Burundi, a small and often overlooked country in East Africa, has a vibrant culture reflected in its local markets and crafts. If you’re looking for something unique to bring home, the art and culture here will not disappoint. Let me help guide you through the best items to buy and where to find them.
Wooden Carvings
One of the most popular souvenirs in Burundi is handmade wooden carvings. You’ll find animals like giraffes, elephants, and birds crafted with impressive detail. Many of these carvings are made from local hardwoods, ensuring they’re both durable and beautiful.
Local artisans often sell their wooden carvings at roadside stalls or in markets around major cities. Bujumbura, the country’s capital, is an excellent place to start your search. Stop by the city’s Central Market to explore aisles filled with woodwork, or for a more curated experience, check out the smaller Songa Art Gallery.
Where to Buy Wooden Carvings
- Central Market (Marché Central de Bujumbura) – A huge local market with various stalls selling carvings, amongst other goods.
- Songa Art Gallery – For higher-quality and unique pieces; prices here are generally higher, but the craftsmanship is top-notch.
- Kiriri Artisan Market – A smaller market that focuses more on handmade goods.
Batik and Handmade Textiles
Burundi has a rich tradition of textile making, with batik being one of the most distinctive styles. The patterns are hand-dyed using traditional methods, resulting in unique pieces of fabric for clothing, artwork, or household items. The vibrant colors and intricate designs make batik cloth perfect for home decor or as wearable art.
Look for handmade textiles at Bujumbura’s markets or in smaller towns like Gitega. You might also find artisans selling directly from their workshops, giving you an opportunity to see the batik-making process in action. Besides batik, you’ll also encounter traditional woven fabrics that often come in striking geometric or floral print patterns.
Where to Find Textiles
- Crafts Market of Bujumbura – Also known as the “Marché des Artisans,” this market is mainly focused on handmade crafts and textiles. It is less about produce and more about the local artistry.
- Gitega Craft Markets – A lovely stop if you’re traveling outside the capital. The pace here is slower, and the shopping more intimate.
Handwoven Baskets
Handwoven baskets are another great souvenir choice from Burundi. Both decorative and functional, these baskets use natural materials and traditional techniques handed down for generations. They come in many different shapes and sizes, making them useful whether you plan to use them for storage or simply as decoration.
The colors are usually earth tones, and the weaving patterns are varied. Some artisans create them from plant materials like sisal, raffia, or banana leaves, resulting in sturdy pieces. People typically use them to carry goods to the market or store items at home, but with their beauty, they make excellent centerpieces for a coffee table.
Best Markets for Handwoven Baskets
- Mutakura Market – Famous for its large collection of small-scale artists and handwoven goods.
- Kamenge Crafts Market – Located in the Kamenge district, this market is packed with handmade baskets and other artisanal crafts.
Burundian Drums
You can’t visit Burundi without hearing or seeing the world-famous Burundian drums, known as “Ingoma”. These drums are an integral part of the country’s cultural heritage, often associated with ceremonies, celebrations, and even the ancient monarchy. If you’re a music lover, taking home a small traditional drum might be one of the most memorable souvenirs you get from your trip.
Many local markets or craft stalls will carry small versions of these drums, perfect for taking on the plane. They are usually decorated with local symbols and intricate designs. If you want something more significant, you’ll also find larger pieces for sale, though shipping might be expensive.
Where to Find Drums
- Central Market of Bujumbura – You’ll find drums here, though the smaller shops nearby might offer better prices and quality.
- Gishora Drum Sanctuary – Gishora is about 7 miles from Gitega and is home to Burundi’s legendary drum-makers. Buying a drum here is a chance to support the local community and take home an authentic piece of Burundian history.
Jewelry and Beadwork
Another excellent souvenir option is local jewelry. Beads and metal crafting have a long history in Burundi. Artisans produce colorful beadwork bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, often incorporating designs that speak to local traditions. You’ll also find more elaborate pieces made with natural stones, brass, or recycled materials.
Whether you prefer simple beaded designs or more intricate metalwork, there is likely something for every type of jewelry lover. Be sure to haggle a bit—this is part of the market experience in Burundi.
Where to Buy Jewelry
- Crafts Market of Bujumbura (Marché des Artisans) – A go-to spot for a selection of handmade jewelry and beadwork from talented artisans.
- Kigobe Craft Village – This is a growing arts and crafts area with several workshops selling handmade jewelry. It’s located in the Kigobe neighborhood of Bujumbura.
Local Coffee
If you’re a coffee lover, you can’t leave Burundi without some locally sourced beans. Burundian coffee is known for its rich flavor and aroma. This landlocked country produces high-quality Arabica coffee beans, thanks to its high-altitude farms and fertile volcanic soil.
Visit a local cooperative or market to buy freshly roasted or even green beans, perfect for brewing at home. Some specialty coffee shops in Bujumbura also sell packaged coffee, often with direct benefits to small, local farmers.
Where to Buy Local Coffee
- Marché Central – Look for the stalls that specialize in beans and local produce.
- Jabe Café Shop – A boutique coffee shop that offers beans sourced from local farms.
- Burundi Coffee Company – Known for their commitment to producing and distributing fair-trade Burundian coffee.
Handmade Pottery
If you prefer something functional, handmade ceramics should be on your radar. Burundi has a rich tradition of pottery, especially amongst rural communities. Many of the items are both decorative and useful.
You’ll find vases, cooking pots, and jugs, often with earthy tones and traditional designs. These make excellent gifts or home decorations. The best part is that most of the pottery is made using centuries-old techniques, adding authenticity to each piece.
Where to Find Handmade Pottery
- Rugombo Pottery Market – Located in the northern part of Burundi, near the Congo border, this market specializes in pottery and ceramics.
- Gitega Craft Markets – Smaller vendors in Gitega sell handmade pottery alongside other local crafts.
Final Tips for Souvenir Shopping in Burundi
When shopping in local markets, don’t forget that bargaining is a common practice. However, keep in mind that many of the artisans here rely on their craft to make a living. Be respectful when negotiating prices, and consider the time and skill required to make these beautiful pieces.
If you’re not sure about where to go, ask locals for tips. Burundians are generally friendly and happy to point you toward the best markets and shops. Remember, buying local helps support the artisans and preserves Burundi’s cultural heritage. No matter what you buy, it’s not just a souvenir—it’s a piece of Burundian culture you’re bringing home with you.
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