Travel landscape in Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso flagRoutaya · Country guide

Travel guide to Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso, located in West Africa, is a country rich in culture, history, and diverse landscapes. Known for its vibrant markets, traditional festivals, and unique music, this destination offers an authentic experience for travelers seeking adventure and discovery.

Photo by Ousmane GUINDO · Pexels

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Altitude 580 m

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Information is provided as a travel-planning aid. Confirm entry, health and safety requirements with official authorities before departure.

Quick facts

Official languages
French
Time zones
UTC+0
Electrical outlets
220 V, 50 Hz. Mainly type C and E plugs.
Climate
Tropical climate with dry season from November to May and rainy season from June to October.

Health

Consult a travel clinic or healthcare professional before departure. Bring a first aid kit and have travel insurance.

Travel health advice

  • Drink only sealed bottled water.
  • Avoid street food unless hygienically prepared.
  • Protect against mosquitoes especially during rainy season.

Recommended vaccines: Yellow fever (mandatory on arrival).; Hepatitis A.; Typhoid.; Meningitis.; Rabies (depending on length of stay).

Required vaccines: Yellow fever vaccination.

Money

Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)

Local currency is the CFA franc. Euros and US dollars can be exchanged at banks and exchange offices in Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso.

Credit cards are accepted in major cities, but cash is advised as ATMs are limited.

Safety

Security situation may vary. Check with official sources before your trip.

  • Avoid traveling at night.
  • Do not display valuables.
  • Use official taxis.
  • Research areas to avoid.

Areas to check before travel: North-East; Sahel; East

Regions

Centre — travel guide
Region

Centre

Region housing the capital Ouagadougou, the economic and cultural heart of the country.

Hauts-Bassins — travel guide
Region

Hauts-Bassins

Known for its main city Bobo-Dioulasso, a major cultural and artistic center.

South-West — travel guide
Region

South-West

Region with lush landscapes and strong ethnic and cultural diversity.

East — travel guide
Region

East

Fertile area with important national parks and nature reserves.

North — travel guide
Region

North

Desertic region near the Sahel, with nomadic traditions.

Central Plateau — travel guide
Region

Central Plateau

Area between Ouagadougou and southern territories, mixing agriculture and artisanal activities.

Cities

Ouagadougou — city guide
City guide

Ouagadougou

Dynamic capital, administrative and cultural center with lively markets.

  • National Museum
  • Grand Market
  • FESPACO Festival
  • Central Mosque
  • Basilica of Our Lady of Yagma
Bobo-Dioulasso — city guide
City guide

Bobo-Dioulasso

Second-largest city, noted for colonial architecture and cultural richness.

  • Great Mosque of Bobo
  • Place du 4 Août
  • Central Market
  • Provincial Museum of Houet
  • Music Festivals
Koudougou — city guide
City guide

Koudougou

Important university town, known for crafts and traditional markets.

  • Nazi Boni University
  • Central Mosque
  • Artisan Market
Banfora — city guide
City guide

Banfora

Gateway to Karfiguéla waterfalls, offering a relaxed, natural atmosphere.

  • Karfiguéla Waterfalls
  • Sindou Peaks
  • Tengrela Lake
Ouahigouya — city guide
City guide

Ouahigouya

Historic northern town, center for animist and Muslim traditions.

  • Ouahigouya Mosque
  • Traditional Market
Fada N’Gourma — city guide
City guide

Fada N’Gourma

Capital of the East, known for colorful markets and unique crafts.

  • Mosque
  • Central Market
  • Regional Museum of Gourmanché Culture
Tenkodogo — city guide
City guide

Tenkodogo

Transition town towards center-south, cultural gateway with an active market.

  • Local Market
  • Historical Monuments

Highlights

Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO) — travel guide
Must-see

Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO)

The largest African film festival, held biennially in Ouagadougou.

International Festival of Masks and Arts (FESTIMA) — travel guide
Must-see

International Festival of Masks and Arts (FESTIMA)

Cultural celebration of traditional Burkinabe masks.

Great Mosque of Bobo-Dioulasso — travel guide
Must-see

Great Mosque of Bobo-Dioulasso

Architectural masterpiece made of mud bricks.

Karfiguéla Waterfalls — travel guide
Must-see

Karfiguéla Waterfalls

Picturesque waterfalls near Banfora, ideal for swimming and relaxation.

Arly National Park — travel guide
Must-see

Arly National Park

Protected area with diverse wildlife, ranging from savanna to forest.

Tengrela Lake — travel guide
Must-see

Tengrela Lake

Peaceful lake where hippopotamuses can be observed.

Sindou Peaks World Heritage Site — travel guide
Must-see

Sindou Peaks World Heritage Site

Unique rock formations offering spectacular views.

Nature & other places

Arly National Park — travel guide
National Park

Arly National Park

Reserve hosting elephants, lions, buffalos, and varied vegetation.

Nazinga Reserve — travel guide
Nature Reserve

Nazinga Reserve

Protected area known for safaris and rich animal biodiversity.

Karfiguéla Waterfalls — travel guide
Natural Site

Karfiguéla Waterfalls

Cluster of waterfalls in an impressive natural setting.

Sindou Peaks — travel guide
Natural Site

Sindou Peaks

Spectacular rock formations in the southwest.

Tengrela Lake — travel guide
Lake

Tengrela Lake

Lake famous for the presence of hippopotamuses.

Comoé-Léraba Forest — travel guide
Forest Reserve

Comoé-Léraba Forest

Important forested area bordering Ivory Coast.

Travel conditions can change. Always consult official government travel advice and health authorities shortly before your trip.

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