Things To Do
in Nouna
Nouna is a small, friendly town in western Burkina Faso that serves as a practical gateway to the surrounding savanna landscapes. It sits near the Mouhoun region’s traditional markets, where dairy, grains, and peanuts dominate daily life. The town pulsates with markets, friendly greetings, and a pace that invites exploration on foot or by short taxi rides.
Visitors should expect warm hospitality, vibrant street life, and nature-bound day trips within reach of town limits.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in Nouna by visiting the vibrant local market. Here, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of daily Burkinabé life as vendors sell fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional textiles. Don't forget to sample some local delicacies for breakfast.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, embark on a guided tour of the traditional houses and learn about the history of the Nouna region. Take the opportunity to meet local artisans and understand their craft, whether it be pottery, weaving, or woodwork. This experience provides a deeper connection to the culture and the people.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant while listening to the sounds of music and laughter around you. This is a perfect time to reflect on the day's discoveries and perhaps engage in conversations with locals about their customs and traditions. Gather around a bonfire to enjoy stories and folklore shared by the elders of the community.
Set out early to explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Nouna. Hike through the nearby hills to witness breathtaking views, and discover unique flora and fauna native to the region. Bring a guide to help spot wildlife and learn about the local ecosystem.
After a hearty lunch, visit the nearby rivers and engage in activities like fishing or bird watching. You might come across local fishermen practicing their trade, providing an authentic glimpse into daily life. Enjoy the serenity of nature and take some time to relax by the water.
Return to Nouna for a relaxing evening under the stars. Enjoy a simple dinner and share experiences with fellow travelers, discussing the beauty of the day’s adventures. It’s a wonderful occasion to bond over shared passions and stories from different parts of the world.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍢Local street snack | $0.5-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
| 🧊Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.3-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Genuine market-town experience with welcoming locals
- Affordability and proximity to nature for day trips
- Limited infrastructure for extensive services within town
- Healthcare and some services require travel to larger cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est le marché ?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Nouna
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden early light over stalls, color-rich produce, and sellers starting their day—great for candid portraits and street textures.
Calm water and silhouettes of trees and fishermen; ideal for tranquil landscape shots and reflections.
Open grasslands with sparse trees—expansive skies and dramatic light for wide-angle landscape photography.
Thatched roofs and earthen walls offer authentic architectural textures and cultural portraits with proper consent.
Food in Nouna
Nouna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Millet or sorghum dough served with a tomato-peanut or vegetable sauce; a staple meal that pairs well with grilled meat or fish.
Must-Try!
Slow-grilled or fried chicken often enjoyed with rice or tô and a side of sauce.
Okra-based sauce, usually cooked with meat or fish and served over tô or rice.
A flavorful rice dish cooked with vegetables, spices, and sometimes meat; a common choice at local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering fresh produce, grains, peanuts, dairy, and ready-to-eat street foods like fried plantains and roasted nuts.
Small, informal stalls offering grilled meats, maize snacks, and refreshing beverages; excellent for trying local flavors with guidance from locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm hello or handshake; use polite titles when addressing elders. Acknowledge people you meet on the street with a nod or handshake.
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially in markets and religious sites. Lightweight, breathable clothing is practical in heat.
Ask for permission before photographing people, particularly in private homes or intimate settings; accept refusal gracefully.
Safety
Tipping in Nouna
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service but not obligatory. Small gestures (roughly $1–$3) for standout help at markets, eateries, or guides are common.
Cash (local currency and sometimes USD) is widely used in markets and informal eateries. Mobile money and card facilities are less common in town; plan for cash payments and carry small notes/coins.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days with abundant sunshine; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated. Seek shade and wear lightweight, breathable clothing.
Lush landscapes and frequent afternoon downpours; roads can become muddy and travel times may lengthen. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Cooler mornings and warm afternoons; dust can be persistent, so consider a scarf or mask for extended outdoor exposure. Ideal for photography with clear skies and dramatic light.
Nouna at Night
Hiking in Nouna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Remarkable sandstone formations with scenic trails and viewpoints; a popular day trip for those seeking dramatic landscapes.
Waterfall area near Banfora with short hikes and opportunities for swimming in safe areas; lush surroundings especially in the rainy season.
Gentle day hikes through open grasslands and river edges offering wildlife viewing and village scenery.
Airports
How to reach Nouna by plane.
Main international gateway to Burkina Faso; serves as the primary entry point for most long-distance travelers, with connections to many African and European cities.
Regional airport serving western Burkina Faso; convenient for domestic connections to the region and a common approach from neighboring countries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of Burkina Faso’s largest ethnic groups; prevalent in western regions and central areas.
Widely present as traders and workers across western Burkina Faso; often bilingual with French.
Includes Fulani (Fula), Bobo, and smaller communities contributing to the region’s diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Burkina Faso, enjoyed casually in neighborhoods and organized on local teams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nouna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Traditional dishes often center on grains and vegetables; ask for tô with tomato-pepper sauce or peanut sauce without meat. Request no fish or meat and verify ingredients to avoid hidden animal products in broths.