Best Destinations to Travel to in Burkina Faso
Best Destinations to Travel to in Burkina Faso
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About Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso — the "Land of the Upright Men" — is a landlocked country in West Africa known for its diverse traditional cultures, vibrant music and film scenes, and unique landscapes. With a population of about 21.5 million, the country is home to the Mossi people (who make up roughly half the population) alongside many other ethnic groups. The nation has been shaped by a rich history of Mossi kingdoms, French colonial rule, and a series of political transformations since independence. Despite modern challenges, Burkina Faso offers travelers a deep look into West African cultural practices — from mask dances and mud mosques to storytelling traditions — and is considered one of the friendliest destinations on the continent.
As of the late 2010s, travel to Burkina Faso became unsafe due to political unrest and extremist activity. The country has experienced military coups and ongoing instability. Visitors are strongly advised to check current travel advisories and security conditions before planning a trip.
Burkina Faso's economy is heavily impacted by political instability, poor infrastructure, and challenging agricultural conditions, making it one of the world's poorest countries. However, the nation's cultural vitality remains a powerful draw for adventurous travelers who want to experience authentic West African life, music, dance, and art.
Content adapted from Burkina Faso on Wikivoyage contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0
Location
© OpenFreeMap © OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Destination Profile
Hot/tropical climate
Yes
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Things to Do
- Take a camel ride into the desert — Starting in Gorom Gorom, you can ride camels out into the Sahara-like landscape and even sleep on the sand. Bring warm clothes and good blankets for the cool desert nights.
- Hike to waterfalls near Banfora — A beautiful hike leads to waterfalls outside Banfora (admission around CFA1,000–2,000). Be cautious swimming in the water due to the risk of bilharzia (schistosomiasis).
- See hippos from a pirogue — Near Banfora, you can take a canoe trip on a lake to spot hippos (CFA2,000–3,000 per person). Keep a safe distance, as hippos are dangerous.
- Explore the Sindou Peaks — These unusual rock formations shaped by wind erosion, a couple of hours west of Banfora, are great for short hikes and picnics. A guide can share insights about Senoufo culture.
- Visit crocodile lakes — Outside Ouagadougou on the road to Bobo-Dioulasso, you can see crocodiles at one of the crocodile lakes.
- Learn West African drumming — Bobo-Dioulasso is an excellent place to learn traditional West African drumming.
- Buy fabric and have custom clothing made — In Ouagadougou, three "pagnes" of fabric cost around CFA3,750. A tailor can make outfits such as shirts, skirts, and wraps.
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Things to See
- Sindou Peaks — A narrow chain of soft rock eroded into needle-like formations near Banfora. Reminiscent of hoodoos, they are best appreciated on a short walk or picnic.
- Laongo Sculpture Park — Near Ouagadougou, scattered granite boulders have been transformed into sculptures by local and international artists.
- Mud mosques — Explore the historic mud mosque in Bobo-Dioulasso (requires removing shoes and modest dress). Other elaborately designed mud mosques can be found in Bani, near Dori.
- Waterfalls outside Banfora — A scenic hike leads to local waterfalls; enjoy the landscape but be cautious about swimming.
- Festivals — If your timing aligns, experience the country's rich culture through events like FESPACO (Panafrican Film Festival, odd-numbered years, Feb/Mar), FESTIMA (mask festival, even-numbered years, March), the Jazz Festival (April/May), and National Culture Week (March/April).
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Planning Tips
- Obtain a visa in advance — Most travelers need a visa. European Union citizens can get a visa on arrival at the airport (CFA10,000), but French citizens must get one in advance (€70). Non-EU visitors generally must obtain a visa beforehand (e.g., 3-month single entry for CFA28,300).
- Carry cash in CFA francs — Many transactions are cash-based. Bring small denominations for tips and purchases. Euros are easier to exchange than US dollars in some places.
- Pack for health precautions — Bring yellow fever vaccination proof (required for entry), malaria prophylaxis, a mosquito net, and a water filter for emergency use. Avoid swimming in freshwater lakes due to bilharzia risk.
- Respect local customs — Always greet people; avoid using your left hand for shaking hands or giving items. Dress modestly at religious sites. Be prepared for people to ask personal questions as a friendly gesture.
- Plan around quiet hours — Most businesses close from noon until around 15:00 for "repos" (rest). Don't expect to get much done during this time.
- Consider using buses between cities — Even wealthy locals often opt for buses rather than cars for major routes. The main roads between Ouagadougou and other cities are in good condition.
Content from Wikivoyage contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0