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A Week in the Heart of West Africa

Exploring Burkina Faso's Culture, History, and Natural Beauty

Trip Overview

This seven-day journey through Burkina Faso offers an authentic West African experience, blending the vibrant capital city of Ouagadougou with the historic charm of Bobo-Dioulasso and natural wonders. You'll explore bustling markets, sacred mosques, monuments to revolutionary heroes, and verdant parks while immersing yourself in Burkinabé culture. The itinerary balances cultural exploration with relaxation, featuring traditional music, local cuisine, and encounters with warm, welcoming communities. This moderate-paced adventure includes city exploration, historical sites, and natural reserves, providing a comprehensive introduction to this fascinating Sahel nation. Expect dusty roads, colorful fabrics, rhythmic drumming, and unforgettable sunsets over the savanna.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$70-120 per day
Best Seasons
November to February (dry season with cooler temperatures)
Ideal For
Cultural enthusiasts, History buffs, Off-the-beaten-path travelers, Photography enthusiasts, Adventure seekers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Welcome to Ouagadougou

Ouagadougou
Arrive in Burkina Faso's capital and ease into the local rhythm with a peaceful park visit and introduction to the city's vibrant culture.
Morning
Arrival and settling in
Arrive at Ouagadougou Airport and transfer to your accommodation. Take time to rest and acclimate to the warm Sahelian climate. Exchange currency and purchase a local SIM card for connectivity. Orient yourself with the neighborhood, meeting locals and getting your first taste of street life in the capital.
3-4 hours $20-30
Arrange airport transfer in advance through your accommodation
Lunch
A local maquis restaurant near your hotel
Traditional Burkinabé dishes like riz gras and poulet bicyclette Budget
Afternoon
Bangr Weogo Park exploration
Visit this urban nature reserve covering 265 hectares in the heart of Ouagadougou. Walk through preserved savanna landscape, spot wildlife including monkeys and various bird species, and learn about traditional medicinal plants. The park offers a peaceful introduction to Burkina Faso's natural environment and serves as an important green lung for the city.
2-3 hours $5-8
Evening
Sunset and traditional dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local outdoor restaurant with live traditional music, sampling tô with sauce and grilled meats

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Ouagadougou (Mid-range hotel near major attractions)

Central location provides easy access to museums, monuments, and restaurants for the next two days of city exploration

Ouagadougou locals are extremely friendly and many speak French. Don't hesitate to greet people with 'Bonjour' or learn basic Moore phrases like 'Né y kiba' (good morning)
Day 1 Budget: $80-100
2

Revolutionary History and Sacred Spaces

Ouagadougou
Dive deep into Burkina Faso's modern history and explore the city's religious diversity through its most important monuments and places of worship.
Morning
Mémorial Thomas Sankara visit
Pay respects at the memorial dedicated to Thomas Sankara, Burkina Faso's revolutionary leader who transformed the nation from 1983-1987. The site marks where he was assassinated and serves as a pilgrimage point for those inspired by his vision of African self-reliance, women's rights, and anti-imperialism. Reflect on his powerful legacy that continues to inspire across Africa and beyond.
1-2 hours $3-5
Lunch
A courtyard restaurant in the city center
West African fusion with fresh juices Mid-range
Afternoon
Religious architecture tour
Visit the Ouagadougou Cathedral with its distinctive modern architecture and the Ouagadougou Central Mosque, showcasing the peaceful coexistence of religions in Burkina Faso. Both structures represent important community gathering places and demonstrate beautiful architectural adaptations to the Sahelian climate. Observe the daily rhythms of worship and appreciate the craftsmanship in their construction.
2-3 hours $5-10
Dress modestly and visit the mosque outside of prayer times
Evening
Monument of National Heroes at sunset
Visit this striking monument honoring Burkina Faso's heroes, then enjoy dinner at a nearby terrace restaurant with city views

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Ouagadougou (Same hotel as Day 1)

Maintain your base for efficient city exploration without the hassle of changing accommodations

Photography restrictions may apply at some monuments. Always ask permission before taking photos, especially at the Sankara Memorial where visitors are often deeply emotional
Day 2 Budget: $75-95
3

