Burkina Faso
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Burkina Faso's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Upon arrival at Thomas Sankara International Airport, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ouagadougou. After settling into your hotel, enjoy a traditional Burkinabé breakfast of porridge and bread. A visit to the nearby Boulmiougou market will give you a taste of local life and crafts.
Explore the National Museum of Burkina Faso to learn about the rich history and culture of the country. Wander through the grounds and admire the traditional architecture and artifacts on display. Lunch can be enjoyed at a local eatery featuring delicious local dishes such as riz gras.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll around Place de la Nation, a popular gathering spot for locals. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant serving grilled fish or chicken with spicy sauce. Cap off your evening with a night market visit, where you can find handicrafts, textiles, and local snacks.
Travel to Bobo-Dioulasso, the cultural heart of Burkina Faso, after breakfast. As you drive through scenic landscapes, you’ll get a sense of the rural life and the beauty of the countryside. Once you arrive, check into a local guesthouse and get ready to explore.
Visit the famous Grand Mosque, a stunning example of Sudano-Sahelian architecture. Spend some time exploring the lively streets filled with artisans, cafes, and shops selling traditional crafts. Break for lunch at a local restaurant, savoring specialties like tô and sauce.
As evening approaches, enjoy a drink at one of the rooftop bars that overlook the city. Savor the tranquility as night falls, filled with the sounds of laughter and local music. Join a cultural performance to experience traditional music and dance, connecting you further with the local community.
Set out early for Banfora, known for its stunning landscapes and natural attractions. Begin your adventure with a visit to the cascading waterfalls of Les Cascades de Karfiguéla, where the sound of flowing water creates a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy a picnic breakfast by the beautiful waters, surrounded by lush greenery.
Explore the nearby Lake Tengrela, a picturesque spot famous for its hippos. You can take a boat ride and experience close encounters with these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. For lunch, sample some grilled fish from local vendors by the lake.
Return to Banfora and take in the beautiful sunset over the landscapes. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that serves a mix of traditional and international cuisine. This evening is perfect for relaxing at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Spend the morning trekking to the Zongo Falls, which involves a scenic hike through the forest. The brilliant sound of nature surrounds you as you approach the falls, which offer fantastic vistas and photographic opportunities. Take a break to enjoy the refreshing spray from the falls while enjoying a light snack.
Spend some time at the falls, where you can swim in the natural pools or simply relax on the banks. After a delicious picnic lunch, explore the surrounding area for more nature trails or visit a local village to engage with the residents. Try your hand at traditional crafts while learning about their customs and lifestyle.
Head back to Banfora for a relaxed evening full of local flavors. Sample some delicious local BBQ and enjoy a drink while mingling with fellow travelers. After dinner, unwind and relish the peaceful atmosphere, possibly catching some local storytelling or music.
Travel towards the Sahel region, arriving at Kaya, a bustling town that serves as a gateway. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, with fresh bread and rich coffee fueling your day of exploration. Visit the local markets for a glimpse of life in this unique environment characterized by a mix of cultures.
Engage with the local communities and learn about life in the Sahel. Participate in community projects or local workshops that teach crafts or skills. After lunch, explore the history of the region by visiting local historical sites that date back to the ancient empires.
Return to your accommodations for dinner, featuring traditional dishes from the Sahel region. Tonight, take part in a cultural evening filled with stories told by local elders, giving insight into the ancient traditions of Burkina Faso. Let the warmth of hospitality and music fill the air as you engage with the culture of the Sahel.
Begin your day with a visit to the Arboretum of the National Parks, which is a hidden gem filled with diverse flora and fauna. Take a guided tour to learn about the unique ecosystems and the important role they play in conservation. Enjoy breakfast in this serene environment, surrounded by nature.
Delve deeper into the beauty of the park with wildlife spotting, including various species of birds and other wildlife. After a packed lunch in the park, take advantage of the peaceful surroundings for some birdwatching. The afternoon can also be spent on the trails, capturing the beauty of the landscape.
After a satisfying day in nature, return to the nearby town for dinner at a welcoming local restaurant. Enjoy a meal accompanied by the sounds of local musicians, creating an unforgettable ambiance. Reflect on the day's safari experience, perhaps sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Travel to Ouahigouya, the region known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. After breakfast, visit local workshops where artisans create handwoven textiles or traditional pottery, understanding the depth of their craft. This connection to the community will set the tone for a day of cultural immersion.
Attend a cultural festival if your visit coincides with one, where you can witness music, dance, and art that define the local culture. Participate in traditional games and learn historical stories shared by the locals. Lunch will be full of flavors, featuring a variety of dishes endemic to the region.
Savor your final night in Burkina Faso with a grand dinner that celebrates the culinary heritage of the region. Join in the revelry at a local gathering featuring dance and music performances that convey stories of the country. Experience the warm hospitality as communities come together, offering you unforgettable memories.
Spend your last morning in Ouagadougou with a peaceful breakfast at your hotel, reminiscing about the highlights of your trip. If time allows, visit a few final artisan shops for souvenirs, picking up the perfect mementos to remind you of your journey. Your final stop can be a visit to a local café, enjoying a relaxed cup of coffee.
Complete any last-minute explorations before checking out of your hotel and heading to the airport. Reflect on the cultural richness, natural beauty, and the warmth of the Burkinabé people as you make your way to Thomas Sankara International Airport. Grab a light lunch at the airport café, continuing to soak in the atmosphere as you wait for your flight.
As your journey in Burkina Faso comes to an end, board your flight filled with unforgettable memories and connections made. The diverse experiences, from bustling markets to tranquil landscapes, will travel with you. Cherish the vibrant culture, the stories, and the friendships that will remain as part of your life.