The 589-kilometer border between Burundi and Tanzania is a frontier largely defined by water, tracing a line through some of East Africa’s most significant natural landmarks. For much of its length, the border runs down the middle of the magnificent Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest freshwater lake, before following the course of the Malagarasi and Ruvubu rivers through remote wetlands and forests. This geography has shaped a relationship based on both connection and separation.
The main land crossing for you is at the Manyovu border post, located in the northeastern part of the border. This is the primary route for road traffic and trade, connecting the two countries via a road network that can be challenging, particularly on the Burundian side. The journey requires a well-equipped vehicle and careful planning, as services are sparse. The procedures at Manyovu are standard for a regional border post, but the remote setting means the pace is generally unhurried. For a truly unique experience, you can cross via the historic MV Liemba ferry on Lake Tanganyika. This century-old vessel, originally a German warship from World War I, connects ports in Tanzania and occasionally Burundi, offering a slow, scenic passage through a landscape rich in history.
This border region has been a place of refuge for decades, hosting large numbers of Burundian refugees in camps on the Tanzanian side. This long history of migration has created deep connections between the communities. Your journey here is a passage through a land of immense natural beauty, complex history, and logistical challenges.