Cultural Immersion and Artisan Markets

Ouagadougou
Explore Burkina Faso's rich cultural heritage through museums and vibrant markets filled with local crafts and textiles.
Morning
National Museum of Burkina Faso
Discover the country's cultural diversity through extensive collections of traditional masks, musical instruments, pottery, and royal regalia from various ethnic groups. The museum provides essential context for understanding Burkina Faso's pre-colonial kingdoms, colonial period, and independence. Exhibits showcase the artistry of Mossi, Bobo, Lobi, and other peoples who call this land home.
2-3 hours $5-8
Lunch
A garden restaurant with shaded seating
Grilled fish with attiéké and fresh salads Mid-range
Afternoon
Artisan market exploration
Spend the afternoon browsing Ouagadougou's famous craft markets where artisans sell bronze castings, leather goods, traditional fabrics, and wooden masks. Watch craftspeople at work, practice your bargaining skills, and select authentic souvenirs. The markets are sensory experiences filled with colors, sounds, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Burkinabé traders. Purchase beautiful Faso Dan Fani, the traditional handwoven cotton fabric.
3-4 hours $30-60
Bring cash and be prepared to negotiate prices respectfully
Evening
Live music and nightlife
Experience Ouagadougou's music scene at a live venue featuring traditional balafon music or modern Afrobeat, followed by late dinner

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Ouagadougou (Same hotel as previous nights)

Final night in the capital before traveling west tomorrow

Thursday through Saturday nights offer the best live music options. Ouagadougou is considered one of West Africa's cultural capitals, especially for film and music
Day 3 Budget: $90-130
4

Journey to Bobo-Dioulasso

Bobo-Dioulasso
Travel to Burkina Faso's second city, known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning Sudanese-style architecture.
Morning
Travel to Bobo-Dioulasso
Depart early for the scenic journey west to Bobo-Dioulasso, approximately 360 kilometers away. Travel by bus or private vehicle through changing landscapes from Sahel to Sudan savanna. Stop at roadside villages to observe rural life, purchase fresh mangoes or cashews from vendors, and stretch your legs. The journey offers glimpses of traditional compounds and agricultural practices.
5-6 hours $15-40
Book bus tickets one day in advance or arrange private transport through your hotel
Lunch
A roadside stop in a transit town
Simple grilled meat with bread and fresh fruit Budget
Afternoon
Arrival and old quarter exploration
Arrive in Bobo-Dioulasso and check into your accommodation. Take a walking tour of the old quarter with its characteristic banco (mud-brick) architecture and narrow lanes. The city has a distinctly different atmosphere from Ouagadougou—more laid-back and influenced by its position as a historic trading crossroads. Visit local compounds and observe traditional architecture.
2-3 hours $10-15
Evening
Relaxed evening in Bobo
Enjoy dinner at a terrace restaurant and experience the city's famous relaxed nightlife with cold beverages and conversation

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Bobo-Dioulasso (Guesthouse or small hotel near the old quarter)

Proximity to tomorrow's main attraction and immersion in the historic atmosphere of the city

Bobo-Dioulasso is known for being more relaxed than the capital. Embrace the slower pace and don't rush through activities
Day 4 Budget: $70-100
5

Architectural Wonders of Bobo

Bobo-Dioulasso
Marvel at one of West Africa's most beautiful mosques and explore the cultural treasures of this historic trading city.
Morning
Grande Mosquée de Bobo-Dioulasso
Visit this stunning example of Sudano-Sahelian architecture, built in 1893 entirely from mud bricks with distinctive wooden beams protruding from its walls. The mosque's organic architecture seems to grow from the earth itself, with its towers reaching skyward. Observe how the structure is maintained through annual replastering ceremonies. The surrounding neighborhood offers insights into traditional Islamic scholarship and community life in West Africa.
1-2 hours $5-10
Hire a local guide who can arrange access and provide historical context; visit outside prayer times
Lunch
A local eatery near the mosque
Traditional dégué (millet yogurt) and street food specialties Budget
Afternoon
Cultural exploration and pottery quarter
Explore Bobo-Dioulasso's famous pottery quarter where artisans continue traditional methods passed down through generations. Watch women shape clay pots, jars, and decorative pieces using techniques unchanged for centuries. Visit the old market area where traders sell everything from shea butter to traditional medicines. The afternoon provides opportunities for photography and authentic cultural interactions in one of Burkina Faso's most traditional cities.
3-4 hours $10-20
Evening
Traditional music performance
Seek out a cultural center or venue hosting traditional Bobo music and dance performances, followed by dinner at a popular local gathering spot

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Bobo-Dioulasso (Same accommodation as Day 4)

Convenient for final morning in Bobo before returning to Ouagadougou

The Grande Mosquée is most photogenic in early morning or late afternoon light. Respect local customs by dressing conservatively and asking permission before photographing people
Day 5 Budget: $65-90
6

