Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Burkina Faso's vibrant capital and ease into the rhythm of West African life with a gentle introduction to the city's landmarks and local atmosphere.
Morning
Arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at
Ouagadougou Airport and transfer to your accommodation in the city center. Take time to settle in, rest from your journey, and get oriented with your surroundings. Exchange currency and purchase a local SIM card if needed. The morning allows for recovery from travel and initial exploration of your neighborhood on foot.
3-4 hours
$15-25 (airport transfer and essentials)
Arrange airport pickup through your accommodation in advance for easier arrival
Lunch
A local maquis restaurant near your hotel
Traditional Burkinabé dishes like riz gras or tô
Budget
Afternoon
Visit Bangr Weogo Park
Explore this urban nature reserve in the heart of
Ouagadougou, offering a peaceful introduction to local flora and fauna. Walk the trails through this 260-hectare park, spot local bird species, and visit the small museum showcasing traditional Burkinabé culture. The park provides a tranquil escape from the city bustle and helps you acclimate to the climate gradually.
2-3 hours
$3-5 (entrance fee)
Evening
Sunset stroll and dinner
Walk through the nearby neighborhoods to observe daily life, then enjoy dinner at a casual outdoor restaurant serving grilled meats and local specialties
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ouagadougou (Mid-range hotel with air conditioning)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and restaurants while offering comfortable amenities for your first nights
Ouagadougou can be very hot during the day; carry water at all times and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon
Day 1 Budget: $65-85
Dive into Burkina Faso's history and culture through its premier museum and iconic monuments, understanding the nation's journey and values.
Morning
Begin your cultural education at this excellent museum showcasing traditional masks, musical instruments, pottery, and textiles from Burkina Faso's diverse ethnic groups. The exhibits provide essential context for understanding the country's cultural heritage, including displays on traditional ceremonies, crafts, and daily life. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the well-preserved artifacts and informative displays about Mossi, Fulani, and other cultures.
2-3 hours
$5-8 (entrance and guide)
Arrive when it opens at 9 AM to avoid heat and have the best light for photography
Lunch
A restaurant in the Koulouba district
West African cuisine with French influences
Mid-range
Afternoon
Monument of National Heroes and city landmarks
Visit this striking monument commemorating Burkina Faso's independence and national heroes. The impressive structure offers insights into the country's post-colonial history and national pride. Afterward, explore the surrounding government district, observing the architecture and urban planning of the capital. The area provides excellent photo opportunities and a sense of
Ouagadougou's civic identity.
2 hours
$2-3
Evening
Live music and local nightlife
Experience
Ouagadougou's vibrant music scene at an outdoor venue featuring traditional balafon music or modern Afrobeat performances
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ouagadougou (Same hotel as Day 1)
Maintaining your base allows for deeper exploration of the capital without repacking
Many venues have live music on Thursday through Saturday nights; check locally for current schedules and popular performers
Day 2 Budget: $55-75
Explore
Ouagadougou's religious diversity and bustling commercial heart, experiencing the spiritual and economic pulse of the city.
Morning
Visit these two important religious landmarks showcasing Burkina Faso's religious harmony. The cathedral features distinctive architecture blending European and African design elements, while the grand mosque demonstrates beautiful Islamic architecture with its imposing minaret. Dress modestly and visit respectfully, observing the peaceful coexistence of different faiths. The contrast between these sacred spaces illustrates the country's religious tolerance.
2-3 hours
$0-2 (donations appreciated)
Visit the mosque outside prayer times, and women should bring a headscarf
Lunch
A street food vendor near the Grand Marché
Grilled brochettes and aloco (fried plantains)
Budget
Afternoon
Grand Marché shopping experience
Immerse yourself in the sensory overload of
Ouagadougou's main market, where vendors sell everything from colorful fabrics and traditional clothing to spices, crafts, and household goods. Practice your bargaining skills while shopping for souvenirs like bronze castings, leather goods, and hand-woven baskets. The market offers authentic cultural interaction and insight into daily commerce and social life.
