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Ouagadougou Travel Resources

Ouagadougou Travel Resources

Ouagadougou Centre, Burkina Faso Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

A structured approach to pre-travel tasks.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Systematic preparation for a hassle-free trip.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check passport expiry (6+ months beyond stay). Renew if needed.

Visa Research & Application

Research requirements, apply through embassy/consulate early.

Health Consultation

Consult doctor for vaccinations (Yellow Fever mandatory).

2

Month Before

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads

Flights & Accommodation

Reserve international flights and main Ouagadougou accommodations.

Security Research

Review current security situation and government travel advisories.

3

Week Before

Document Copies

Make photocopies and digital copies of all documents.

Bank Notification

Inform bank/credit card companies of travel to avoid transaction issues.

Emergency Contacts

Write down local, embassy, insurance contacts; keep accessible.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these before your journey.

Reservations

  • Visa (obtain well in advance).
  • Flights (international travel).
  • Main Hotel Accommodation (high season or festivals).
  • Specialized Tours/Drivers (for excursions outside city).

Pre-Trip Research & Home Prep

Gain insights and prepare your home.

Research Areas

  • Government Travel Advisories (essential for safety).
  • Local Culture and Etiquette (respectful interaction).
  • Security Landscape (current situation awareness).
  • Basic French phrases (language learning).

Home Preparation Before Departure

Prepare your home for your absence.

Notify Contacts

  • Inform family or friends of your itinerary.
  • Provide emergency contacts.
  • Share your travel schedule.
  • Ensure someone has your foreign contact information.

Secure Home

  • Arrange for mail and deliveries.
  • Organize pet care if applicable.
  • Manage utilities and electronics.
  • Ensure your home is secure.

Property Management

  • Arrange for plant watering.
  • Coordinate trash collection.
  • Adjust thermostat for energy saving.
  • Leave a spare with a trusted neighbor.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a priority. Ensure medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations are covered.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth transition on arriving in Ouagadougou.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Present passport, visa, Yellow Fever certificate.

  • 2
    Transport:

    Locate pre-arranged transport or official taxi stand.

  • 3
    SIM Card:

    Purchase a local SIM card with data to keep connected.

Orientation & Purchases

  • Hotel Advice:

    Ask staff for local map, safe areas, transport options.

  • Currency Exchange:

    Exchange small currency at airport; better rates in city.

  • Familiarization Walk:

    Short walk near hotel during daylight hours to explore surroundings.

Initial Arrival Steps

Airport Arrival

Immigration, customs, and Yellow Fever certificate presentation.

Be ready with all necessary documents.

Ground Transport

Use pre-arranged transfer or official taxi for accommodation.

Negotiate fare if using unofficial taxis.

Local Setup

Initial currency exchange and local SIM card purchase.

Aids with immediate expenses and communication.

Connectivity Tip

Purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan upon arrival assists you in staying connected and navigating with ease.

Departure Preparation

Ready for a seamless departure from Ouagadougou.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  1. Plan souvenir purchases based on luggage allowance.
  2. Consider (expensive) pre-arranged shipping options.
  3. Awareness of customs restrictions on artifacts.
  4. Cultural artifacts may have export limitations.
  5. Especially protected materials or historical items.

VAT Refund Procedures

  1. Not applicable for tourists in Burkina Faso.
  2. No VAT refund system exists here.
  3. Focus on local price negotiation.
  4. Direct purchasing supports local economy.
  5. Enjoy tax-free shopping at source.

Airport Arrival Timing

Arrive at Ouagadougou International Airport 2-3 hours before scheduled international flight.

Flight Reconfirmation

Reconfirm your flight status 24-48 hours before departure to avoid surprises.

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm any onward travel if continuing your journey. Ensure all documents are in order.

Document Security

Keep all travel documents, including your Yellow Fever certificate, easily available and in a locked place throughout your trip.

Multiple copies, both physical and digital, provide added security.

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