Burkina Faso Travel Facts

The Basics

Country: Burkina Faso

Where is it?: Burkina Faso sits in Western Africa, north of Ghana

Why do people go here?: With very diverse ethnic groups, a few national parks, and a friendly culture, Burkina Faso in an unexplored paradise for an intrepid traveler.

What are the main entry points?: Regional airlines service the capital, as well as Air France.

Currency used: West African Franc

Country Code for Phones: 226

Religion: Animist 65%, Muslim 25%, Roman Catholic and Christian 10%

Population: 15.7 million

Ethnic Breakdown: Mossi 30%, Fulani, Lobi, Malinke, Bobo, Senufo, Gurunsi

Government: Semi-presidential Republic

Travel Information

Languages: French, Indigenous

Major Cities: Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso

Attractions: Parc National d’Arli

Accommodation: Guinea Hostels

Tourism Office locations and links: Burkina Faso-Ministry of Environment and Tourism, P.O. Box 624 Ave de la Resistance du 17 Mai Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Resérve de Nazinga

Health Issues: Malaria, Diarrhea

Tips for Visiting

When to go: November through February are the best times to visit. The rainy season is in July and August.

Common Phrases: Hello = Bonjour, How are you? = Comment allez-vous?, Good = Bien or Bon, Yes = Oui, Okay = D’accord or OK, No = Non, Thank you = Merci, Please = S’il vous plaît, Goodbye = Au revoir

Specific Events/Holidays: Labour Day: May 1, Revolution Day: August 4, Independence Day: August 5, Anniversary of Sankara’s Overthrow: October 15, All Saints Day: November 1, Variable Islamic Holidays

Getting Around: Bus, trains, and taxis service most major roads

Cheapest airport to fly into: The main airport for travelers taking flights to Burkina is the Ouagadougou Airport.

Need more information?: Check out the Burkina travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.