Things to Do in Burkina Faso in August

August Weather in Burkina Faso

25°C (77°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Peak green season with lush landscapes - August rains transform the Sahel into verdant grasslands, perfect for photography at Banfora Cascades and Sindou Peaks
Coolest temperatures of the rainy season at 20-25°C (68-77°F) make daytime exploration comfortable, unlike the scorching 40°C+ (104°F+) dry season heat
Rice harvest festivals begin in rural areas - witness traditional ceremonies in villages around Bobo-Dioulasso where communities celebrate with balafon music and millet beer
Reduced dust and clearer air quality compared to Harmattan season, offering better visibility for wildlife viewing at Ranch de Nazinga and clearer stargazing opportunities

Considerations

Daily afternoon thunderstorms from 2-5pm can disrupt outdoor activities - roads become muddy and some rural attractions temporarily inaccessible
Higher malaria risk during rainy season requires strict prevention measures and limits evening outdoor activities in certain areas
Some remote roads become impassable, particularly routes to northern parks like Arly National Park, restricting travel options

Best Activities in August

Banfora Waterfalls Photography Tours

August rains create the most dramatic water flow at Karfiguela Falls, dropping 150m (492ft) through volcanic rock formations. Morning visits (7-11am) offer perfect lighting before afternoon storms. The surrounding sugar cane plantations are emerald green, creating stunning contrast photos impossible during dry season.

Booking Tip: Book through local guides in Banfora town for 15,000-25,000 CFA ($25-42) day trips. Best accessed via 4WD vehicles during rainy season. Book 2-3 days ahead and confirm road conditions. See current tour options in booking section below.

Sindou Peaks Rock Formation Climbing

The iconic sandstone needles are surrounded by seasonal streams in August, creating natural pools for cooling off after climbing. Temperatures of 20-25°C (68-77°F) make this ideal climbing weather compared to 40°C+ (104°F+) dry season heat. Morning climbs avoid afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Local climbing guides charge 10,000-20,000 CFA ($17-34) for half-day excursions. Essential to have guide for navigation during rainy season. Book through Banfora tourism office or see current options in booking section below.

Bobo-Dioulasso Cultural Walking Tours

August brings traditional rice blessing ceremonies and the start of harvest season celebrations. The old quarter's mud-brick architecture is best viewed during cooler, humid weather. Grand Mosque visits are comfortable in lower temperatures, and artisan workshops showcase seasonal crafts made from fresh materials.

Booking Tip: Licensed cultural guides available through tourism office for 8,000-15,000 CFA ($13-25) for 3-4 hour tours. Morning tours (8am-12pm) avoid afternoon rains. Book day ahead during August. See current cultural tour options in booking section below.

Ranch de Nazinga Wildlife Viewing

August's green vegetation attracts animals to water sources, making wildlife spotting more predictable. Elephants, antelopes, and warthogs gather at seasonal pools created by rains. Cooler temperatures mean animals are active longer into the morning (until 11am vs 9am in hot season).

Booking Tip: Reserve accommodation and guide packages 2-3 weeks ahead for 40,000-60,000 CFA ($67-100) per day including meals and guide. 4WD transport essential during rains. Confirm accessibility before booking. See current wildlife tour packages in booking section below.

Ouagadougou Market and Artisan District Tours

August brings seasonal vegetables, fresh millet, and harvest-related crafts to markets. The humid weather is perfect for exploring covered markets like Grand Marché Central. Artisan quarters showcase traditional metalwork and weaving, with craftsmen working comfortably in cooler indoor workshops.

Booking Tip: Half-day guided market tours cost 12,000-18,000 CFA ($20-30). Best done 9am-1pm before afternoon storms. Book through hotels or tourism office day before. See current city tour options in booking section below.

Traditional Village Homestay Experiences

August village life revolves around rice and millet harvesting - visitors can participate in traditional farming, food preparation, and evening storytelling sessions. Cooler evenings make outdoor community gatherings comfortable. This is when traditional grain-based dishes and fermented beverages are at their freshest.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local NGOs or tourism cooperatives for 20,000-35,000 CFA ($34-59) per night including meals and activities. Book 1-2 weeks ahead as rainy season limits village access. See current community-based tourism options in booking section below.

August Events & Festivals

Late August

Rice Harvest Blessing Ceremonies

Villages throughout the southwest perform traditional ceremonies to bless the rice harvest. Features traditional balafon orchestras, ancestral prayers, and communal feasting with fresh millet beer. Most authentic cultural experience available to respectful visitors.

Throughout August

Fête de l'Indépendance Preparations

August sees intensive rehearsals for Independence Day celebrations in major cities. Traditional dance groups, military bands, and cultural associations practice daily in public spaces, offering glimpses of upcoming festivities.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry hiking pants - essential for muddy conditions and 70% humidity, unlike cotton which stays wet for hours

Waterproof hiking boots with good tread - roads become slippery red clay, and you'll encounter 5cm (2 inch) deep puddles regularly

Lightweight rain poncho plus compact umbrella - afternoon storms arrive suddenly and last 45-90 minutes with heavy downpours

SPF 50+ sunscreen - despite clouds, UV index reaches 8 and reflection off wet surfaces intensifies exposure

Insect repellent with 30%+ DEET - malaria risk peaks during rainy season, especially at dawn and dusk

Moisture-wicking synthetic shirts - 70% humidity makes cotton feel permanently damp and uncomfortable

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - sudden storms and river crossings can damage electronics

Antifungal foot powder - humid conditions and wet boots create perfect environment for foot infections

Quick-dry towel and extra socks - regular towels won't dry in 70% humidity, pack 2-3 pairs socks daily

Malaria prophylaxis and first aid kit - medical facilities are limited in rural areas where most attractions are located

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodation with solid roofing - many budget places have corrugated metal roofs that create thunderous noise during night storms, making sleep impossible

Morning activities (7-11am) are optimal - locals schedule important activities early to avoid afternoon storms, and you'll have attractions to yourself

Carry 1,000 CFA notes for road checkpoints - police are more active during rainy season checking vehicle permits, small bills expedite interactions

Learn basic Mooré greetings for village visits - 'A yuuré' (good morning) and 'Wend na koom' (thank you) show respect during harvest season cultural exchanges

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 2pm - afternoon thunderstorms are predictable and can strand you in remote locations with flooded roads

Wearing sandals for any walking - wet clay soil sticks like cement and creates dangerous slipping hazards, closed shoes are essential

Underestimating malaria prevention - many travelers skip prophylaxis thinking short trips are safe, but August has highest transmission rates