Burkina Faso, a West African country, has been gaining popularity as a tourist destination in recent years. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and friendly people, the country has a lot to offer to visitors. In this article, we will explore the top 10 most popular tourist cities in Burkina Faso and their attractions.
1. Ouagadougou
Ouagadougou, the capital city of Burkina Faso, is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a mix of modern and traditional African culture. Tourists can visit the National Museum of Burkina Faso to learn about the country’s history and culture, or take a stroll in the beautiful Bangr Weogo Park. The city also hosts the biennial Ouagadougou International Film Festival, which attracts film enthusiasts from all over the world.
2. Bobo-Dioulasso
Bobo-Dioulasso is the second-largest city in Burkina Faso and is known for its vibrant nightlife and music scene. Tourists can explore the city’s colonial architecture, visit the Maquis Moussa nightclub for a taste of local music, or take a trip to the nearby waterfalls of Karfiguela.
3. Koudougou
Koudougou is a small city in central Burkina Faso that is known for its lively markets and friendly people. Tourists can visit the Koudougou Grand Market to shop for local handicrafts or take a tour of the nearby Nazinga Game Ranch to see elephants, lions, and other wildlife.
4. Ouahigouya
Ouahigouya is a city in northern Burkina Faso that is famous for its traditional mud-brick architecture. Tourists can visit the Grande Mosquée, one of the largest mud-brick mosques in West Africa, or explore the nearby villages to see how locals have been building their homes for centuries.
5. Banfora
Banfora is a city in southwestern Burkina Faso that is known for its natural beauty. Tourists can visit the nearby Karfiguela Waterfalls, the Dômes de Fabédougou rock formations, or the Sindou Peaks for breathtaking views of the landscape.
6. Dédougou
Dédougou is a city in western Burkina Faso that is known for its traditional mask festivals. Tourists can visit the city during the annual Nuit des Masques (Night of the Masks) festival to see traditional dancers and performers wearing colorful masks and costumes.
7. Kaya
Kaya is a city in central Burkina Faso that is known for its rich cultural heritage. Tourists can visit the Musée de Manega to learn about the Mossi people, who are the largest ethnic group in Burkina Faso, or take a tour of the nearby stone ruins of Loropéni, which date back to the 11th century.
8. Fada N’gourma
Fada N’gourma is a city in eastern Burkina Faso that is known for its vibrant cultural festivals. Tourists can visit the city during the annual Festival International des Masques et des Arts (International Festival of Masks and Arts) to see traditional dancers, musicians, and performers from all over Africa.
9. Tenkodogo
Tenkodogo is a city in central Burkina Faso that is known for its historic architecture. Tourists can visit the nearby village of Tiébélé to see traditional Gourounsi homes, which are decorated with intricate geometric patterns.
10. Réo
Réo is a city in central Burkina Faso that is known for its agricultural economy. Tourists can visit the nearby village of Koumi to learn about traditional rice farming techniques or explore the Réserve de Nazinga, a game reserve that is home to elephants, lions, and other wildlife.
Statistic of Tourist Cities in Burkina Faso
According to the World Bank, Burkina Faso welcomed around 1 million tourists in 2018, generating about $200 million in revenue. The most popular tourist destinations in the country are Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso, and Banfora.
Attractions in Burkina Faso
Aside from the cities mentioned above, Burkina Faso also has a lot of other attractions that tourists can visit. Some of the must-see places in the country include the Ruins of Loropéni, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 11th century, and the W National Park, a transboundary park that is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and cheetahs.
Conclusion
Burkina Faso may not be as well-known as other African countries, but it has a lot to offer to tourists who are looking for a unique and authentic African experience. The top 10 most popular tourist cities in Burkina Faso offer a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty that is sure to captivate any traveler.
FAQs
- Is Burkina Faso safe for tourists?
While Burkina Faso is generally safe for tourists, travelers are advised to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
- What is the best time to visit Burkina Faso?
The best time to visit Burkina Faso is between November and February, when the weather is cooler and drier.
- What language do they speak in Burkina Faso?
The official language of Burkina Faso is French, but many people also speak one of the local languages, such as Mossi, Fulfulde, or Dioula.
- Do I need a visa to visit Burkina Faso?
Yes, most visitors to Burkina Faso need a visa, which can be obtained from the nearest Burkina Faso embassy or consulate.
- What is the currency of Burkina Faso?
The currency of Burkina Faso is the West African CFA franc.