups, and register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for safety updates.

A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard
Insurance expert
HelloSafe
Co-founder of HelloSafe and an experienced entrepreneur in the insurance and personal finance sector, Antoine uses his experience and in-depth knowledge of the market to help Internet users make the right choices. With an MBA in economics, he is a committed expert whose mission is to make personal finance and insurance issues simple and understandable. With a rich career marked by the creation of innovative companies, Antoine's ambition has always been to bring transparency to complex issues and to give power back to consumers. With HelloSafe, he continues to translate this vision by providing accurate advice, impartial comparisons and detailed explanations of travel insurance. He has analysed hundreds of contracts to reveal the best options available on the market.

Ask a question, an expert will answer