2-3 hours
$20-40 (shopping)
Evening
Relaxed dinner and reflection
Enjoy a leisurely meal at a garden restaurant with international cuisine, allowing time to organize your purchases and rest before tomorrow's journey
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Ouagadougou (Same hotel as previous nights)
Final night in the capital before departing for Bobo-Dioulasso
Keep small bills for market purchases and guard belongings carefully in crowded areas; hire a local guide if you want deeper market insights
Day 3 Budget: $60-90
Travel across Burkina Faso's landscapes to reach the country's cultural capital, experiencing rural life and roadside communities along the way.
Morning
Road trip to Bobo-Dioulasso
Depart early for the approximately 6-hour journey to Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso's second-largest city. The route passes through typical Sahelian landscapes, small villages, and agricultural areas where you'll observe rural life. Stop at roadside villages to stretch, interact with locals, and perhaps purchase fresh fruit or snacks. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of everyday Burkinabé life beyond the capital.
6-7 hours including stops
$40-60 (private taxi or bus fare)
Book a private taxi for comfort and flexibility to stop, or take the morning bus for budget travel
Lunch
A roadside stop in Koudougou or another town en route
Simple local dishes and grilled meats
Budget
Afternoon
Arrival and orientation in Bobo-Dioulasso
Arrive in Bobo-Dioulasso in the afternoon and check into your accommodation. Take a gentle walking tour of your neighborhood to get oriented with this more relaxed, culturally rich city. Visit a local café to rest and observe the different pace and atmosphere compared to
Ouagadougou. The tree-lined streets and colonial architecture create a distinct ambiance worth savoring.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Welcome dinner in Bobo
Dine at a traditional restaurant in the old quarter, sampling local specialties while enjoying the cooler evening temperatures
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Bobo-Dioulasso (Guesthouse or small hotel near the old town)
Proximity to major attractions and the authentic atmosphere of Bobo's historic center
Bobo-Dioulasso is generally cooler and more humid than
Ouagadougou, creating a more comfortable climate for exploration
Day 4 Budget: $70-95
Discover the magnificent Grande Mosquée and explore the historic quarters that make Bobo-Dioulasso the cultural heart of Burkina Faso.
Morning
Grande Mosquée de Bobo-Dioulasso
Visit this stunning example of Sudano-Sahelian architecture, one of West Africa's most beautiful mosques. Built in 1880 entirely from mud bricks and wooden supports, the mosque features distinctive conical towers and requires annual restoration after the rainy season. Take a guided tour to learn about the construction techniques and Islamic traditions. The surrounding Dioulassoba quarter adds to the authentic historical atmosphere with its traditional compounds.
2-3 hours
$5-8 (guide and donation)
Hire an official guide at the entrance; non-Muslims typically cannot enter but can appreciate the exterior and courtyard
Lunch
A local eatery in the Kibidwe neighborhood
Burkinabé staples like sauce d'arachide with rice
Budget
Afternoon
Old Town exploration and craft workshops
Wander through Bobo's historic quarters, visiting traditional craft workshops where artisans create bronze sculptures, pottery, and woven goods using centuries-old techniques. The narrow streets reveal traditional Sudanese-style architecture and offer opportunities to interact with craftspeople. Visit a local market specializing in traditional medicines and herbs, learning about indigenous healing practices still widely used today.
3 hours
$10-20 (purchases)
Evening
Cultural performance
Attend a traditional music and dance performance if available, or enjoy the lively atmosphere at an outdoor bar with local beer and conversation
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Bobo-Dioulasso (Same accommodation as previous night)
Continue exploring Bobo from your established base
Friday is the main prayer day; visit the mosque area on other days for better access and photo opportunities
Day 5 Budget: $50-70
Venture beyond the city to experience natural sites and traditional villages, gaining insight into rural life and sacred natural spaces.
Morning
Visit to sacred fish ponds
Take a morning excursion to nearby sacred catfish ponds in Dafra village, where hundreds of catfish are considered sacred by local communities. Observe traditional ceremonies and learn about the spiritual significance of these sites in local animist beliefs. The ponds offer a fascinating glimpse into pre-Islamic traditions that continue alongside other faiths. Local guides explain the legends and customs surrounding these protected fish.
