Burundi is a small country in East Africa, bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. Cankuzo is the second-largest province in Burundi, and it is home to some of the most breathtaking places in the country. From national parks to ancient ruins, here are the top 20 places to see in Cankuzo, Burundi.
1. Gishora Drum Sanctuary: Located in the commune of Gishora, the Gishora Drum Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to a collection of ancient drums that are said to have been used by kings and chiefs of the Kingdom of Burundi. The drums are believed to have been used to communicate with the gods and to call the people of the kingdom together.
2. Kibira National Park: This national park is located in the north of Cankuzo province and is the largest protected area in Burundi. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. It is also a great place to spot birds, with over 300 species recorded in the park.
3. Lake Rwihinda: This stunning lake is located in the commune of Buyengero and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It is also a great place to relax and take in the views of the surrounding hills.
4. Kagera Falls: Located in the commune of Buyengero, Kagera Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. Its powerful cascades plunge over a cliff into a deep ravine below.
5. Musumba Rock Paintings: These ancient rock paintings are located in the commune of Buyengero and are believed to be over 2000 years old. They depict scenes of hunting and gathering, as well as scenes from everyday life.
6. Nkoma Cave: This cave is located in the commune of Buyengero and is home to an impressive collection of stalactites and stalagmites. It is also a great place for bird watching, with several species of birds living in the area.
7. Gihanga Hot Springs: These hot springs are located in the commune of Gihanga and are a great place to relax and unwind. The hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties and are a popular spot for locals.
8. Gitega National Museum: This museum is located in the commune of Gitega and is home to a collection of artifacts from Burundi's past. It also houses a library and a research center.
9. Kigwena Natural Reserve: This reserve is located in the commune of Kigwena and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, and antelopes. It is also a great place to spot birds, with over 300 species recorded in the park.
10. Ruzizi National Park: This national park is located in the commune of Ruzizi and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. It is also a great place to spot birds, with over 300 species recorded in the park.
11. Muramvya Lake: This lake is located in the commune of Muramvya and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It is also a great place to relax and take in the views of the surrounding hills.
12. Kibira Forest: This forest is located in the commune of Muramvya and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. It is also a great place to spot birds, with over 300 species recorded in the park.
13. Gisagara Waterfalls: These stunning waterfalls are located in the commune of Gisagara and are a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. The falls plunge over a cliff into a deep ravine below.
14. Nyanza Lac: This lake is located in the commune of Nyanza Lac and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It is also a great place to relax and take in the views of the surrounding hills.
15. Gitega Hot Springs: These hot springs are located in the commune of Gitega and are a great place to relax and unwind. The hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties and are a popular spot for locals.
16. Butare Ruins: These ruins are located in the commune of Butare and are believed to date back to the 16th century. The ruins are a great place to explore and learn about Burundi's history.
17. Kirundo Lake: This lake is located in the commune of Kirundo and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It is also a great place to relax and take in the views of the surrounding hills.
18. Muramvya Caves: These caves are located in the commune of Muramvya and are home to an impressive collection of stalactites and stalagmites. It is also a great place for bird watching, with several species of birds living in the area.
19. Kibira National Park: This national park is located in the north of Cankuzo province and is the largest protected area in Burundi. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. It is also a great place to spot birds, with over 300 species recorded in the park.
20. Gitega National Museum: This museum is located in the commune of Gitega and is home to a collection of artifacts from Burundi's past. It also houses a library and a research center.
Cankuzo province is home to some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Burundi. From ancient ruins to stunning national parks, there is something for everyone in this part of the country. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an educational experience, Cankuzo has something to offer.