What do you need if you travel to Burkina Faso?

ID and Passports

Burkina Faso generally requires all travelers to present a valid passport for entry. ID cards are not accepted for entry unless you are a citizen of an Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member country, who may be allowed entry with a valid ID card.

Travelers from most countries must present a valid passport to enter Burkina Faso. Visa requirements depend on nationality:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of the following countries can enter Burkina Faso without a visa for stays of up to 90 days:

  • All ECOWAS member countries

Visa on Arrival and eVisa

Certain nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival or may apply for an eVisa online for short stays related to tourism or business.

Visa Required

Travelers from non-visa-exempt countries must apply for a visa at a Burkina Faso embassy or consulate before traveling.

Note: Always verify entry requirements with official government sources or your local embassy, as visa regulations can change.

Toll Roads in Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso has toll roads on certain major highways, particularly those connecting major cities like Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso. Toll fees are typically low, and the funds are used for road maintenance.

Toll Payment Methods:

  • Cash: Toll booths generally accept payments in cash (West African CFA franc - XOF).

Driving Tips in Burkina Faso:

  • Right-Hand Driving: In Burkina Faso, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Speed Limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h, rural roads: 90 km/h, highways: 110 km/h.
  • Road Conditions: Main roads are generally well-maintained, but secondary and rural roads can be poorly surfaced, particularly during the rainy season.

Weather in Burkina Faso

Overview

Burkina Faso has a tropical climate, characterized by hot temperatures year-round, with a dry season and a wet season.

Wet Season (June to October)

The wet season brings rainfall, especially in the southern regions, with occasional thunderstorms. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).

Dry Season (November to May)

The dry season is hot and dusty, with very little rainfall. Temperatures can reach over 40°C (104°F) in the hottest months (March to May). The Harmattan winds, carrying dust from the Sahara, occur during this season.

Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: The cooler months of the dry season, from November to February, are the best time to visit, as temperatures are more moderate.
  • Prepare for Heat: If traveling during the hot season, be prepared for high temperatures, especially in northern areas. Stay hydrated and wear protective clothing.

Currency in Burkina Faso

The official currency of Burkina Faso is the West African CFA franc (XOF), symbolized as CFA.

Banknotes and Coins

The CFA franc is used by several West African countries. Banknotes are available in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 CFA francs. Coins are available in smaller denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 250 francs.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange offices in major cities. ATMs are common in urban areas and allow for easy withdrawal of CFA francs.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas, though cash is often preferred. It's advisable to carry cash when traveling to smaller towns or rural areas.

Travel Tips

  • Carry Small Bills: It’s helpful to carry small bills and coins for minor purchases and tips.
  • Currency Conversion: Be aware that the CFA franc is difficult to exchange outside of West Africa, so exchange any leftover currency before leaving the region.

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