Burkina Faso travel tips
Burkina Faso travel tips: Landlocked West African country, Burkina Faso, boasts diverse cultures, vibrant traditions, and the Sahel’s unique landscapes, blending arid savannas with rich heritage.
Regions 🌎
Burkina Faso travel tips. Here is a list of all the regions of the Burkina Faso.
Boucle du Mouhoun
Cascades
Centre
Centre-Est
Est
Centre-Nord
Centre-Ouest
Hauts-Bassins
Centre-Sud
Nord
Plateau-Central
Sahel
Sud-Ouest
Before you go 🛩
Important information you should know before your trip
Info
Capital | Ouagadougou
Flag Codes:
ISO alpha-2 BF,
ISO alpha-3 BFA
Currency
Badge | CFA franc
CODE | XOF
NUMBER | 952
SYMBOL | Fr
FRACTION | penny
Mobile Coverage
Dialing Code | +226
SIM Card
Coverage | 3G / 4G / 5G |
Mobile Networks | Telecel Mobile | MOOV Africa Mobile | Orange Mobile |
Location
Burkina Faso is a landlocked country located in West Africa. The capital city of Burkina Faso is Ouagadougou, which is located in the central part of the country. Burkina Faso is characterized by diverse landscapes, including savannas, plateaus, and a portion of the Sahel region. The country’s geography has a significant impact on its climate, economy, and way of life.
Currency
The currency of Burkina Faso is the West African CFA franc, abbreviated as XOF.
It is one of two currencies in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), with the other being the Central African CFA franc (XAF).
These currencies are used by multiple countries in West and Central Africa, and they are both guaranteed by the French Treasury.
The West African CFA franc is pegged to the euro at a fixed exchange rate.
Languages
Burkina Faso is a linguistically diverse country with several languages spoken across its various ethnic groups. The official language of Burkina Faso, used in government, education, and the media, is French.
In addition to French, there are numerous indigenous languages spoken throughout the country. Some of the major indigenous languages in Burkina Faso include:
Mòoré (Mossi): Mòoré is the most widely spoken indigenous language in Burkina Faso. It is the language of the Mossi people, who make up a significant portion of the population.
Dioula (Jula): Dioula is a Mande language spoken by the Dioula people, particularly in the western and southwestern regions of Burkina Faso. It is also used as a trade language.
Fulfulde (Fula): Fulfulde, a language of the Fula (Fulani) ethnic group, is spoken in various regions of Burkina Faso, including the Sahel and northern areas.
Bambara: Bambara is primarily spoken in the southwestern part of Burkina Faso, near the border with Mali. It is also spoken in Mali and other West African countries.
Gourmanchéma (Gourmantché): Gourmanchéma is spoken by the Gourmantché people, primarily in eastern Burkina Faso.
Sénoufo (Senufo): Sénoufo is spoken by the Sénoufo people in the northern and western regions of Burkina Faso.
Bwamu (Bobo): Bwamu is spoken by the Bobo people in the western part of the country.
Gurma: Gurma is spoken by the Gurma people in the eastern regions of Burkina Faso.
Climate 🌡
Burkina Faso has a predominantly tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The climate varies across the country due to its diverse geography, which includes savannas, plateaus, and desert regions. Here are some key features of Burkina Faso’s climate:
Savanna Climate:
Much of Burkina Faso experiences a savanna climate, characterized by a wet season and a dry season. The climate can be divided into the following main zones:
Sahelian Zone: In the north, Burkina Faso has a Sahelian climate with a short rainy season. Rainfall is limited, and the area is prone to drought. This region is part of the broader Sahel region that spans across West Africa.
Sudano-Sahelian Zone: This transitional zone between the Sahel and the Sudanian climate is characterized by a longer rainy season. Rainfall is relatively higher, allowing for more diverse vegetation.
