Burkina Faso

The Land of Upright
People and Cultural Richness

Flag of Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa, is renowned for its diverse cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and resilient spirit. Home to iconic landmarks like the sacred crocodile ponds of Sabou, the Ruins of Loropéni, and the vibrant markets of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary experiences. The country's landscape ranges from arid Sahel in the north to lush savannas in the south.

Burkinabé culture is a rich tapestry of ethnic traditions, reflected in its colorful festivals, intricate crafts, and cuisine featuring dishes like tô (millet paste) and riz gras (spiced rice). Known for its warm hospitality, thriving music scene, and as the home of the FESPACO film festival, Burkina Faso presents a captivating destination that combines cultural richness with a developing tourism industry.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Burkina Faso.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in Burkina Faso.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from some West African nations (e.g., Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal) can enter Burkina Faso with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa, often obtaining a visa on arrival or through an e-Visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations outside the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Burkina Faso, typically through an e-Visa or at an embassy.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry unless specified by Burkina Faso’s visa policy.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry unless specified.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry unless specified.

ID Card Entry
The following citizens can enter Burkina Faso using only a valid national ID card:

  • None (Burkina Faso does not currently allow entry with national ID cards; a passport is required for all foreign nationals).

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions at https://www.gouv.bf/covid-19/.
Toll

Driving in Burkina Faso

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, there are no major toll roads in Burkina Faso, but tolls may apply on specific bridges or infrastructure, such as:

  • Ouagadougou-Bobo-Dioulasso Highway: Potential toll sections near major cities (if implemented, check status).

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Burkinabe Road Authority website: https://www.ard.bf/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: West African CFA Franc (XOF) is accepted at toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at most toll points (where applicable), but availability may be limited.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is being implemented. Check https://www.gouv.bf/ for updates.

Driving in Burkina Faso

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 90 km/h
    • Highways: 110 km/h
  • Road conditions: Vary; exercise caution, especially on rural or unpaved roads, which may become impassable during the rainy season (June to September).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Recommended alongside your national driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Burkina Faso is considering implementing a vignette system for road use. Check https://www.ard.bf/ for the latest information.
  • Road Safety: Remain vigilant, especially at night or in rural areas, due to poor lighting, reckless driving, and potential roadblocks or security checkpoints, particularly in areas affected by terrorism and banditry.
  • GPS and Maps: While GPS is generally reliable, keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Burkina Faso Currency

Official Currency
The official currency of Burkina Faso is the West African CFA Franc (XOF).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 XOF
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 250, 500 XOF
  • Symbol: CFA

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct CFA Franc withdrawals, but rare outside major cities; international cards may face restrictions or fraud risks.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas, due to a cash-based economy and limited card acceptance.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments, but acceptance is rare outside urban areas and fraud is common.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas, as cards are not widely accepted and ATM fraud is prevalent.
  • Check for currency conversion fees and potential restrictions when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of West African States website: https://www.bceao.int/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is generally safe for travelers, with moderate crime rates and a reputation for hospitality, but understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit due to security concerns. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Burkina Faso, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political topics, especially those related to recent coups, terrorism, or regional tensions with Mali and Niger, insensitively.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but not widely accepted; public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention or legal issues.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, government buildings, or critical infrastructure. Always ask permission for portraits of locals, as security concerns may lead to scrutiny.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over €10,000 (or equivalent, approximately 6,500,000 XOF), especially when traveling to non-WAEMU member states.

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., along the Mouhoun River) must allow free access within designated zones. Wheelchair access is legally mandated.

Key Resources

Burkina Faso Travel Safety

Burkina Faso poses significant safety challenges for travelers due to high crime rates, political instability, and terrorism risks, but travelers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Burkina Faso.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like Ouagadougou’s markets or public transport. Violent crime, including armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping, is common, especially in border areas and rural regions near Mali, Niger, and Côte d'Ivoire, where terrorist groups operate. Avoid walking alone on beaches or isolated areas at any time, as robberies are frequent.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Burkina Faso is considered unsafe, particularly for solo travelers. Avoid isolated areas at all times, especially at night, and travel with trusted guides or groups due to risks of terrorist attacks, armed robbery, and sexual assault, though foreign visitors are less likely to be targeted.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving is dangerous due to poor road conditions, reckless drivers, and potential roadblocks or security checkpoints, particularly in areas affected by terrorism and banditry.
    • Avoid night driving in all areas due to high crime rates, poor lighting, and road hazards.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety: Avoid tap water; drink bottled water. Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea, which is common due to sanitation challenges. All meals should be eaten while still hot, and uncooked fruit and vegetables avoided unless peeled or washed in safe water.
  • Vaccinations: Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, typhoid, yellow fever (required for all travelers over 9 months of age), and meningitis (during the dry season, November to June). Rabies vaccination is advised for those spending extended periods outdoors or at risk of animal bites.
  • Yellow Fever: Required for all travelers over 9 months of age entering Burkina Faso.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against mosquitoes (risk of malaria) and ticks (risk of other diseases). Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for all travelers in all areas.
  • Altitude Sickness: No significant risk in Burkina Faso (low elevation).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Clinique La Souveraine in Ouagadougou offer higher standards, but public healthcare is severely limited. Rural areas often lack advanced care, and medical evacuation to France or Côte d'Ivoire may be necessary for serious treatment.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications, often limited in rural areas.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, as facilities may be inadequate, and air ambulance transport to France or Côte d'Ivoire is often necessary.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 112 | Fire: 18 | Police: 17.
  • Tourist Police (Ouagadougou): +226 25 30 60 60.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural areas, especially during the rainy season. Check insurance coverage for rentals, but avoid driving due to safety risks.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Sahel region), but avoid remote areas due to security concerns and terrorism risks.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious issues, especially related to recent coups or terrorism.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Ouagadougou; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Burkina Faso

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