Burkina Faso

Welcome to Burkina Faso

Burkina should be on everyone's travel list, but sadly the current security situation means the unforgettable journey here will have to wait. The country may not have many big-ticket attractions, but the warmth of its welcome and the friendliness of the Burkinabé people is unique. When it's again safe to travel, you'll be greeted with a memorable bonne arrivée ('welcome') and a handshake.

Burkina Faso is also home to a lively cultural scene. The capital, Ouagadougou, and Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina's two largest and gloriously named cities, are famous for their musical traditions and beautiful handicrafts.

Tourism infrastructure is fairly limited, but the true gems of Burkina Faso are in the remoter areas, outside of the cities: the enchanting beauty of the landscapes – from rolling savannah and surprising geology to the mesmerising painted houses at Tiébélé – and the unique culture and genuine hospitality of the Burkinabé.

Highlights

Get in touch with your outdoorsy-side at the Ziniaré wildlife park, Lake Tengrela and the national parks of Arly, W and Keux Balés
Hike and trek around Banfora and the Peaks of Sindou
Admire the cliffs of Gobnangoua
Hunt at the Nazinga Ranch
Camp and ride a camel through the desert near Gorom Gorom
Tour Bobo-Dioulasso, its mosque, museum and the old town
Explore the capital city of Ouagadougou
Shop in the grand markets of Bobo-Dioulasso and fairs of Ouagadougou and Gorom Gorom