Gishora drum sanctuary, the face of Burundi attraction. If you really want to enjoy an authentic African cultural experience, there is none compared to a visit to Gishora drum sanctuary
Located along the top of the hill at 7km from the urban center of Gitega, at 200m along Gitega-Ngozi route. You can watch a drum show almost everywhere in Burundi, but Gishora makes a difference, and for a good reason due to its history.
The Gishora drum sanctuary is among the most prominent drum sites in Burundi founded in 1903 by King Mwezi Gisabo after attaining victory over his rebellious opponent Chief Ntibirangwa. Today, the site is managed by a local community with descendants of the ancient lineage of ‘Abanyigisaka’ who were ritualists that had privileges from the royal court. Before, the drums in Burundi were a sign of political power of the monarchy and were made to be beaten on special ceremonies carried out by the families of the ‘Abatimbo’ and some of these included royal enthronement, the sowing festival, funerals of kings etc.
The site also has two ritual drums that were never beaten and these include; the Ruciteme (the one for whom we clear the forest) and Murimirwa (the one for whom we cultivate). These were named to mean the farming vacation as well as the fertility and characteristics of the King. There are also normal drums and these include the ‘Ingendanyi’ (retinue) which the Batimbo used to beat on special occasions of the country.
The Gishora drumming show can be performed at any time, however an advance booking makes it worth it, so as you do not have to wait for the arrangements. The show itself is about 40 minutes fast paced and beautiful. About 30 folk in the troupe including a few young kids. Gishora Drum Sanctuary has been an important site where young boys and men of all ages practice, rehearse, and teach specific drumming techniques to the young generation.
Absolutely fantastic rhythmic drumming and dancing all dressed in traditional gear. There is also a small open air museum and a ceremonial drum that is never beaten
Worth the whole trip to Burundi to see this performance. These people are true professionals and have great talent. It was the best thing in Burundi. The whole village shows up to watch and the drummers seem to really enjoy what they do, as they put a lot of energy and passion in their dance. You will be blown away with the beautiful dance and drumming.
As the saying goes “If you go to Burundi and don’t see the drummers – you have not seen Burundi.” This was the highlight of the trip in Burundi.
Book your Gishora drum sanctuary tour, with One More Adventure Safaris, and have everything put together for you.
You can combine your tour with a visit to Rusizi National Park and Bujumbura city tour.
If you’re a fan of sun and sand, an added stay at Rumonge beach, is worth the entire Burundi tour.
Once you start a trip planned by One More Adventure Safaris, you fall into the One More Adventure rhythm. No request is too small, neither complicated, we curate the entire trip with you, from start until when you meet your interest and budget at hand. Our rapport with the local guides and continuous assessment of your interests and needs demonstrated the diamond standard of all safari specialists. We are also available outside working hours when a couple of things needs to get done.