3 hours
$15-25 (transport and guide)
Arrange through your accommodation for reliable transport and knowledgeable guides
Lunch
A simple restaurant back in Bobo-Dioulasso
Grilled fish with attiéké (cassava couscous)
Budget
Afternoon
Music museum and instrument makers
Visit workshops where traditional instruments like the balafon, djembe drums, and kora are crafted by master artisans. Learn about the role of music in Burkinabé culture and perhaps try playing some instruments. If time permits, explore local galleries showcasing contemporary Burkinabé art, which blends traditional themes with modern expressions. The afternoon provides cultural enrichment through the country's vibrant artistic traditions.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Farewell to Bobo dinner
Enjoy a special meal at a garden restaurant featuring live music, celebrating your time in this cultural capital
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Bobo-Dioulasso (Same accommodation)
Final night in Bobo before returning to Ouagadougou region
Balafons make wonderful souvenirs but are bulky; consider purchasing a small kalimba (thumb piano) instead for easier transport
Day 6 Budget: $60-85
Travel back to the capital region with opportunities to visit sites missed on the outbound journey, then settle in for deeper exploration of
Ouagadougou's surroundings.
Morning
Departure from Bobo-Dioulasso
Depart Bobo-Dioulasso for the return journey to
Ouagadougou, taking a different route if possible to see new landscapes and villages. Make strategic stops at pottery villages or weaving communities where you can observe traditional crafts in their authentic rural context. The journey offers final opportunities to photograph the Burkinabé countryside and interact with communities along the route.
6-7 hours including stops
$40-60 (transport)
Depart early to arrive in
Ouagadougou with time to settle in
Lunch
A roadside restaurant in a market town
Local specialties and fresh seasonal fruits
Budget
Afternoon
Arrive back in the
Ouagadougou region and check into accommodation. Take the afternoon to rest, do laundry, and organize your belongings after several days of travel. Visit a modern shopping area if you need any supplies or want to experience contemporary Burkinabé urban life. The downtime allows recovery before the second week of exploration.
3-4 hours
$5-10
Evening
Casual evening
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a familiar restaurant, reflecting on your experiences and preparing for the week ahead
Where to Stay Tonight
Ouagadougou or nearby town (Comfortable hotel with good amenities)
A comfortable base for exploring the greater Ouagadougou area in the coming days
Use this evening to charge all devices and prepare for potential day trips to areas with less reliable electricity
Day 7 Budget: $70-90
Honor Burkina Faso's revolutionary history and explore the legacy of Thomas Sankara, one of Africa's most influential leaders.
Morning
Mémorial Thomas Sankara
Visit this important memorial dedicated to Thomas Sankara, Burkina Faso's revolutionary president from 1983-1987, who remains an icon of African independence and social justice. The site marks where Sankara and twelve companions were assassinated. Learn about his progressive policies, pan-African vision, and lasting impact on Burkinabé national identity. The memorial provides crucial context for understanding modern Burkina Faso's political culture and values.
2 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A café in the Gounghin neighborhood
Light meals and refreshments
Budget
Afternoon
CERFI and contemporary culture
Visit CERFI (Centre d'Etudes, de Recherche et de Formation Islamiques) to understand Islamic education and scholarship in Burkina Faso. The center represents the country's intellectual traditions and religious education. Afterward, explore nearby neighborhoods, visiting local galleries or cultural centers that showcase contemporary Burkinabé art, literature, and social movements. The afternoon balances historical understanding with current cultural expressions.
3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Cinema or cultural event
Ouagadougou hosts FESPACO, Africa's largest film festival; visit a cinema showing African films or attend a cultural event if available
Where to Stay Tonight
Ouagadougou (Same accommodation as previous night)
Maintaining your base for efficient exploration
Thomas Sankara's legacy remains powerful in Burkina Faso; locals appreciate respectful interest in his history and ideas
Day 8 Budget: $50-70
Journey to nearby villages to experience traditional rural life, local ceremonies, and the agricultural practices that sustain most Burkinabé families.
Morning
Visit to Paroisse saint Camille de Dagoën
Travel to this parish church in a nearby community, experiencing religious life outside the capital. The visit offers insights into how Catholicism has been adapted to local contexts and the role of mission churches in rural education and healthcare. Observe or participate in morning services if timing allows, experiencing the blend of European liturgy with African musical and cultural expressions.
