How to Call Burundi
Complete guide to dialing Burundi (country code +257)
Making an international call can feel complicated, but learning how to call Burundi is simpler than you might think. Whether you're connecting with family, coordinating business matters, or reaching out to friends, calling Burundi successfully requires knowing the right dialing format and country code. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need for seamless international communication with Burundi. You'll discover step-by-step dialing instructions for calling from various countries, learn about common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting, and understand local phone etiquette to make great impressions. We've also included a helpful list of essential numbers you might need, from emergency services to customer support lines. By the end of this guide, you'll confidently place calls to Burundi without hesitation or confusion.
On This Page
Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
Dialing Burundi: Complete International Calling Guide
To successfully call Burundi (country code +257), you need to understand the international dialing format and how it varies depending on your location.
International Dialing Format Structure
The standard format for calling Burundi is:
Exit Code + 257 + Local Number (without leading zero)
Every country has an exit code (also called IDD) that you dial to make international calls. Burundi's country code is 257, and you must remove any leading zero from the local number.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (US/Canada exit code)
- Dial 257 (Burundi country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From the UK:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 257 (Burundi country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's specific code (commonly 00 for most European and Asian countries), then follow with 257 and the local number.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling a Bujumbura landline (22 XX XX XX):
- From USA: 011-257-22-XX-XX-XX
- From UK: 00-257-22-XX-XX-XX
- If the local number shows as 022 XX XX XX, drop the leading zero
Example 2 - Calling a Burundi mobile number (79 XX XX XX):
- From USA: 011-257-79-XX-XX-XX
- From UK: 00-257-79-XX-XX-XX
Example 3 - Calling another mobile number (68 XX XX XX):
- From USA: 011-257-68-XX-XX-XX
- From Australia: 0011-257-68-XX-XX-XX
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Burundi local numbers may display with a leading zero domestically (like 022 or 079), but you must drop this zero when dialing internationally. Only include the digits following the zero after entering the country code.
The Easy Way with ZippCall
Don't want to memorize exit codes, country codes, and dialing formats? With ZippCall, you don't have to.
Simply select "Burundi" from the country list, enter the local phone number exactly as you see it, and ZippCall automatically handles all the international dialing codes for you. No confusion, no mistakes—just easy calling.
Join 9,274 users who choose ZippCall for simple international calling.
Common Mistakes
When calling Burundi, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero: Burundian local numbers often start with 0, but you must remove it when dialing internationally. For example, if the local number is 072 123 456, dial +257 72 123 456, not +257 072 123 456.
Using the wrong exit code: Different countries have different exit codes (011 for the US/Canada, 00 for most European countries). Make sure you know your country's exit code, or simply use the + symbol which works universally on mobile phones.
Confusing the country code with area codes: +257 is Burundi's country code and applies to the entire nation. Don't add additional area codes, as Burundian numbers don't use them in the traditional sense.
Including incorrect spacing: While spaces don't affect connectivity, inconsistent formatting can lead to input errors. Follow the standard format: +257 XX XXX XXX for clarity.
Not verifying the number length: Burundian mobile numbers typically have 8 digits after the country code. If your number is shorter or longer, double-check it before dialing.
Cultural Etiquette
Phone Etiquette and Calling Customs in Burundi
When making phone calls in Burundi, understanding local customs helps build respectful relationships. Communication tends to be warm and relationship-focused rather than rushed.
Greetings are essential. Always begin calls with proper greetings, asking about the person's well-being and family before discussing your reason for calling. A simple "Amakuru?" (How are you?) in Kirundi shows respect, though French is also widely used in business contexts.
Formality matters in business. Use titles and surnames when calling business contacts or elders. "Monsieur" or "Madame" followed by the last name is appropriate until invited to use first names. Personal calls with friends can be more relaxed.
Timing is important. Avoid calling during lunch hours (12-2 PM) or late evenings after 8 PM unless urgent. Early mornings before 8 AM are also considered inappropriate for non-emergency calls.
Be patient with conversation pace. Burundians often take time with pleasantries, and rushing through calls can seem disrespectful. Building rapport is valued over efficiency.
