Best things to do in Burkina Faso

Travel Guide to Burkina Faso: Top Attractions, Places to Visit, and Sightseeing in the Land of Upright People

If you’ve been spinning the globe looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination packed with culture, color, and charisma, your search ends here: welcome to Burkina Faso. This vibrant West African nation might be landlocked, but don’t let that fool you—Burkina is bursting with life, rhythm, and warm-hearted people who know how to make visitors feel right at home. And let’s be honest, how many countries can boast a name that literally means “the land of upright people”? Integrity never looked so interesting.

For the adventurous traveler, this travel guide to Burkina Faso will walk you through the best places to visit, must-know history, and top attractions that make this country a surprisingly exciting choice for sightseeing and cultural immersion.

Where Is Burkina Faso and Why Should You Go?

Nestled in the heart of West Africa, Burkina Faso is surrounded by Mali, Niger, Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire. It covers over 274,000 square kilometers of savannahs, woodlands, and villages that seem straight out of a storybook—if the story includes handmade crafts, drumming circles, and perhaps a dancing goat or two.

Its population is over 15 million strong, and the people—known as Burkinabè—are among the friendliest you’ll ever meet. Here, hospitality is more than a gesture; it’s a lifestyle.

A Bit of Background (With No Boring Bits)

Let’s rewind. Long before it became the modern republic of Burkina Faso, this land was inhabited by hunter-gatherers as far back as 14,000 BC. That’s older than some pyramids and most people's patience during long layovers.

Later, the Mossi kingdoms emerged as powerful players in the region and held their own until the French came calling in the late 1800s. Burkina was a French protectorate until it gained independence in 1960 under the name Upper Volta. In 1984, President Thomas Sankara—Burkina’s Che Guevara with a guitar—renamed the country to Burkina Faso, blending Mòoré and Dioula to mean “the land of upright people” or, more poetically, “home of honest folks.” A name like that deserves a place on your travel bucket list.

Ouagadougou: The Beating Heart of Burkina

Let’s start our travel guide in the capital: Ouagadougou—or as the locals and seasoned travelers call it, “Ouaga.” This energetic city is a chaotic, charismatic, and utterly charming center of Burkinabè life. It’s the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country, and one of the top attractions for urban adventurers.

Here are some things to do in Ouagadougou:

• Visit the National Museum of Burkina Faso: Dive into the country’s history, from tribal kingdoms to French colonization to modern independence. And don’t worry, this isn’t your high school history class—there are masks, instruments, and artifacts that tell powerful stories.

• Grand Mosque of Ouagadougou: A beautiful example of Sahelian architecture and an important cultural site. Don’t forget to admire the craftsmanship and serenity here.

• Village Artisanal de Ouagadougou: Shopping lovers, rejoice! This artisan village is packed with stalls selling handmade jewelry, leather goods, carvings, and woven fabrics. A perfect place to practice your bargaining skills and pick up some one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

• Music and nightlife: Ouaga has a legendary live music scene. From traditional drumming to contemporary Afrobeat, you’ll find rhythms that will keep your feet moving (even if you claim you can’t dance).

Bobo-Dioulasso: Music, Markets, and Old World Charm

Second only to Ouagadougou in size but first in many hearts, Bobo-Dioulasso is another essential stop on any Burkina Faso travel guide. Known for its laid-back vibe and deeply rooted musical traditions, this city is a feast for the senses.

Things to do in Bobo include:

• Explore the Old Mosque: One of the oldest and most impressive mud-brick mosques in West Africa, this site is a must for architecture buffs and culture lovers alike.

• Wander through the old quarter (Kibidwé): This maze of narrow lanes and centuries-old homes will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.

• Catch a live concert: Bobo is the beating drum of Burkina Faso’s music scene. Whether it’s traditional balafon or modern fusion, the city’s soundtrack is unforgettable.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures

Think Burkina Faso is all city life? Think again. The countryside offers breathtaking landscapes and unique sightseeing opportunities.

1. Sindou Peaks

These jagged sandstone formations rise dramatically from the savannah and look like something out of a fantasy novel. Hiking here is one of the top things to do in Burkina Faso—bring your camera and your sense of wonder.

2. Karfiguéla Waterfalls (Cascades de Karfiguéla)

Near Banfora, these stunning falls are a cool escape from the heat. Great for a swim or a picnic, it’s one of the most refreshing places to visit in the country.

3. Lake Tengrela

Want to spot hippos? Lake Tengrela is the place. Hop in a pirogue (local canoe) and glide across the water while your guide tells you all about the lake’s legends—and warns you not to jump in. Seriously, hippos are no joke.

4. Arli National Park

For wildlife enthusiasts, this park offers a chance to see elephants, antelopes, monkeys, and more. It's not the Serengeti, but it’s a safari experience with a fraction of the crowds and a lot more soul.

Culture and Festivals: Colorful, Loud, and Unforgettable

Burkina Faso is a cultural powerhouse. The FESPACO film festival (Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou) is the biggest in Africa and draws filmmakers from all over the continent. It’s a glamorous, intellectual, and artistic event that shows Burkina’s proud role in African storytelling.

Another don’t-miss is the Festival of Masks in Dédougou, where vibrant traditional masks take center stage in a riot of color, dance, and drumming.

Final Tips for Visiting Burkina Faso

• Currency: The West African CFA franc (XOF). Credit cards are not widely accepted—bring cash.

• Languages: French is the official language, but you'll hear Mòoré, Dioula, and other local tongues.

• Getting Around: Buses and shared taxis are common, but for remote areas, hiring a driver is recommended.

• Safety: Like many regions, check travel advisories and local updates, especially in border areas. Most visitors find the people welcoming and helpful.

Why You Should Add Burkina Faso to Your Travel Bucket List

If you're looking for a destination where you can truly connect with local culture, explore landscapes few tourists have seen, and immerse yourself in music, art, and history, Burkina Faso delivers. It’s not your typical tourist hotspot—and that’s exactly what makes it special.

From ancient Mossi kingdoms to modern festivals, from the buzzing streets of Ouagadougou to the peaceful peaks of Sindou, this country is full of surprises. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to fall in love with one of West Africa’s most underrated gems.