Ruins of Loropéni
Region: Southwestern Loropéni
Cultural Heritage
Stone wall ruins of a golden trade city flourishing from 11th to 16th centuries, first World Heritage site.
Tourism in Burkina
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
W-Arly-Pendjari Complex
Region: Southeast to Benin border
Nature
Savanna reserve known for elephant corridor; birdwatching sanctuary.
Naziensa Cathedral
Region: Ouagadougou
Religious Architecture
West Africa's largest red brick Catholic church.
Bobo-Dioulasso Old Town
Region: Bobo-Dioulasso
Historic District
City of music with Sudanese-style Grand Mosque and mud-built alleys.
Tiébélé Kassena Wall Painting Houses
Region: Southern Poni Province
Culture
Photogenic geometric pattern wall paintings by women.
Banfora Waterfall (Karfiguela)
Region: Cascade region
Nature
Tiered waterfall creating spectacular mist in rainy season; nearby sugarcane train observable.
Lake Bam
Region: Central west
Nature
Artificial lake popular for stargazing and boat safaris.
Sukarabla Mud Wall House Complex
Region: Nahouri Province
Culture
Traditional settlement listed on UNESCO tentative list.
Ouagadougou Craft Village
Region: Ouagadougou suburbs
Market
Artisan ateliers for bronze casting and leatherwork.
Zabré Shea Butter Cooperative Visit
Region: Central south
Experiential
Eco-tour to experience shea butter extraction from nuts.
Suggested itineraries
Cultural Capital Ouagadougou and Savanna Experience 4 Days
Duration (days): 4
Highlights: Cathedral and palace ruins, Craft village shopping, Film museum, Night drum performance
Short plan centered on capital stay, enjoying history, film, music, and folk arts.
Southwestern Nature Park and Waterfall Tour 7 Days
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Arly National Park safari, Banfora Waterfall, Loropéni Ruins, Sugarcane train
Intermediate route refreshing with wildlife, World Heritage, and cool waterfalls.
Crafts and Music Circuit 5 Days
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Bobo-Dioulasso Old Town, Tiébélé mud paintings, Faso Dan Fani weaving workshops
Connecting western art city and traditional villages, enjoying concerts and workshops.
Travel tips
- Dry season (November to February) mornings and evenings cool; light long sleeves essential.
- Sahel zone has strong sun and dust; prepare sunglasses and scarf.
- Long-distance travel safer with air-conditioned buses or 4WD charter.
- Rural areas do not accept credit cards, so carry sufficient CFA Franc cash.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for presentation.
- Moderating eating and drinking in public during Ramadan creates good impressions.
- Prepare mosquito repellent and mosquito-treated bedding for vector-borne diseases.
- Tap water not potable; purchase bottled water.
- Avoid nighttime outings for security; arrange trusted drivers for transportation.
- Confirm "Je peux prendre une photo?" before photography to avoid trouble.
- Market price negotiation starts at about half with a smile.
- SIM cards easily purchased with passport.
- Northern and eastern extremist activity areas require constant check of government travel advisories.
- Frequent power outages make mobile batteries valuable.
- Major hotels have English speakers, but learning French greetings appreciated.