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Gitega, the capital of Burundi
Flag of Burundi Capital of Burundi

Gitega

Gitega is the political capital of Burundi, located in the centre of the country on the Burundian central plateau. The city reclaimed its capital status in 2019 after serving as the former royal capital of the Kingdom of Burundi.

Photo: NIHEREWENIMANA Richard (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Quick facts

Population
155,005 (city)
Currency
Burundian franc (BIF)
Language
French, Kirundi
Timezone
CAT (UTC+2)
Local time now
23:19:37

Hotels in Gitega

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Airports in Gitega

Gitega is served by Aérodrome de Gitega, providing regional air access to the city. The nearby Aérodrome de Ruyigi also offers flight connectivity to the surrounding region. See all airports →

Aérodrome de Gitega
2.0 km from centre
Aérodrome de Ruyigi
34.4 km from centre

Car Hire in Gitega

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Things to Do in Gitega

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Restaurants in Gitega

Gitega offers a selection of dining establishments for visitors and locals alike. Venues like Pit Fit provide options for those seeking meals in the city. See all restaurants →

Pit Fit
1.4 km from centre

Swimming Pools in Gitega

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Spas in Gitega

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Nightlife in Gitega

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Bars in Gitega

Gitega offers a selection of local bars where visitors and residents can enjoy drinks and socialise. Establishments like Kungoma Bar and Ingoma Bar are among the venues available in the city. See all bars →

Kungoma Bar
64 m from centre
Ingoma Bar
69 m from centre

Cafes in Gitega

Gitega offers a selection of local cafes where visitors and residents can enjoy refreshments. Ku Kayaga is among the cafes available in the city, providing a place to relax and experience local hospitality. See all cafes →

Ku Kayaga
regional · 776 m from centre

Shopping in Gitega

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Nature & Wildlife in Gitega

Gitega offers visitors opportunities to experience the natural environment of Burundi's capital region. The city is surrounded by green spaces where visitors can explore the local flora and fauna of this Central African location. See all nature & wildlife →

Gr
7.5 km from centre
Gr
7.6 km from centre
Gr
7.6 km from centre
GR
7.9 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Gitega experiences a tropical highland climate typical of Burundi's central plateau region. The area enjoys relatively mild temperatures year-round due to its elevated altitude, with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Interesting Facts About Gitega — Weird & Wonderful

  • Gitega was formally reinstated as Burundi's political capital on 16 January 2019, ending Bujumbura's 50-year tenure as the political seat of government.
  • The city is located approximately 62 kilometres (39 miles) east of Bujumbura, Burundi's largest city and economic capital.
  • Gitega served as the royal capital of the Kingdom of Burundi until the kingdom's abolition in 1966.
  • The transition of government branches from Bujumbura to Gitega was expected to occur over three years following the 2019 parliamentary vote.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gitega

What currency is used in Gitega?

The Burundian franc is the official currency used in Gitega and throughout Burundi.

What language is spoken in Gitega?

Kirundi is the primary language spoken in Gitega, along with French, which is also widely used.

When did Gitega become the capital again?

Gitega was officially reinstated as Burundi's political capital on 16 January 2019, after a 50-year period when Bujumbura held that status.

How far is Gitega from Bujumbura?

Gitega is located approximately 62 kilometres (39 miles) east of Bujumbura, Burundi's largest city and current economic capital.

What is the historical significance of Gitega?

Gitega is the former royal capital of the Kingdom of Burundi, which was abolished in 1966, and is now the country's fourth largest city.

Map of Gitega

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