2-3 hours
$10-15 (transport)
Lunch
A village meal with a local family if arranged, or simple restaurant
Home-cooked Burkinabé dishes
Budget
Afternoon
St. Andrew Parish Saaba and rural exploration
Continue to St. Andrew Parish Saaba, another community church serving rural populations. Walk through village areas observing traditional compound architecture, agricultural activities, and daily life. Interact with local farmers, perhaps visiting fields or livestock areas. The afternoon provides authentic cultural exchange and understanding of rural Burkina Faso beyond tourist sites, showing the reality for most of the country's population.
3-4 hours
$5-10
Evening
Head back to the capital for dinner at a restaurant serving regional specialties from different parts of Burkina Faso
Where to Stay Tonight
Ouagadougou (Same accommodation)
Continue using your established base
Bring small gifts like pens or notebooks if visiting schools or families; always ask permission before photographing people
Day 9 Budget: $55-75
Explore the religious tapestry of Burkina Faso through visits to different worship communities and understanding interfaith harmony.
Morning
Église de Dapoya and Christian communities
Visit Église de Dapoya to observe another expression of Christianity in Burkina Faso. Each parish reflects its community's character while maintaining Catholic traditions. Spend time in the surrounding Dapoya neighborhood, observing how religious and community life intertwine. Visit a local school or community center if possible, learning about education and social services often provided by religious organizations.
2-3 hours
$5-8 (transport)
Lunch
A neighborhood restaurant in the Dapoya area
Local favorites like poulet bicyclette (free-range chicken)
Budget
Afternoon
Centre International d'Évangélisation - Tabernacle Bethel Israël
Visit this evangelical center representing the growing Pentecostal movement in West Africa. The vibrant worship style contrasts with traditional Catholic services, illustrating the diversity of Christian expression. Learn about how evangelical Christianity attracts urban youth and offers community support networks. The visit completes your understanding of Burkina Faso's religious landscape, from traditional Islam and Catholicism to newer evangelical movements.
2 hours
$3-5
Evening
Reflection and planning
Enjoy a quiet dinner while reviewing your experiences and preparing for the final days of adventure
Sunday services offer the most vibrant worship experiences; evangelical churches often welcome visitors and may have English translation available
Day 10 Budget: $45-65
Take a break from cultural immersion with recreational activities, enjoying leisure facilities and lighter exploration.
Morning
AQUA PARK-OUAGA
Spend a refreshing morning at this water park, a welcome respite from the heat and cultural intensity of previous days. The facility offers pools, slides, and recreational areas where you can relax and observe Burkinabé families at leisure. It's an opportunity to see local life in a recreational context and enjoy some downtime. The water park is particularly enjoyable during hot season and provides a different perspective on urban amenities.
3-4 hours
$10-15 (entrance and refreshments)
Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds; bring sunscreen and swimwear
Lunch
The water park's restaurant or nearby casual dining
International fast food and grilled items
Mid-range
Afternoon
CIE EDEN TBI and shopping
Visit CIE EDEN TBI and spend the afternoon in a more relaxed mode, perhaps shopping for final souvenirs, visiting craft cooperatives, or exploring artisan workshops you may have missed. This is a good time to purchase any larger items you've been considering, as you'll have time to pack them properly. Browse local bookstores for literature by Burkinabé authors or music shops for traditional and modern recordings.
2-3 hours
$15-30 (shopping)
Evening
Upscale dining experience
Treat yourself to a nicer restaurant featuring refined Burkinabé or French cuisine, celebrating your journey through the country
Where to Stay Tonight
Ouagadougou (Same accommodation)
Maintaining your established base
This is a good day to catch up on rest, laundry, and trip journaling while still having enjoyable activities
Day 11 Budget: $60-90
Embark on an ambitious day trip or overnight excursion to experience West African wildlife in one of the region's premier national parks.
Morning
Journey toward Pendjari National Park
Depart very early for the long journey toward Pendjari National Park, which straddles the Burkina Faso-Benin border. This ambitious excursion requires a full day of travel or preferably an overnight trip. The park protects elephants, lions, hippos, and numerous antelope species in pristine Sudanian savanna. Even the journey through rural northern Burkina Faso offers fascinating cultural encounters with communities rarely visited by tourists.
