Things To Do
in Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in West Africa, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. It boasts a diverse population with over 60 different ethnic groups, each contributing to the nation's unique tapestry. The country's geography features savannahs, plateaus, and several national parks that are home to diverse wildlife.
Despite facing challenges, Burkina Faso is celebrated for its warm hospitality and resilient spirit.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ouagadougou Central Market, where you can experience local life and shop for handicrafts.
Explore the National Museum of Burkina Faso to learn about the country's history and culture through its extensive exhibits.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the city.
Head to the nearby Nazinga Game Ranch for a morning safari, where you can see elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Visit the village of Tiebele to admire the unique architecture of the Kassena people, featuring beautifully painted homes.
Return to Ouagadougou and enjoy a cultural performance, featuring traditional music and dance, while tasting local street food.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget accommodation per night | $15 |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $0.50 |
| 🛍️Souvenir from local market | $5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and diverse ethnic groups.
- Affordable travel costs compared to many other destinations.
- Warm hospitality from the local population.
- Limited infrastructure and transportation options.
- Potential security concerns in certain regions.
- Language barriers, as French is the official language.
- "Na ga" - Hello
- "I ni ce" - How are you?
- "M biiga" - Thank you
- "Ayi ni" - Please
- "N kôb na" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Burkina Faso
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its unique architecture and colorful murals, providing a stunning backdrop for photographs.
A great spot for wildlife photography, where you can capture elephants and other animals in their natural habitat.
Vibrant and bustling, this market is perfect for capturing the essence of local life and culture.
Food in Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple made from millet or sorghum flour, often served with a variety of sauces.
Must-Try!
A rice dish cooked with vegetables and meat, richly flavored with spices.
A local fish dish, often grilled or fried and served with spicy sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food vendors.
Commonly found in cities, offering a variety of dishes like kebabs, fried plantains, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings are very important; it ’s polite to ask about someone's health and family before starting a conversation.
Modest dress is recommended, especially in rural areas, to show respect for local customs.
Elders are highly respected in Burkinabe culture, and it is customary to greet them first in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Burkina Faso
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip service workers around 10% for good service in restaurants.
Cash is the most common payment method, and it's advisable to carry local currency (CFA Franc) for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and travel.
Hot and humid weather with frequent rains, leading to lush landscapes but potential travel disruptions.
A dry and dusty wind from the Sahara, causing cooler temperatures but can reduce visibility.
Various cultural festivals occur throughout the year, showcasing the rich traditions of the country.
Burkina Faso at Night
Hiking in Burkina Faso
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers a chance to see diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Explore less-trodden paths that lead to breathtaking views of the surrounding nature and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Burkina Faso by plane.
The main international airport serving Burkina Faso, offering connections to several African and European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Burkina Faso, known for their rich cultural heritage and agricultural practices.
An ethnic group primarily found in the eastern region, noted for their unique traditional music and dance.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Burkina Faso, with a passionate fanbase and local leagues.
Traditional wrestling is a significant cultural sport, often featuring in local festivals and events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be prepared vegetarian, but it's best to ask for specific options.
Most meat dishes are prepared according to halal standards, but it's advisable to confirm with the vendor.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burkina Faso.