Gishora is the most atmospheric place near Gitega to understand Burundi's royal drumming tradition. The sanctuary sits on a hill north of town, on the site of a former royal court, and keeps a collection of karyenda drums associated with the old monarchy.
Performances are powerful rather than decorative: drummers carry the heavy drums on their heads, set them down in formation, then build the rhythm with singing, jumps, and choreographed movement. Try to arrange a visit in advance through a local guide or the National Museum in Gitega, because the site is not run like a casual drop-in attraction.