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Bobo-dioulasso Travel Resources

Bobo-dioulasso Travel Resources

Bobo-dioulasso Hauts-bassins, Burkina Faso Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • Maps.me or Organic Maps:

    Download offline maps of Bobo-Dioulasso and the surrounding region.

  • Google Translate:

    Download French for offline use to bridge language barriers.

  • WhatsApp:

    Widely used for communication in Burkina Faso.

  • NordVPN:

    Consider a VPN service for secure internet browsing while traveling. NordVPN

  • Online Learning:

    Babbel helps with language learning before your trip. Babbel

Useful Websites for Planning

  • US Department of State Travel Advisories:

    Provides up-to-date security information (travel.state.gov).

  • UK FCDO Travel Advice:

    Offers current travel recommendations (gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/burkina-faso).

  • Wikipedia:

    Use for general background information on Bobo-Dioulasso and Burkina Faso.

  • Guidebook Publishers:

    Check Lonely Planet/Bradt Guides for the latest editions and updates on West Africa or Burkina Faso.

  • Social Media:

    Follow regional tourism offices (if active) and reputable news sources for security updates.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

Bradt Guide to Burkina Faso (if available and updated) or Lonely Planet West Africa provide detailed region information.

Local Maps

Local maps of Bobo-Dioulasso may be available at hotels or tourist offices upon arrival.

Books & Publications

Seek out books on West African history, culture, or literature. Local newspapers (in French) give current events.

Emergency & Medical Information

Contacts

  • Police: 17
  • Fire: 18
  • Medical: 112
  • Hospital addresses: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Souro Sanou (CHUSS), Polyclinique Avenir.

Protocols & Prevention

  • Embassy information: Keep contact details for your country's embassy in Ouagadougou.
  • Lost document procedures: Report any lost documents to local police immediately, then contact your embassy.
  • Natural disaster protocols: Monitor local news and weather reports in the wet season for flood warnings.
  • Health preparations: Consult a travel health clinic for vaccinations and antimalarials.

Further Reading & Exploration

Visual & Audio Media

  • Look for films by Burkinabè directors or documentaries about West African culture.
  • FESPACO (Panafrican Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou) showcases many relevant works.
  • Listen to West African music, specifically from Burkina Faso (e.g., Farafina, Victor Démé).
  • This immerses you in the local sounds.

Online Communities

  • TripAdvisor forums or Facebook groups for expats in Burkina Faso.
  • These resources offer useful advice and connections.
  • Engage with experienced travelers for practical tips.
  • Share your plans and receive feedback.

Language Learning

  • Utilize apps like Duolingo or Memrise for French.
  • Explore local language lessons for French and Dioula.
  • Basic phrases enhance interactions with locals.
  • Even a few words open doors to warmer welcomes.

Travel Safety & Security

Current Advisories

Government Travel Advice

  • Consult official government sources for the most recent travel advisories.
  • These provide up-to-date security information.
  • Adjust your travel plans based on official guidance.
  • Security conditions can change rapidly.

Local News & Updates

  • Stay informed through local news channels.
  • Follow reputable international news outlets for regional updates.
  • Local contacts can provide real-time information.
  • Exercise caution and discretion at all times.

Situational Awareness

  • Remain vigilant in public places and avoid large gatherings.
  • Be discreet with valuables.
  • Inform someone of your itinerary, especially if traveling to remote areas.
  • Always bring a duplicate of your identification documents.

Health Precautions

Vaccinations & Medications

  • Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory; carry your certificate.
  • Consult a travel health clinic for recommended vaccinations and antimalarials.
  • Pack a basic first-aid kit with any of your own medicines.

Travel Insurance

  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage.
  • Ensure your policy covers activities you plan to undertake.
  • World Nomads offers rules for various adventurous activities. World Nomads

Financial Security

Money Handling

  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash.
  • Let your bank know you are traveling plans to prevent card issues.
  • Have multiple payment methods available.

Document Safeguarding

  • Make multiple copies of all important documents (digital and physical).
  • Store copies separately from originals, preferably in cloud storage.
  • Consider a travel safe or secured bag for valuables.

Before You Go: Essential Checks

Documents

  1. Passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
  2. Valid visa for Burkina Faso.
  3. Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
  4. Comprehensive travel insurance policy.
  5. Copies of all important documents stored digitally and physically.

Practical Preparations

  1. Book international and domestic flights.
  2. Arrange initial accommodation in Bobo-Dioulasso.
  3. Organize airport transfers.
  4. Download offline maps and translation apps.
  5. Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.

Quick Glance: Packing & Planning

Packing Essentials

Light, modest dress, insect repellent, sun protection, and a basic medical kit.

Booking Priorities

Visa, flights, initial accommodation, and inter-city bus tickets.

Research

Current security situation from official government sources and updated guidebooks.

Important Security Notice

Before any travel to Burkina Faso, consult your government's latest travel advisories. Security situations can be volatile and require continuous monitoring. Prioritize your safety above all else.

Arrival & Departure

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Immigration & Customs:

    Clear immigration and customs. Have your Yellow Fever certificate ready for inspection.

  • Local Currency:

    Obtain local currency from an ATM or exchange at a bank.

  • Local SIM Card:

    Purchase a local SIM card for connectivity.

Transportation & Orientation

  • To Accommodation:

    Use your pre-arranged pickup, a certified taxi, or a mototaxi to reach your lodging.

  • Initial Purchases:

    Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival.

  • Orientation:

    Familiarize yourself with your immediate surroundings and local transport options.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs

Purchase souvenirs in time to pack them or arrange shipping. Inquire about costs and customs regulations if shipping.

VAT Refunds

Value Added Tax (VAT) refund procedures are not applicable in Burkina Faso.

Timing

Arrive at the airport or bus station well in advance of your scheduled departure time. Allow extra time for potential delays.

Return Journey Logistics

Final Checks

  • Reconfirm your flights or bus departure times.
  • Pack your luggage carefully, ensuring no forbidden items are present.
  • Prepare your home for your return by canceling mail holds or setting the thermostat.
  • Review your packing list to ensure nothing is left behind.

Post-Trip Considerations

  • Keep receipts for any expenses that might be covered by travel insurance.
  • Share your travel experiences and insights with others.
  • Provide feedback to accommodations or tour operators.
  • Organize your photos and memories to revisit your journey.

Home Preparation

Security & Communications

  • Secure your home by locking all windows and doors.
  • Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Suspend mail or newspaper deliveries.
  • Notify utilities if you is set to be away for an extended period.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange care for pets.
  • Arrange care for plants.
  • Ensure caregivers have all necessary instructions and contact information.
  • Set home temperatures to preserve energy while you're away.

Helpful Tip

Create a digital folder on your phone or in cloud storage. Include scans of your passport, visa, flight tickets, insurance policy, and hotel reservations. This offers a backup if physical documents are lost.