Full day travel
$80-120 (transport, guide, entrance)
This excursion requires advance planning; consider booking through a tour operator for logistics support
Lunch
Packed lunch or meal in a border town
Simple provisions
Budget
Afternoon
Pendjari National Park safari
If you've arranged an overnight trip, spend the afternoon on a safari drive through Pendjari National Park, one of West Africa's best wildlife reserves. Spot elephants, buffalo, various antelope species, and if fortunate, lions or leopards. The park's rivers host hippos and crocodiles. The landscape of acacia savanna and gallery forests differs dramatically from urban Burkina Faso. Alternatively, if doing a long day trip, begin the return journey in the afternoon.
3-4 hours or return travel
Included in morning cost
Evening
Either stay at a park lodge for an authentic bush experience or return to
Ouagadougou for a very late arrival
Where to Stay Tonight
Pendjari area or Ouagadougou (Park lodge or your Ouagadougou hotel)
Depends on whether you've planned an overnight wildlife experience or day trip
Pendjari is a significant journey from
Ouagadougou (8+ hours); consider whether the travel time fits your interests or substitute with more time in the capital
Day 12 Budget: $100-150
Return to
Ouagadougou for last explorations, final shopping, and favorite activities before your departure tomorrow.
Morning
Return from Pendjari or morning at leisure
If you stayed overnight at Pendjari, enjoy an early morning game drive before beginning the long return journey to
Ouagadougou. If you returned the previous evening, spend a relaxed morning revisiting your favorite
Ouagadougou spots, perhaps returning to Bangr Weogo Park or a café you particularly enjoyed. Use this time for any last-minute shopping or photography you want to complete.
3-4 hours
$10-20
Lunch
A favorite restaurant from earlier in your trip
Your preferred Burkinabé dishes
Mid-range
Afternoon
Final cultural visits and shopping
Make final visits to any sites you want to see again or missed earlier. Complete souvenir shopping at artisan cooperatives where purchases directly support local craftspeople. Visit a fabric market to buy traditional bogolan (mud cloth) or hand-printed textiles. Stop by a music shop for recordings of Burkinabé artists. Organize and pack your purchases carefully for tomorrow's departure.
3-4 hours
$20-40 (final purchases)
Evening
Farewell dinner and celebration
Enjoy a special final dinner at a restaurant with live music, celebrating your Burkina Faso adventure and the connections you've made
Where to Stay Tonight
Ouagadougou (Same accommodation, convenient to airport)
Final night before departure, with easy airport access
Confirm your flight and arrange airport transfer the night before; international flights often depart very early morning
Day 13 Budget: $70-95
Conclude your Burkina Faso journey with final reflections and departure, carrying memories of West African hospitality and culture.
Morning
Final preparations and airport transfer
Pack your final items, ensuring you have all souvenirs and documents secure. Check out of your accommodation and transfer to
Ouagadougou Airport. Arrive at least three hours before international flights, as airport procedures can be slow. Use any extra time to browse the small airport shops for last-minute items or enjoy a final coffee while reflecting on your journey through this fascinating country.
3-4 hours
$15-25 (transfer and airport expenses)
Arrange airport transfer the previous evening to ensure timely departure
Lunch
Airport café or meal on flight
Light fare
Mid-range
Afternoon
International departure
Complete check-in and security procedures for your international flight. Most international flights from
Ouagadougou depart in the afternoon or evening for European connections. As you depart, reflect on the rich cultural experiences, warm hospitality, and unique insights you've gained into West African life. Burkina Faso offers an authentic African experience that few travelers discover, making your journey all the more special.
Remainder of day
$0
Evening
In transit
Begin your journey home with memories of vibrant markets, stunning mosques, warm smiles, and the rhythms of Burkinabé life
Where to Stay Tonight
In transit (Flight)
Returning home with unforgettable experiences
Keep a small amount of CFA francs for airport purchases; exchange remaining currency before security as options are limited airside
Day 14 Budget: $40-60