Burkina Faso Travel Guide

Burkina Faso- General Overview

Although it is not a classic tourist destination, the heart of Western Africa may offer you safari experiences, the atmosphere of former colonial towns such as Bobo-Dioulasso or of the capital city Ouagadougou. It is not a rich country, but it is one of the most stable in the region, trying to help its neighbors as well as to reach a ceasing of conflicts. It is a presidential republic, with a two chambers Parliament.

Burkina Faso -Population

The country is known for having a very small literate population. The level of people attending school is a little over 20 %, still a lot of people speak at least two languages: one of them is traditional like Moore, Bambara, Dioula, Peul and the official one which is French. Their behavior can be set as an example: it is an offence not to answer a greeting, foreigners and women are treated well, neither violence, nor theft are often and ethnic groups get along fine, each with its culture, religion(indigenous, Islam or Catholic) and language. The number of inhabitants is continuously increasing, but the life expectancy is around 40.

Burkina Faso -Cuisine

The local diet mainly consists of cereals, cooked peanuts, vegetable or rice sauces and stews. You may get some proteins from chicken or river fish. Some of the local specialties are “riz gras”, “brochettes” or sauces made with “nere” seeds. You may even taste bush rats, which are considered a delicacy. International cuisine is also available in Burkina Faso (even on streets), still avoid things like doughnuts fried and sold in a local market. Drink the local millet brewed beer or “bissap”, made of hibiscus flowers.

Burkina Faso -Economy

Agriculture is the main occupation for about 85% of the inhabitants. The exports and generally the trade are mainly done with products coming from this sector, such as: sugar cane, rice, peanuts, cotton, corn, sorghum and even animals. Mining and quarries, especially marble ones are another source of income. It is beginning to be looked upon as one of the newest fiscal paradises.

Burkina Faso -Geography and Climate

The country is rather flat, the highest point reaching around 700 meters. The main four rivers flowing in the country are: the Black Volta (or Mouhoun), Komoé, the White Volta (Nakambé) and the Red Volta (Nazinon). The first two have water during the whole year. The country is a fine tropical savanna which does not have an opening to the ocean, but you may enjoy the two national parks and many reserves it offers. The two seasons are dry- during the European winter and wet during summer. It is said the best months for visiting are November and February, exactly at the extremes of the dry season.

Burkina Faso -Things to Take Care of

It is not a dangerous country, but a poor one so taking care of your pockets is a measure of prevention in crowded places. Yellow fever and malaria vaccination are required when visiting. Meningitis and cholera are two other common diseases, but outbreaks are announced so you can avoid getting sick by vaccines or by leaving the zone. Drink only bottled water, as you may get schistosomiasis.