Voice messages should be brief but polite. If leaving a message, clearly state your name, relationship to the person, and reason for calling. Request a callback rather than expecting immediate response.
Network issues require understanding. Be patient if calls drop or quality is poor, as infrastructure challenges are common. Simply redial without frustration, as this is accepted and understood by everyone.
Ready to call Burundi?
ZippCall lets you make cheap international calls to Burundi from any device. No contracts, no hidden fees—just simple pay-as-you-go rates.
Join 9,274 users making affordable international calls with ZippCall.
Emergency Numbers
In Burundi, emergency services can be reached through the following numbers:
Police: 117 or 112
Fire Department: 118
Ambulance: 119
Important Notes:
These emergency numbers are accessible from both landlines and mobile phones throughout Burundi. However, the emergency response infrastructure is limited, particularly outside the capital city of Bujumbura. Response times can be significantly delayed in rural areas.
French and Kirundi are the primary languages used by operators; English-speaking assistance may not be readily available. The services operate 24/7, though availability and reliability can vary. Calls to these numbers are free of charge.
For medical emergencies, consider contacting your embassy or a private medical facility directly, as they may provide faster assistance. It's advisable to have backup contact numbers for private ambulance services and hospitals, especially if you're traveling outside major urban areas.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance: Dial 12 for local directory inquiries and general information services within Burundi.
International Operator: Contact 10 for assistance with international calls, including operator-assisted connections and overseas inquiries.
Tourist Information: The Office National du Tourisme can be reached at +257 22 22 20 23 for travel assistance, attractions, and accommodation guidance.
U.S. Embassy Bujumbura: +257 22 20 74 00 for American citizen services and consular assistance.
French Embassy: +257 22 22 41 40 for French nationals and Francophone support.
Belgian Embassy: +257 22 22 35 53 serving Belgian citizens and providing European connections.
Air Traffic Information: Airport inquiries at +257 22 22 34 60 for flight schedules and general aviation questions.
Central Post Office: +257 22 22 27 60 for postal services and mail-related inquiries in Bujumbura.
Tips for Calling Burundi
When calling Burundi (UTC+2), timing is crucial for successful connections. The country doesn't observe daylight saving time, making schedule planning straightforward year-round.
Best calling times: Reach Burundi between 8 AM-5 PM local time on weekdays. For international callers, calculate accordingly—if you're in New York (UTC-5), call between 1 AM-10 AM EST.
Business considerations: Standard business hours run Monday-Friday, 8 AM-12 PM and 2 PM-5 PM. Always schedule important business calls in advance, as spontaneous connections may prove difficult. Email ahead to confirm availability and exchange contact details.
Peak vs off-peak: Mobile and landline networks experience congestion during lunch hours (12 PM-2 PM) and early evenings (5 PM-7 PM). Opt for mid-morning calls (9-11 AM) for clearest connections.
Days to avoid: Don't call on Sundays or public holidays, including Independence Day (July 1) and Christmas. Ramadan observance may affect business schedules.
Communication tips: Speak clearly and slightly slower than normal, as connections can be inconsistent. French and Kirundi are primary languages—confirm language preferences beforehand. Have backup contact methods ready, as dropped calls occasionally occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Burundi is +257. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Burundi from anywhere in the world.
To dial Burundi from your cell phone, start with + (or your country's exit code), then dial 257 (Burundi's country code), followed by the local phone number. For example: +257-XX-XXX-XXX.
Yes, if the local Burundi number starts with a zero, you should drop it when dialing internationally. After entering +257, dial the phone number without the leading zero.
The cheapest way to call Burundi is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Burundi.
In Burundi, the main emergency number is 112 for police assistance. For fire services, dial 118. These numbers can be dialed locally within Burundi in case of emergencies.
Yes! With ZippCall, you can easily call Burundi directly from your web browser. Simply visit ZippCall's website, add credit to your account, and start making calls without downloading any software or apps.
Start Calling Burundi Today
Now that you know how to dial, make cheap calls to Burundi with ZippCall's crystal-clear connections and unbeatable rates.
Join9,274users who have made13,827minutes of calls in the last 7 days.
View rates for calling Burundi