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Burkina Faso

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In front of the Grande Mosque in Bobo Dioulasso.

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Overview

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.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Cour Royale

    Cour Royale

    Burkina Faso

    More than 450 people live in Tiébélé's royal court, a large compound of typical sukhalas, or traditional painted houses. Children live with their…

  • Sindou Peaks

    Sindou Peaks

    Burkina Faso

    One of Burkina Faso's most spectacular landscapes, the Sindou Peaks are a narrow, craggy chain featuring a fantastic array of tortuous cones sculpted by…

  • Réserve de Nazinga

    Réserve de Nazinga

    Burkina Faso

    This 97,000-hectare wildlife reserve, about 40km southwest of Pô near the Ghanaian border, has become a highlight on many a wildlife-lover’s itinerary…

  • In front of the Grande Mosque in Bobo Dioulasso.

    Grande Mosquée

    Burkina Faso

    Built in 1893, this mosque is an outstanding example of Sahel-style mud architecture, with conical towers and wooden struts (which both support the…

  • Grand Marché

    Grand Marché

    Burkina Faso

    Bobo-Dioulasso's centrepiece, the expansive Grand Marché, is hugely enjoyable and atmospheric, and a wonderful (and largely hassle-free) place to…

  • Niansogoni Village

    Niansogoni Village

    Burkina Faso

    The old Niansogoni village is nestled in an alcove of the escarpment, where you can see old adobe granaries and dwellings that perch on the cliff side…

  • Kibidwé

    Kibidwé

    Burkina Faso

    Bobo's historical centre is a thriving neighbourhood. Little has changed over the centuries in terms of organisation: Muslims, griots (traditional…

  • Karfiguéla Waterfalls

    Karfiguéla Waterfalls

    Burkina Faso

    The Karfiguéla Waterfalls, where you can take a dip in the lovely natural pools on the upper section, are at their best during and just after the rainy…

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