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Ouagadougou Travel Tips

Greeting Customs

Politeness starts with respectful greetings in all engagements.

Practices

  • Always greet people, even before a transaction. A handshake is common.
  • Ask "Ça va?" (How are you?) and await a response.
  • Show respect for elders and those in positions of authority.

Appropriate Attire

Dress modestly as a sign of respect for community standards and culture.

Dress Code

  • Conservative dress is recommended for all visitors.
  • For women, shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • For men, slacks are generally preferred over shorts.

Dining & Tipping

Familiarize yourself with local dining customs and tipping practices.

Table Manners

  • Use only your right hand when you are eating, notably from a shared dish.
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated (5-10% in restaurants).
  • It is good manners to accept food offered to you.

Photography Ethics

Be respectful and seek permission before taking photographs of individuals.

Guidelines

  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals.
  • Do not photograph military installations, police, or government buildings.
  • Be especially sensitive when photographing children.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Things to Avoid

  • Refrain from using your left hand for eating or handling money.
  • Avoid gesturing with a finger the soles of your feet at someone.
  • Be cautious discussing local politics or religion with strangers.
  • Showing affection in public is usually frowned upon.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Notes

  • Burkina Faso is a patriarchal and conservative society.
  • Women traveling alone may receive more attention or specific expectations.
  • Homosexuality is not illegal but not openly discussed or widely accepted.
  • Exercise discretion with public displays of affection for same-sex couples.

Cultural Tip

Learn a few basic phrases in French and Mooré. Locals appreciate the effort.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Make choices that benefit local communities and preserve the environment.

Conservation Efforts

Burkina Faso has parks and protected areas reserves, though many are currently unsafe for tourism. Parc Urbain Bangr-Weoogo in Ouagadougou offers a protected green space.

Waste & Water

Waste management is developing. Create less waste, carry reusable items (Package Free Shop), and conserve water due to scarcity.

Carbon Offset

Look into offsetting your flight's carbon footprint with international carbon offset programs like Terrapass to reduce environmental impact.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Seek accommodations and tour operators that focus on the environment practices.

Sustainable Options

  • Search for accommodations with water/energy-saving practices or solar power.
  • Choose tour operators that prioritize local employment and just wages (G Adventures).
  • Consider booking through Ecobnb for eco-friendly accommodation.

Cultural Preservation

Support institutions dedicated to safeguarding Burkinabe culture.

Cultural Sites

  • Visit the National Museum and Centre National d'Artisanat d'Art (CNAA).
  • Support local cultural festivals like FESPACO, FESTIMA, SIAO.
  • Always greet people and use your right hand for interactions.

Ethical Shopping & Giving

Supporting Local

  • Eat at local maquis, stay in locally-owned guesthouses.
  • Support local by buying from markets and shops, look for "Made in Burkina Faso" labels.
  • Purchase crafts directly from artisans at CNAA and Village Artisanal.

Responsible Giving

  • Steer clear of direct handouts to children, which can perpetuate dependency.
  • Donate through established, reputable local NGOs or charities.
  • Consider supporting organizations like The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).

Your Impact

Your choices as a traveler contribute to the local economy and culture. Choose to support responsibly.

Ouagadougou Itinerary Suggestions

Tailor your Ouagadougou visit based on duration and personal interests.

-Hour Layover Highlights

Maximize a quick trip with cultural and historical sites.

Short Stay Plan

  • Morning: Moro-Naba Ceremony (Thursdays, arrive by 6:30 AM), Grande Mosquée, Cathédrale.
  • Lunch: Traditional Burkinabe meal at a local maquis.
  • Afternoon: National Institution or Centre National d'Artisanat d'Art (CNAA).

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A balanced itinerary combining city exploration, arts, and a possible excursion.

Extended Stay Options

  • Day 1: City Center & Culture (Moro-Naba, Grand Marché, Museum).
  • Day 2: Arts & Nature (Parc Urbain Bangr-Weoogo, Village Artisanal).
  • Optional Day 3: Excursion to Laongo Sculpture Symposium or Manega Museum (pre-arrange secure transport).

One-Week Comprehensive

immersion in Ouagadougou with a significant cultural extension.

Week-long Adventure

  • Days 1-3: Ouagadougou immersion, exploring more markets and museums.
  • Days 4-5: Cultural Extension to Bobo-Dioulasso (fly for safety).
  • Days 6-7: Journey back to Ouagadougou, revisit favorite spots, prepare before you leave.

Longer Stays & Interests

For extended visits or specific interests, tailor your experience carefully.

Beyond a Week

  • Two-Week Exploration: Largely unadvisable for tourists due to current security. Focus on Ouagadougou and very limited secure day trips.
  • Long-Term Stay: Apartment rentals are available. Integration through language classes is possible.
  • Historical Focus: Moro-Naba Palace, National Museum, Grand Mosque, Cathedral, colonial building design in Centre Ville.

Interest-Based Routes

Food & Culinary

Market visits (Grand Marché), street food, local maquis, traditional dishes like Tô and Riz Gras. Sample bissap and dolo.

Find local food tours

Art & Architecture

CNAA, Village Artisanal, French Institute exhibitions, Laongo Sculpture Symposium (day trip), colonial architecture.

Explore cultural experiences

Family-Friendly

Parc Urbain Bangr-Weoogo (zoo and nature walks), hotel pools for recreation, pre-arranged private transport for security.

Family activities

Itinerary Planning

For more specific routes and booking experiences, visit GetYourGuide.