Burkina Faso Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Ouagadougou
- Currency
- West African CFA Franc (XOF CFA)
- Best time to visit
- The cooler dry season from November to February is the most comfortable, though current security conditions strongly limit travel.
Visa requirements
Visas are required for most travelers and can be obtained via e-visa or consulate; yellow fever vaccination is mandatory.
Getting around
Buses link Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso, while shared taxis and motorbikes serve towns; road travel beyond cities carries significant security risk.
Safety
Burkina Faso faces a serious ongoing security crisis with widespread armed-group activity and kidnapping risk across much of the country. Most governments advise against all travel; if you must go, stay only in central Ouagadougou and follow expert local advice.
Tipping customs
Tipping is not expected but small gratuities for guides and good service are appreciated.
Travel tips
Carry CFA cash as banking infrastructure is limited and cards rarely work. French is essential, and you should register with your embassy and monitor security updates constantly. Buy an Orange or Telecel SIM and keep a low profile.