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Burkina Faso

The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office advise against all travel to the following areas: northern Burkina Faso (anywhere north of Boulsa); areas within 40km of the Niger and Mali borders; and the south-eastern provinces of Gourma, Kompienga, and Tapoa (including the W National Park and the Arly National Park). Advisories against all-but-essential travel exist for the rest of the country. Click here for more information.

Burkina should be on everyone's travel list, but sadly the current security situation means the unforgettable journey here will have to wait. The country may not have many big-ticket attractions, but the warmth of its welcome and the friendliness of the Burkinabé people is unique. When it's again safe to travel, you'll be greeted with a memorable bonne arrivée ('welcome') and a handshake.

Burkina Faso is also home to a lively cultural scene. The capital, Ouagadougou, and Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina's two largest and gloriously named cities, are famous for their musical traditions and beautiful handicrafts.

Tourism infrastructure is fairly limited, but the true gems of Burkina Faso are in the remoter areas, outside of the cities: the enchanting beauty of the landscapes – from rolling savannah and surprising geology to the mesmerising painted houses at Tiébélé – and the unique culture and genuine hospitality of the Burkinabé.

Explore Burkina Faso

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Burkina Faso.

Guidebooks

Learn more about Burkina Faso

Ready to go? Get to the heart of Burkina Faso with one of Lonely Planet's in-depth, award-winning guidebooks.

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