5-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Burkina Faso

Day 1: Exploring Ouagadougou

Place to Go: Start your journey in the capital city, Ouagadougou. Visit the Institut Francais, a cultural center showcasing traditional art and contemporary exhibitions. Don’t miss the Zongo-Wangin, a vibrant district known for its lively market and street food.

Activities: Explore the city’s bustling markets, try local dishes like tuo zaafi (corn dough balls) and grilled meats. In the evening, enjoy live music at Café de la Gare or Le Balai Citoyen.

Things to Know: Ouagadougou can be quite hot, so remember to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. French is widely spoken, but many locals also speak Moore and Dioula.

Visa Requirements: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Burkina Faso. You can apply for a tourist visa at the Burkina Faso embassy in your home country or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport.

Transportation: Taxis are readily available and affordable in Ouagadougou.

Day 2: Wander through Bobo-Dioulasso

Place to Go: Travel to the second largest city, Bobo-Dioulasso. Visit the Museum of African Art and Culture, and the beautiful Grand Mosque.

Activities: Take a stroll along the lively Boulevard du 1er-Novembre and enjoy local street food at Place de la Fontaine. In the evening, catch a performance by Les Ballets Africains, Burkina Faso’s national dance troupe.

Things to Know: Bobo-Dioulasso is home to the Dioula people, and their cultural influence is evident everywhere.

Day 3: Discover the Land of the Tiebati

Place to Go: Head to the small town of Banfora, located in the Land of the Tiebati. Visit the Karfiguéla Waterfalls and relax at the nearby Lake Tengrela.

Activities: Take a boat tour on the lake, swim beneath the waterfalls, or explore local artisan shops selling traditional crafts like batik fabric and wood carvings.

Things to Know: The town is named after the Tiebati people, who are known for their hospitality and vibrant culture.

Day 4: Explore the Silver Mines of Sindou

Place to Go: Travel to the Sindou Peaks, a series of sandstone formations with underground silver mines.

Activities: Hike through the peaks, explore the abandoned silver mines, and enjoy stunning views of the landscape.

Things to Know: The area is best explored with a local guide for safety reasons. Remember to bring water and sun protection.

Day 5: Wildlife Spotting at W National Park

Place to Go: End your journey in W National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos.

Activities: Take a safari tour, go birdwatching, or take a boat trip on the park’s lakes.

Things to Know: The park is best explored with a guide due to potential dangers from wildlife. Always respect the local rules and regulations.

Transportation: Travel between cities can be done by bus or shared taxis. For more remote destinations, it’s best to organize a guided tour with a local operator.