Burkina Faso 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Heart of Burkina Faso

This itinerary focuses on cultural experiences and natural beauty, assuming you’re interested in seeing a variety of what Burkina Faso has to offer.

Day 1: Ouagadougou - The City & Its Markets

  • Morning: Explore Ouagadougou’s vibrant heart.

    • Visit the Grand Mosque of Ouagadougou, a stunning example of Sahel architecture, and marvel at its intricate designs.
    • Wander through the Ouagadougou Market, a bustling hub for traditional crafts, textiles, and local cuisine.

  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the culture of Burkina Faso.

    • Learn about the country’s history and art at the Musée de la Musique.

  • Things to know: Ouagadougou, the capital, is a good starting point for exploring the country. It offers a glimpse into modern life while still retaining its cultural charm. The Grand Marché (Grand Market) is a must-visit, known for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional goods.

  • Transportation:

    • Ouagadougou - Ouaga 2000 Market: You can easily reach the Ouaga 2000 market from your hotel by taxi or public transport. For local experiences, try taking a “taxi-brousse” (shared bush taxi) to see Burkina Faso’s vibrant markets.

  • Things to consider:

    • Ouagadougou Visa Requirements: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Burkina Faso. You can apply online or at the nearest embassy/consulate.

Day 2: Ouaga 2000 - Bobo-Dioulasso & the Sacred Mosque of Bobo-Dioulasso

  • Morning: Visit the Sacred Crocodile Pond in Bobo-Dioulasso, a fascinating cultural site where these revered reptiles are fed by locals.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant markets of Ouagadougou.
    • Ouagadougou is a good base for exploring other parts of the country, as it’s a central hub for transportation.

Day 3: National Museum of Burkina Faso - Ouagadougou

  • Morning: Visit the Musée National de la Musique, the National Museum in Burkina Faso and learn about the rich musical heritage of the region.

Things to know:

  • Transportation:
    • Local Transportation: Public transport in Ouagadougou is typically by “taxi-brousse” (shared taxis) or “taxi-moto” (motorcycle taxis). You can find them in designated areas and they are a great way to experience the local culture while getting around.

Important Notes for Tourists:

  • Visa: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Burkina Faso. Check the specific requirements for your nationality with the Burkinabe embassy or consulate in your country.
  • Currency: The CFA Franc (West African CFA franc) is the currency of Burkina Faso. It’s recommended to have some cash on hand, as ATMs can be unreliable and credit cards are rarely accepted.

Health & Safety:

  • Consult a travel medicine specialist about vaccinations and health precautions needed for visiting Burkina Faso. They will be able to provide you with personalized advice based on your travel itinerary.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution when traveling, especially in crowded areas. It’s always good practice to research the safety situation in Burkina Faso before planning your trip and follow any advisories from local authorities.

Other Considerations:

  • Learn a few basic French phrases: While many locals speak French, the official language of Burkina Faso, learning some essential phrases can make your trip more enjoyable and help you connect with people.

  • Respect local customs:

    • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
    • Ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their belongings.

  • Bargain for souvenirs: Haggling is common in Burkinabé markets. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price of goods.

  • Be mindful of the weather: Burkina Faso has a hot and dry climate, so it’s important to be prepared for the heat, especially if you are traveling during the dry season.

  • Cultural Experiences:

  • Ouagadougou Market: The largest market in the city is a great place to experience the local culture, with vendors selling everything from textiles and pottery to food and spices.

  • Festivals: Burkina Faso has many vibrant festivals throughout the year, including the Festival du Cinéma Africain de Ouagadougou (FESPACO), a renowned celebration of African cinema held in the capital.

  • Music & Culture: Burkina Faso’s music and dance scene are incredibly rich and diverse, with traditional genres like “djoula” (drumming and singing) being popular.

  • Transportation:

    • Explore the “taxi-brousse” system: It’s a unique experience to travel through, allowing you to interact with local people and experience their daily life.

  • Health:

    • Check for recommended vaccinations before your trip. Malaria is prevalent in Burkina Faso, so prophylactic medication may be necessary.

  • Safety:

    • Be aware of the political climate in the country and check travel advisories.
    • Take precautions against theft, especially in crowded markets.

  • Culture & Safety:

  • Choose safe transportation: When traveling in Ouagadougou, opt for taxi-brousse with a trusted driver or a reputable taxi company.

  • Travel with a group: This is a good way to deter unwanted attention and ensure your safety.

  • Respect local laws and customs: Familiarize yourself with the local laws of Burkina Faso before traveling there.

  • Be aware of potential scams: Tourists should be wary of common scams in markets, such as inflated prices or counterfeit goods.

Currency:

  • Learn about the CFA Franc: Knowing the exchange rate and being aware of safe ways to exchange currency will be helpful.

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can easily customize it based on your interests. For example, you could spend more time in Ouagadougou, exploring the city’s nightlife and cultural attractions. Or, you could travel outside the city to see other parts of Burkina Faso.

  • Transportation:
  • Travel with a guide: Consider hiring a local guide who can help you navigate the city safely and provide insights into the culture and history.

Remember to be respectful of local customs and traditions while enjoying your trip!