Travelling to Burundi?

Get the best Burundian franc exchange rate online. 

Prepare for your trip to Burundi and order your Burundian francs at Manor FX today.

Benefit from our competitive exchange rates and get more Burundian francs for your money. 

You can opt for convenient home or office delivery of your Burundian franc banknotes or collect them from the Manor FX bureau near Heathrow. 

Manor FX guarantees rapid delivery and a straightforward online process to order your Burundian franc travel money.

Burundian travel money

Here are some useful insights about using cash and cards to make payments in Burundi.

What country uses the Burundian franc?

The Burundian franc is the official currency in Burundi. The Burundi currency symbol is FBu, and its currency code is BIF. 

What is the name of Burundi money?

The currency of Burundi is the Burundian franc (BIF).

Can you buy Burundian francs in the UK?

Yes, you can buy Burundian francs in the UK, but they’re harder to find as a minor currency.

Order your travel money through Manor FX, the best Burundi currency exchange platform, to avoid the hassle of visiting an exchange bureau. 

Benefit from our quick and safe delivery service and have your Burundian francs sent directly to your doorstep via Royal Mail Special Delivery.

Where can you get Burundian francs?

Buying Burundian francs (BIF) in the UK might be challenging.

Not all UK foreign exchange offices or banks offer this less common currency. 

If you want to buy Burundian francs, our online currency converter and bureau de change in Datchet offers excellent rates. 

Benefit from free home delivery if your order totals over £750 or pick up your Burundian francs in-store.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Burundi?

Yes! It’s wise to exchange Burundian francs before you travel to Burundi. 

Foreign currencies like USD or EUR may be difficult to exchange at fair rates upon arrival. 

Additionally, ATMs are limited, and credit cards are rarely accepted. 

Does Burundi accept US dollars?

Yes, US dollars are widely accepted in Burundi, especially in tourist areas and hotels and for larger transactions like safaris.

According to currency rankings, the Burundian franc (BIF) is not as widely traded as the US dollar, but it remains the key currency within Burundi. 

If you’re checking the BIF to USD rate, remember that USD rates fluctuate daily. 

What is the best currency to take to Burundi?

When travelling to Burundi, it’s advisable to carry local and international currencies. 

Burundian francs for daily expenses and US dollars or euros for activities such as tours. 

If you’re taking US dollars (USD), take new, undamaged notes from 2013 or later. 

Euros (EUR) are also accepted but less common. Exchange rates for USD are generally better, and many businesses prefer cash over cards.

Can I use my bank card in Burundi?

Bank cards are rarely accepted in Burundi. ATMs are limited and unreliable, and most businesses prefer cash. 

Do you need cash in Burundi?

While places in Burundi accept cards, cash payment is preferable in BIF or USD. 

Having Burundian francs on hand can be helpful when visiting smaller towns, local markets, or remote areas of the country.

Once you return from your travels, remember to convert your leftover US dollars and Burundian francs to GBP with us.

Is it better to use cash or a credit card in Burundi?

Cash is better in Burundi, as credit cards are rarely accepted, and ATMs are unreliable. 

Bring US dollars (new notes) for exchange and use Burundian francs (BIF) for daily transactions.

When you return, We’ll help you convert any leftover Burundian francs to pounds.  

How can I avoid ATM fees in Burundi?

To avoid ATM fees in Burundi, use local bank ATMs instead of international ones, as they may charge lower fees. 

Always notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid additional charges, and lastly, research your bank’s fees for international transactions to avoid surprises.

Is Burundi a cheap country to visit?

Yes, Burundi is generally a cheap country to visit, especially for food, transport, and local accommodations. However, imported goods, hotels catering to foreigners, and certain services can be expensive.

Is Burundi a rich country?

Burundi is one of the poorest countries in the world. Its low GDP and high poverty rates result from its heavy reliance on agriculture. 

How much money do you need per day in Burundi?

• Budget travellers: Approximately £15–£31 or 58,000–116,000 BIF daily.​
• Mid-range travellers: Approximately £39–£77 or 145,000–290,000 BIF daily.​
• Luxury travellers: Approximately £116+ or 435,000+ BIF per day.​

Note: Exchange rates fluctuate; checking the latest rates before your trip is advisable.

How does tipping work in Burundi?

Tipping is optional but appreciated in Burundi. Consider tipping 5-10% of the restaurant bill, but check for service charges first. For tour guides and drivers, $5 to $10 per person daily is typical, depending on service quality. 

A small tip, around $1 to $2, shows gratitude for hotel housekeeping or bellhops and taxi drivers or porters who assist with luggage.

Burundian currency

Banknotes in Burundi

The banknotes in Burundi are the 2015 series issued by the Bank of the Republic of Burundi. Older banknotes are no longer in circulation.

The Burundian franc banknotes in circulation are 500 francs, 1,000 francs, 2,000 francs, 5,000 francs, 10,000 francs, and 20,000 francs BIF.

The banknotes are thoughtfully designed, showcasing important national landmarks and the country’s rich fauna.

Coins in Burundi

Burundian coins range from 1 franc to 500 francs. The bi-metallic 500 franc coin is used alongside the 500 franc banknote.

Burundi’s currency import and export regulations

Travellers entering Burundi must follow currency regulations to protect their financial rights. 

While there are no strict limits on importing BIF or USD, amounts over $10,000 must be declared at customs. 

The territories of Burundi and surrounding regions have varying rules, so check with local authorities before carrying large amounts of cash.

Ordering Burundian francs online

Exchange your pounds for Burundian francs easily online and receive them swiftly and securely at your home or office using Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®. 

Alternatively, collect your currency from our travel money outlet near Heathrow. Click here to purchase Burundian francs online.

Selling back Burundian francs

If you need to convert Burundi currency to pounds, follow this link to convert Burundi francs to pounds, click on ‘sell currency’ and select ‘BIF Burundian franc.’ 

We’ll pay great rates for converting your Burundi currency to GBP. 

FAQs