Return to the Capital

Ouagadougou
Journey back to Ouagadougou with time to explore any missed attractions or simply relax and reflect on your journey.
Morning
Return journey to Ouagadougou
Travel back to the capital, departing early to maximize afternoon time in Ouagadougou. The return journey offers opportunities to see the landscape from a different perspective and perhaps stop at villages or viewpoints missed on the westward journey. Arrive in Ouagadougou by early afternoon and check into accommodation.
5-6 hours $15-40
Book return transport the day before departure
Lunch
A rest stop en route or upon arrival in Ouagadougou
Light meal with plenty of water for rehydration Budget
Afternoon
Leisure time and final explorations
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon with options based on your interests. Visit any attractions from earlier days you'd like to see again, explore neighborhoods you haven't yet discovered, or simply relax at your hotel. Consider visiting local galleries, taking a cooking class to learn Burkinabé cuisine, or shopping for last-minute souvenirs at craft cooperatives that support local artisans.
3-4 hours $10-30
Evening
Farewell dinner celebration
Choose an upscale restaurant for a special farewell dinner featuring refined Burkinabé cuisine, reflecting on your week's adventures

Where to Stay Tonight

Near the airport or city center (Comfortable hotel convenient for departure)

Strategic location for easy airport access on departure day while still allowing evening exploration

Use this day to purchase any remaining souvenirs and ensure you have small bills for airport tips and final purchases
Day 6 Budget: $80-110
7

Departure Day Reflections

Ouagadougou
Final morning in Burkina Faso with time for last-minute activities before your departure.
Morning
Final morning exploration
Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final walk through your neighborhood. Visit a local market one last time to soak in the atmosphere, purchase fresh mangoes for the journey, or simply sit at a café watching daily life unfold. Pack carefully, ensuring you have room for all souvenirs and that you're complying with customs regulations.
2-3 hours $10-20
Lunch
Light meal at hotel or near airport
Simple, familiar options before travel Budget
Afternoon
Airport departure
Transfer to Ouagadougou Airport with plenty of time before your flight. Allow extra time for check-in procedures and security. Reflect on your week experiencing Burkina Faso's rich culture, warm hospitality, and unique position as a crossroads of West African traditions. Depart with memories of revolutionary history, stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and the genuine warmth of Burkinabé people.
3-4 hours $10-20
Confirm flight details 24 hours before departure and arrange airport transfer in advance
Evening
Departure
International flight departure

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (N/A)

Departure day

Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights. Keep small CFA franc notes for final tips and purchases
Day 7 Budget: $50-70

Practical Information

Getting Around

Within Ouagadougou, use a combination of taxis (negotiate fares before departure, typically $2-5 per ride) and motorcycle taxis for shorter distances. For the journey to Bobo-Dioulasso, comfortable bus services operate daily, or arrange private transport through your hotel for more flexibility. Walking is pleasant in the cooler morning and evening hours for exploring neighborhoods. Consider hiring a driver with a vehicle for day trips, which provides comfort in the heat and flexibility in scheduling. Most attractions in both cities are accessible within 15-30 minutes by taxi.

Book Ahead

Book accommodation for all nights before arrival, especially during FESPACO film festival (February, odd years). Arrange airport transfers in advance. Reserve inter-city bus tickets one day ahead during peak travel periods. Consider booking a guide for the Grande Mosquée de Bobo-Dioulasso visit.

Packing Essentials

Lightweight, breathable clothing in natural fabrics; modest attire covering shoulders and knees; sun hat and strong sunscreen; comfortable walking shoes; sandals; reusable water bottle with filter; French phrasebook; cash in euros for exchange; headlamp for power outages; anti-malarial medication; basic first aid kit

Total Budget

$525-715 for seven days (excluding international flights and visa fees)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in local guesthouses and auberges ($10-25 per night), eat exclusively at local maquis and street food stalls ($3-8 per meal), use public transport and shared taxis throughout, skip guided tours in favor of self-exploration with a guidebook, shop at local markets for snacks, and focus on free attractions like walking tours and market visits. This reduces daily costs to $40-60 per day.

Luxury Upgrade

Book premium hotels with pools and air conditioning in both cities ($80-150 per night), hire a private driver and guide for the entire week, dine at upscale restaurants featuring refined African fusion cuisine, arrange private cultural performances, book spa treatments, take a scenic flight over the region, and include excursions to luxury safari lodges. This increases daily costs to $200-350 per day.

Family-Friendly

Add visits to AQUA PARK-OUAGA for swimming and water activities, break up museum visits with park time at Bangr Weogo Park where children can spot wildlife, choose family-friendly accommodations with larger rooms and pools, incorporate more frequent snack and rest breaks, hire a private vehicle for comfort during the Bobo-Dioulasso journey, select restaurants with diverse menus including familiar options, and reduce walking distances by using taxis more frequently between attractions.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Burkina Faso

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Burkina Faso

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Burkina Faso

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Burkina Faso

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Burkina Faso

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