Things To Do
in Ouagadougou
Ouagadougou, the capital city of Burkina Faso, is a vibrant urban center known for its rich cultural heritage and friendly atmosphere. The city is a hub for arts and crafts, showcasing traditional music, dance, and festivals that reflect the diverse ethnic groups of the country. Visitors can explore a range of markets, museums, and parks that highlight both the historical and contemporary aspects of Burkinabé life.
With its warm climate and welcoming locals, Ouagadougou offers a unique experience in West Africa.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the National Museum of Burkina Faso, where you can learn about the country’s history and culture through various exhibits.
Visit the Ouagadougou Central Market (Marché de Ouagadougou) for shopping and to experience local life. Don't miss the chance to taste some street food.
Enjoy a dinner at Restaurant Le Verdoyant, known for its garden setting and diverse menu featuring local and international dishes.
Take a stroll in the Bangr-Weoogo Park, a beautiful green space that offers walking trails and a chance to see local wildlife.
Visit the Place des Nations Unies, a public square that often hosts events and performances. You can also relax at a nearby café.
Explore the nightlife at Le Djembé, a popular spot for live music and dancing to traditional and contemporary African beats.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1.50 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
- Affordable cost of living.
- Vibrant markets and delicious street food.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Hot and humid weather during the rainy season.
- Potential language barrier as French is the primary language.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Oui" - Yes
- "Non" - No
Places to Visit in Ouagadougou
Visit one of these nice places.
A vibrant public square, perfect for capturing the essence of daily life in Ouagadougou.
The museum's architecture and surrounding gardens provide beautiful backdrops for photography.
A green oasis in the city, ideal for nature photography and wildlife shots.
Food in Ouagadougou
Ouagadougou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty rice dish cooked with vegetables and meat, seasoned with local spices.
Must-Try!
A staple food made from millet or sorghum, often served with a sauce or soup.
Skewered and grilled meat, typically served with a spicy sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and delicious street food.
Common throughout the city, offering a variety of snacks such as fried plantains and grilled meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common, often followed by a friendly exchange of pleasantries.
Modest dressing is appreciated, especially in rural areas; casual attire is acceptable in urban settings.
Elders are highly respected in the culture, and it's important to treat them with courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Ouagadougou
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.
Cash is king in Ouagadougou; while credit cards are accepted in some places, many transactions are done in West African CFA francs.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Heavy rains may occur, causing some flooding; however, the landscape becomes lush and vibrant.
Cool, dry winds from the Sahara can bring lower temperatures and dusty conditions.
Periods between seasons can be unpredictable, so it's best to prepare for both rain and sun.
Ouagadougou at Night
Hiking in Ouagadougou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 100 km from Ouagadougou, this park offers hiking trails amidst diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
A scenic area not far from the city, known for its beautiful trails and opportunities to see local flora and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Ouagadougou by plane.
The main airport serving the city, offering both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Burkina Faso, primarily inhabiting the central region and known for their rich cultural traditions.
Another significant ethnic group, mainly located in the southwestern part of the country, known for their unique language and customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Burkina Faso, with numerous local teams and a passionate fan base.
Gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with various local leagues and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ouagadougou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be modified to accommodate vegetarian diets, with a variety of vegetable-based meals available.
Halal options are generally available, especially in larger restaurants and markets.