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OTB Mabayi Tea Factory

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

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The Mabayi Tea Factory is operated by the Office du Thé du Burundi (OTB) and is located in the Cibitoke Province in the northwest of the country. Burundi is internationally recognized for its high-quality highland tea, and the Mabayi facility plays a crucial role in processing harvests from the surrounding plantations. The region provides convenient conditions for tea cultivation, characterized by volcanic soils and a humid climate at altitudes exceeding 1,500 meters. Most of the tea produced here is exported via the Mombasa auctions in Kenya, contributing significantly to the nation's foreign exchange earnings. The factory serves as a vital employer in the region and supports thousands of smallholder farmers who supply raw tea leaves for processing. In recent years, investments have been made to modernize the machinery to increase efficiency and meet the strict quality standards required for the European market. Mabayi tea is distinguished by its strong aroma and bright liquor color. The factory also acts as a center for agricultural extension services, promoting sustainable farming practices within the local community.

Location: Burundi
Nearby: Rugombo (20 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	19	20	19	19	18	18	18	19	20	20	19	19
Rain mm	137	125	178	176	108	50	29	65	107	157	224	152

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The OTB Mabayi Tea Factory in mountainous northwestern Burundi processes high-quality tea from surrounding plantations. It is a key economic driver for the region, providing employment for many local families.

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Visiting

The tea factory is usually open to visitors, often offering guided tours of the production process. You can follow the process from leaf reception to packaging, but advance booking is required.

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Where to view it

An excellent viewpoint is the hill above the factory, from where the entire facility and surrounding tea plantations are visible. The road along the hill also has good views of the factory building and the green hills.

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Local products

The factory mainly produces black tea, grown in the region. Seasonally, special tea varieties like the first spring tea are offered, which is particularly aromatic.

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Active season

Tea harvesting occurs mainly in the wet months from November to April, when the factory runs at full capacity. In the dry season from May to October, production is reduced.

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Nearby

Combine the factory visit with a walk through the tea plantations or a trip to Lake Kiwira. The nearby village of Mabayi gives traditional crafts and local markets.