Table of Contents
Introduction
Nestled in West Africa, Burkina Faso is an under-the-radar destination that offers intrepid travelers plenty of unique experiences. From wildlife safaris to cultural festivals, historical sites to outdoor adventures, Burkina Faso has something for every type of traveler looking to get off the beaten path.
With a landscape dominated by sparse savannas, plateaus and plains, Burkina Faso may not seem like an obvious tourist destination. But its remote natural areas, vibrant cultural traditions, and genuinely hospitable people make it an enchanting place to visit. Free from crowds of tourists, you can immerse yourself in authentic African experiences. Read on for some of the top unique travel experiences Burkina Faso has to offer.
Nature and Wildlife
Burkina Faso’s protected wildlife areas provide opportunities to spot incredible animals in their natural habitat. Head to Nazinga Game Ranch, the country’s largest wildlife reserve, to see elephants, antelopes, monkeys, warthogs, crocodiles and over 400 bird species. The ranch offers both day visits and overnight stays.
In the north, the Gorom-Gorom Reserve in the Djibo region safeguards a population of wild cheetahs. Walking safaris allow you to scout for cheetahs as well as ostriches, gazelles, jackals and rare red-fronted gazelles.
For birdwatchers, the wetlands of the Liptako-Gourma Authority are a must-visit. Over 300 species of resident and migratory birds flock here, including the Egyptian plover, African skimmer and African fish eagle.
Festivals and Events
From film to folklore, Burkina Faso’s festivals showcase the best of the country’s art and culture. Cinema takes center stage at FESPACO, Africa’s largest film festival held biennially in Ouagadougou. For two weeks, the festival screens feature films and shorts from across Africa and the diaspora.
In Bobo-Dioulasso, the SIAO (International Arts and Crafts Fair) highlights Burkina Faso’s talented artisans. Textiles, leatherwork, jewelry, sculpture and more are exhibited and sold at this vibrant trade show.
For a crash course in Burkinabé music, dance and customs, visit during National Culture Week in Bobo-Dioulasso. Traditional bands perform nightly against a backdrop of captivating masks and costumes.
Historical and Cultural Sites
From ancient ruins to contemporary culture, Burkina Faso has no shortage of immersive historical and cultural attractions. The mosques of Bobo-Dioulasso provide a look into the country’s Islamic heritage and architecture, including the unique conical Sudanese-style Grande Mosquée.
Remnants of an early Sudanese empire, the Loropeni Ruins comprise the stone walls of a 900-year old compound. The site provides insight into the medieval trans-Saharan gold trade.
In southwest Burkina Faso, Laongo’s carved rocks are thought to be the oldest known monolith sculptures in sub-Saharan Africa. Dating back around 3,000 years, the engravings depict wild animals and symbolic figures.
Outdoor Adventures
Looking for an active getaway? Burkina Faso delivers outdoor adventures spanning desert, savanna and river ecosystems. Trekking through the Sahel reveals sweeping landscapes dotted with baobab trees and nomadic encampments. Camel rides offer another vantage point to soak in the desert scenery.
For river-lovers, grab a kayak and navigate the Mouhoun River. Along with scenic paddling, you can stop along the banks to swim or picnic. Rafting packages along the Black Volta river are also available for an adrenaline rush.
And for stargazers, camping under Burkina’s expansive night skies provides unparalleled views of the Milky Way. Far from light pollution, shooting stars are a nightly occurrence.
Unique Accommodations
Skipping standard hotels for a more authentic lodging experience is easy in Burkina Faso. In the southwest, visitors can bed down in traditional Tiébélé mud-brick houses decorated with striking painted designs. Gazing at the starry sky and sleeping under the stars at a desert or savanna campsite makes for magical nights.
Eco-lodges like Campement de Farako-bâ in the southwest provide rustic lodging in harmony with nature. Thatched bungalows cooled by natural air flow allow you to fall asleep to a symphony of night sounds.
Local Cuisine
Burkina Faso’s cuisine reflects the crops and traditions of its varied ethnic groups. Street food stands in the capital serve Benga – skewered, grilled meat served with a piquant mustard vinaigrette. Made from fermented sorghum or millet, Dolo beer accompanies many meals.
For a hands-on food experience, take a cooking class to learn traditional Moré preparations like tô sauce, made from ground millet, and kapokaden, a chicken and vegetable stew. Exploring the flavors at the source gives you a deeper connection to the culture.
Shopping for Handicrafts
Burkina Faso offers many unique handcrafted goods to bring home as mementos. From the Bobo-Dioulasso region comes intricate Bogolan fabrics, hand-dyed using botanical motifs in an ancient Malian technique. Also prized are Faso Dan Fani fabrics woven from cotton and tie-dyed.
Wood carvings, like the antelope figures of the Bwa people, demonstrate excellent craftsmanship. Other handicrafts to look for include leathergoods, woven baskets, silver jewelry and sculpture. At craft markets, you can meet the artisans and learn about their creative process.
Conclusion
For travelers yearning to go off script and dive into authentic experiences, Burkina Faso promises a rewarding journey. Beneath the surface, you’ll discover nature, culture, history and adventure beyond the typical tourist track. By venturing into the unknown, your spirit of discovery will be fed. Burkina Faso awaits – are you ready to be enchanted?
FAQs
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Burkina Faso?
A: The dry season from November to February is ideal, with warm sunny days. Rains start in March and the weather stays hot into September.
Q: What vaccinations are recommended for Burkina Faso?
A: Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Meningitis, Yellow Fever, and an annual malaria prophylactic.
Q: Is Burkina Faso safe to visit?
A: Exercise normal precautions, especially near borders with Mali and Niger. Avoid non-essential travel to border areas. Overall Burkina Faso is quite safe, especially in cities.
Q: How do I get around Burkina Faso?
A: Shared taxis connect most major towns. Buses run daily routes between Ouaga and Bobo. Rental cars are available in cities. Consider hiring a guide and driver.
Q: What languages are spoken in Burkina Faso?
A: French is the official language. Local languages include Moore, Dyula, Fulfulde and Hausa. In cities and main tourist areas, English is spoken. Learn some key phrases in French or Moore.