Things To Do
in Ouagadougou
Ouagadougou is the vibrant capital city of Burkina Faso, located in the heart of West Africa. It serves as the administrative, communications, and economic center of the country, bustling with markets, government offices, and cultural sites.
Known for its lively cultural scene, Ouagadougou hosts the biennial FESPACO film festival, the largest African film festival, attracting artists and filmmakers from across the continent.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Laongo Sculpture Complex, an inspiring open-air museum featuring striking stone sculptures. Enjoy a leisurely walk among the artworks while soaking up the serene atmosphere.
Head to the National Museum of Burkina Faso to learn about the country’s rich culture and history. Explore the diverse exhibits and enjoy a traditional lunch in a nearby restaurant afterward.
Dine at a local eatery, savoring authentic Burkinabé cuisine. Afterward, stroll through the lively streets to experience the local nightlife.
Visit the Ouagadougou Central Market to experience local life and shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs. The vibrant market atmosphere is perfect for an immersive cultural experience.
Explore the Institute of African Music, where you can appreciate traditional music and dance performances. Engage with local artists to learn about Burkina Faso's musical heritage.
Attend a live music performance at a popular venue in the city. Enjoy the lively ambiance and connect with fellow music lovers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse traditions and festivals.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other West African cities.
- Growing landscape for business and investment opportunities.
- Warm climate year-round with a mix of urban and rural settings.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities.
- Infrastructural challenges, including unreliable transportation.
- Vulnerability to climate change and frequent droughts.
- High levels of poverty and unemployment.
- Safety concerns due to political instability in the region.
Best Activities in Ouagadougou
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Some recommended outdoor activities in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso include visiting the National Park Bangr-Weogo, exploring the Naba Koom II's Mausoleum, and experiencing traditional music and dance at the Village Artisanal de Ouagadougou.
Places to Visit in Ouagadougou
Visit one of these nice places.
A unique outdoor art gallery with large-scale sculptures set amidst a stunning natural landscape, offering great photo opportunities.
An iconic traditional palace and historical site that provides a picturesque backdrop for photography.
A beautiful urban park with diverse vegetation, walking trails, and bird-watching opportunities, ideal for capturing nature shots.
A cultural institution showcasing traditional musical instruments and artifacts, providing interesting photographic subjects.
A symbol of Burkina Faso's independence, offering a significant and patriotic site for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Ouagadougou
Ouagadougou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish consisting of rice cooked in a tomato and onion sauce, often with meat or fish. Can be found at local eateries and markets like Rood Woko and Maquis Samandin.
Must-Try!
Translating to 'bicycle chicken,' this dish features free-range chicken slow-cooked in a rich, aromatic sauce. Look for it at roadside grills and traditional Burkinabe restaurants.
Skewers of marinated and grilled meat, such as beef, goat, or mutton, served with spicy peanut sauce. Best enjoyed at street food stalls and open-air markets like Night Market at Place du Cine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering vibrant displays of fresh produce, spices, and local ingredients. It also features numerous street food stalls serving grilled meats, fritters, and rice dishes.
A popular spot for sampling a variety of grilled meats, brochettes, and other local street foods in a lively, open-air setting surrounded by music and cultural performances.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ouagadougou, it is important to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time. It's also courteous to ask about the person's well-being and family before getting into any other conversation.
Respecting elders is a significant cultural norm in Ouagadougou. It's important to address them with proper titles and show deference in both verbal and non-verbal communication.
When visiting someone's home in Ouagadougou, it's respectful to bring a small gift such as fruit, nuts, or a token of appreciation. However, it's important to respectfully present the gift with both hands.
Safety
Tipping in Ouagadougou
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, tipping is not generally expected but may be appreciated for exceptional service at restaurants and in the hospitality industry.
Cash is the predominant form of payment in Ouagadougou, including the local currency, West African CFA franc. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in some businesses, particularly in larger establishments and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Ouagadougou is during the dry season when the weather is hot and dry, with clear skies and very little rainfall. This is the peak tourist season, offering excellent conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
During the rainy season, Ouagadougou experiences high humidity and heavy rainfall, which can make travel and outdoor activities challenging. However, the landscapes become lush and green, and there are cultural events and festivals to enjoy.
Ouagadougou at Night
Hiking in Ouagadougou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just outside Ouagadougou, Koglwéogo offers a network of trails through diverse ecosystems, where hikers can enjoy views of wildlife, including monkeys and various bird species.
This urban park features walking and hiking trails surrounded by greenery, making it a great place for a casual hike or nature walk within the city.
Located a short drive from Ouagadougou, Lake Tanghin features a scenic area for hiking along the shores and enjoying nature, with quiet spots for relaxation.
A bit further from the city, this national park provides hiking opportunities through natural landscapes, with chances to see native wildlife and stunning views.
This area features trail systems that are less crowded, providing a peaceful hiking environment with scenic views and opportunities to engage with the local flora and fauna.
Aiports
How to reach Ouagadougou by plane.
The main international airport serving Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Located in Lomé, Togo, approximately 1,000 km from Ouagadougou, this is a major international airport in the region.
Located in Banjul, Gambia, this airport is around 2,200 km from Ouagadougou and serves as an international gateway.
Located near Porto-Novo, Benin, this airport is approximately 1,500 km away and handles international flights.
Serving Niamey, the capital of Niger, this airport is about 900 km from Ouagadougou and is a key international hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Burkina Faso, comprising a significant percentage of the population in Ouagadougou. They are known for their rich cultural heritage and contributions to the country's history.
A prominent ethnic group in the region, they are primarily found in the eastern parts of Burkina Faso and have a growing presence in urban areas like Ouagadougou.
An ethnic group spread across West Africa, the Fula community in Ouagadougou is engaged in various professions, including trade and agriculture.
This group primarily resides in the southwestern part of Burkina Faso, with some members living in Ouagadougou, contributing to the city's diverse culture.
A smaller ethnic group predominantly located in the northern regions, with some representation in Ouagadougou. They have a vibrant culture and are known for their agricultural practices.
A lesser-known group, the Seno people can be found in small numbers within urban centers like Ouagadougou, often integrating with other communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ouagadougou and throughout Burkina Faso, with many local clubs and a passionate fan base.
Basketball has gained popularity, especially among the youth, with local leagues and schools promoting the sport.
Volleyball is popular in schools and communities, with both men's and women's teams competing in local tournaments.
Athletics, including running and field events, is practiced widely, with local competitions fostering talent.
Known locally as 'Lutte Traditionnelle,' this traditional sport is a significant cultural event, attracting many spectators.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ouagadougou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Burkinabe cuisine often includes meat, many restaurants and cafes in Ouagadougou offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, particularly those influenced by international flavors. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly, and some places may accommodate custom requests.
Gluten-free options may be limited in traditional Burkinabe cuisine, which commonly incorporates grains like millet and sorghum. However, international restaurants and upscale eateries often provide gluten-free alternatives. Communicating with the staff about dietary requirements is recommended.