Sudanian Zone: In the southern part of the country, Burkina Faso has a Sudanian climate with a more pronounced wet season. Rainfall is higher, and this area supports more extensive agriculture and vegetation.
Wet Season:
The wet season typically occurs from May to October, with the peak of rainfall in July and August. During this period, temperatures are cooler, and vegetation becomes lush and green.
Dry Season:
The dry season runs from November to April and is characterized by hot and dry conditions. Rainfall is minimal during this time, and temperatures can be high, particularly in the northern regions.
Harmattan Winds:
During the dry season, Burkina Faso, like other Sahelian countries, can experience the Harmattan winds. These dry, dusty winds blow in from the Sahara Desert and can reduce visibility and make the air feel hazy.
Temperature:
Burkina Faso experiences a wide range of temperatures. In the north, daytime temperatures during the dry season can exceed 40°C (104°F), while in the south, temperatures are generally milder.
Drought and Desertification:
Burkina Faso is vulnerable to drought and desertification, particularly in the Sahelian region. Prolonged droughts can have adverse effects on agriculture and water resources.
Burkina Faso travel tips
If you’re planning a trip to Burkina Faso, here are some travel tips to enhance your experience:
Responsible Tourism:
Minimize your environmental impact, respect local communities, and contribute positively to the places you visit.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Respect local customs and traditions. Learn a few basic phrases in French, the official language.
Safety Precautions:
Stay informed about local safety conditions and follow travel advisories. Keep belongings secure.
Electricity and Adapters:
Check the voltage (220V) and bring the necessary power adapters.
Transportation:
Arrange reliable transportation in advance and be aware of travel times between destinations. View Guide.
Markets and Souvenirs:
Visit local markets for unique crafts and souvenirs. Bargain respectfully.
National Parks:
Explore the diverse wildlife and landscapes in national parks such as Arly and W National Park.
Enjoy your time in Burkina Faso!
The best of the best
Burkina Faso, like many countries in West Africa, has a rich and diverse culinary tradition with a variety of flavorful dishes. The cuisine is influenced by local ingredients, cultural traditions, and regional preferences.
Tô
Tô is a staple food in Burkina Faso and is made from millet or sorghum flour. It is cooked to a smooth, dough-like consistency and served as a ball or mound.
Sauce Graine
This is a popular sauce in Burkina Faso made from ground melon or pumpkin seeds.
Riz Gras
Riz Gras is a flavorful rice dish cooked with tomato sauce, vegetables, and spices.
Here are some typical foods and dishes you might find in Burkina Faso:
Boussou: Boussou is a traditional drink made from millet or sorghum and is often served as a refreshing beverage on hot days.
Poulet Bicyclette: This dish consists of grilled or roasted chicken, often seasoned with local spices. It’s a popular street food in Burkina Faso.
Brochettes: Brochettes are skewered and grilled pieces of meat, typically beef or goat, and are commonly served with spicy sauce and bread.
Banana and Plantain Dishes: Bananas and plantains are used in various ways in Burkinabe cuisine. They can be fried, grilled, or cooked in savory sauces.
Koko: Koko is a traditional breakfast porridge made from millet or sorghum and is typically served with milk and sugar.
Grilled Fish: Burkina Faso has freshwater rivers and lakes, and grilled fish dishes are common, especially in regions near water bodies.
Yam and Peanut Soup: This dish combines yam with a peanut-based sauce, creating a creamy and flavorful soup.
Fruits: Fresh fruits like mangoes, oranges, and papayas are widely available and enjoyed as snacks or desserts.
Dolo: Dolo is a locally brewed millet or sorghum beer and is often consumed during social gatherings and festivals.
Burkina Faso’s cuisine reflects the use of local ingredients, including grains, vegetables, and proteins, to create hearty and flavorful dishes. Meals are often a communal affair, with people sharing large platters of food. Spices and chili peppers are commonly used to add heat and flavor to dishes, making Burkinabe cuisine a vibrant and diverse culinary experience.
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