Ouagadougou Centre, Burkina Faso Travel Guide
The Dry Season runs from November to May, subdividing into two phases: Cool Dry (November to February) having temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F), low humidity, and the Harmattan wind carrying dust. The Hot Dry phase (Between march And may) sees temperatures often above 40°C (104°F), peaking at 45°C (113°F) during The month of april and May, with persistently low humidity. This period proves intensely hot.
The Wet Season (June to October) hbecause temperatures averaging 28-32°C (82-90°F) but high humidity. Most annual rainfall (700-900 mm) occurs from July to September, often in heavy, localized downpours and thunderstorms.
High Season (November to February) sees cooler, drier weather, comfortable for outdoor exploration, and lower mosquito activity. This period often aligns with major cultural festivals. Expect more expensive lodging prices and further things tourists, specifically during festival weeks. Book well in advance for these times.
Shoulder Season (March, June, October) means March offers a hot but dry period before heavy rains, with potential for lower prices. June and October mark the beginning and end of the wet season, with lush landscapes and some rain. March can be uncomfortably hot. Rain in June and October might disrupt outdoor plans.
April to May
Lowest prices for flights & accommodation, fewer tourists.
Temperatures above 40°C, challenging for outdoor activities.
July to September
Lowest prices, lush green landscape.
Heavy rainfall, high humidity, increased mosquito activity, difficult travel.
From november To february
Cooler temperatures, lower humidity.
Dust from Sahara, reduces visibility, affects air quality for some.
The Low Season (April to May, July to September) typically has the lowest prices for flights and accommodation. Fewer tourists visit during this time. The landscape appears intensely green during the peak wet season.
April and Could bring intense heat. From July to September, heavy rainfall and high humidity make travel difficult, impacting road conditions and significantly increasing mosquito activity.
Wet season storms cause temporary flooding in low-lying areas.
Above 40°C in April and May. Plan activities for early mornings/late afternoons.
Dry season dust from the Sahara. Reduces visibility, affects air purity.
Significantly up during the wet season.
May worsen with a lot of rains.
Entry into Burkina Faso needs specific documentation. Carefully review visa and entry requirements well before your planned departure.
Most foreign nationals, including those from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU countries, need a visa. Burkina Faso offers tourist, business, and transit visas. Obtain your visa in advance from a Burkina Faso embassy or consulate. An online e-Visa system (Visaburkina.bf) exists, but processing times and reliability vary. Pre-application through an embassy provides the most dependable entry.
Upon arrival at Ouagadougou International Airport (OUA), present your passport, valid visa, and your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate to immigration officials. They will stamp your passport with your entry date. Tourist visas typically range from $100-$150 USD. Confirm the exact fee with the embassy or e-Visa portal.
Ouagadougou has options for various budgets, from budget-conscious travelers to those seeking luxury. The West African CFA Franc (XOF) is the local currency, fixed to the Euro (€1 = 655.957 XOF).
Estimated daily costs for one person, excluding international flights, vary by travel style.
| Category | Budget Traveler (XOF) | Mid-Range Traveler (XOF) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 10,000-20,000 | 26,000-65,000 |
| Meals | 3,000-6,000 | 10,000-20,000 |
| Total Daily (€) | €20-€49 | €75-€170 |
Understand the necessary precautions and available resources for a healthy and secure visit.
For all travelers aged 9 months or older. Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV).
Consult your doctor for personalized advice (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Meningococcal, Rabies, routine vaccines).
High risk. Consult your doctor for antimalarial medication. Use Insect repellent with DEET.
Diarrheal Diseases: Travelers' diarrhea is common.
Only drink bottled or purified water. Don't have ice in drinks. Eat only well-cooked food served hot. Peel fruits yourself. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an Alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Schistosomiasis: Risk from freshwater sources. Avoid swimming or wading in freshwater lakes and rivers. Heat-Related Illnesses: Stay hydrated, seek shade, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat.
Healthcare facilities are limited. Medical evacuation for serious conditions might be necessary.
Tap water is generally unsafe. Drink only commercially Bottled water with an unbroken seal, filtered/purified, or boiled water.
Avoid ice in drinks unless you confirm it comes from purified water.
Choose reputable establishments. Ensure food is thoroughly cooked and served hot. Avoid raw or undercooked meats, unpasteurized dairy, and unwashed produce.
Burkina Faso faces a high threat of terrorism. Attacks can occur anywhere, including in Ouagadougou. Government buildings, hotels, restaurants, and places of worship could be targets. Exercise vigilance and comply with local security advice. Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) occurs in crowded areas. Serious crime (armed robbery, home invasions) also happens. Ouaga 2000 and Zone du Bois are safer in general residential areas.
Be aware of potential geological threats according to the time of year.
Occurs during the wet season (June-October), especially in low-lying areas. This impacts infrastructure and causes disruptions.
A recurring issue affecting farming and water resources.
Harmattan winds during the dry season bring dust, which affects respiratory health.
