The 115-hectare Forêt de Kou is an unexpected gem: the reserve includes three completely different ecosystems – tropical rainforest, teak plantation and wooded savannah – that visitors can explore through a small network of paths. The rainforest in particular is delightful, remaining blissfully cool even during the midday heat. The forest is about 18km west of Bobo-Dioulasso.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
9.51 MILES
Built in 1893, this mosque is an outstanding example of Sahel-style mud architecture, with conical towers and wooden struts (which both support the…
9.24 MILES
Bobo-Dioulasso's centrepiece, the expansive Grand Marché, is hugely enjoyable and atmospheric, and a wonderful (and largely hassle-free) place to…
9.8 MILES
Bobo's historical centre is a thriving neighbourhood. Little has changed over the centuries in terms of organisation: Muslims, griots (traditional…
16.44 MILES
Perched on the hillside, Koro's houses – built amid rock formations – are unique in the area, and there are fine panoramic views over the countryside from…
4.55 MILES
The village of Koumi, on the Bobo–Orodara road (6km south of Kou), is well-known for its ochre-coloured adobe houses. Villagers run informative guided…
Musée Communal Sogossira Sanon
9.52 MILES
A small museum that showcases masks, statues and ceremonial dress from all over Burkina Faso. There are full-scale examples of traditional buildings…
Nearby Burkina Faso attractions
4.55 MILES
The village of Koumi, on the Bobo–Orodara road (6km south of Kou), is well-known for its ochre-coloured adobe houses. Villagers run informative guided…
9.24 MILES
Bobo-Dioulasso's centrepiece, the expansive Grand Marché, is hugely enjoyable and atmospheric, and a wonderful (and largely hassle-free) place to…
9.51 MILES
Built in 1893, this mosque is an outstanding example of Sahel-style mud architecture, with conical towers and wooden struts (which both support the…
4. Musée Communal Sogossira Sanon
9.52 MILES
A small museum that showcases masks, statues and ceremonial dress from all over Burkina Faso. There are full-scale examples of traditional buildings…
9.8 MILES
Bobo's historical centre is a thriving neighbourhood. Little has changed over the centuries in terms of organisation: Muslims, griots (traditional…
16.44 MILES
Perched on the hillside, Koro's houses – built amid rock formations – are unique in the area, and there are fine panoramic views over the countryside from…