Burundi’s second largest city resumed the role of political capitol in 2019. Bujumbura remains the economical capitol. Gitega is a smaller and much more pleasant city with asphalted tree lined roads and less scruffy buildings.
Our first morning has us in a private guided tour with th curator. While small and basic the guide brings it and the history of Burundi to life.
Our main reason for coming here is to see the Gishora dancers. Situated on the site where kings of Burundi reigned they have preserved the original royal dwelling which are thatched roof huts.
This has been a designated world heritage site since 2014. In my travels I have seen many “cultural shows” and generally I am not a fan. Typically they are lame and contrived. They appeal to the western tourist who feels warm and fuzzy about ticking the ‘’cultural sensitivity” box but in this case boy was I wrong! African drums beating persistently and menacingly, these guys delivered a high energy, spine tingling performance as my photos attest.
Finally a drive out to the impressive Karere Falls completes a long but highly satisfying day.
