What to see in Burkina Faso: 10 must-sees
Travel alert
Jihadist insurgency: travel advised against
Discover what to see in Burkina Faso: 10 must-see destinations, from Ruins of Loropéni to W-Arly-Pendjari Complex. Predominantly UNESCO heritage and natural; each entry includes the best time to visit and the link to its official source.
UNESCO Heritage(3)
Peer at the 2-meter-thick stone walls protecting 10 hectares of history in Loropéni. Explore this fortified village that controlled the gold trade to the Atlantic between the 11th and 15th centuries. Spot the megalithic tombs scattered among the walls and mentally reconstruct the bustle of the merchants who passed through here 1,000 years ago. UNESCO inscribed it as a World Heritage Site as a testament to a vanished civilization.
Cross the 10,000 km² of savanna and forest that Benin, Burkina Faso and Niger share at the bend of the Niger River, where elephants, lions, hippos and 300 bird species move between riverine forests and open plains. Head out on a guided safari, camp beside the river and watch the wildlife from natural viewpoints with no crowds around. From Tanguiéta you can reach this World Heritage Site, an exceptional testament to a vanished cultural tradition and to the wildlife of the Sahel.
Behold the 18 iron-smelting sites dating from the 8th century AD, where the ancient inhabitants of Burkina Faso mastered the most advanced metallurgy in West Africa. Walk among the altars of the smelting goddesses, the furnaces and the burial mounds that guard the secret of iron. This ensemble, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is an exceptional testament to a vanished cultural tradition and civilization.
Natural(2)
Descend the jungle trails to the natural pools where water plunges 15 meters over sandstone rocks, surrounded by tropical vegetation in the heart of Banfora. Swim in the cool backwaters and gaze from there at the Sindou hill, its stone spires rising like giant fingers above the plain. Walk the waterfall complex on foot, watch birds among the foliage and use the shade of the trees to rest between one cascade and the next.
Admire the 50-meter sandstone spires that the wind has carved into towers, arches and ghost towns as you follow the trails of Sindou. Climb to the summit to see the valley open at your feet and step into the caves hidden among the rocks. The stone labyrinth also shelters wildlife and plants typical of this part of Burkina Faso, so bring sturdy footwear, water and time to wander unhurried among the formations.
City(2)
Stop by the Kiéné-Kiéné neighborhood, where earthen houses with palm-thatch roofs create a maze of alleys. Visit the central market, the colonial railway station and the Houet district, and discover why Bobo is the cultural capital of Burkina Faso. Pause in this city where architecture, markets and daily life create a vibrant atmosphere. Stroll its streets, admire its monuments and discover the local culture. The city blends tradition and modernity in a fascinating cultural mosaic.
Explore Burkina Faso's capital through the streets linking the Place de la République to the Central Mosque, and haggle for fabrics, spices, and utensils at the Grand Market of Ouagadougou. Visit the National Museum of Burkina Faso to see masks and sculptures from the country's peoples, browse the craft market for handmade bronze and woodwork, and in the afternoon catch a screening or concert at the French Cultural Center, a hub of the local art scene.
Intangible Heritage(1)
Admire the facades hand-painted by Kassena women with geometric motifs in vibrant colors, an art dating back to the 15th century. Visit the royal court, the granaries and the decorated clay houses, and see how this living art is passed down from generation to generation. Experience a tradition where culture, art and customs create a living legacy handed down through the generations. Take part, learn and feel the connection with history.
Religious(1)
Step inside the largest mud mosque in West Africa, built in 1893 with 140 palm trunks that protrude from the adobe walls. Admire the mihrab decorated with geometric motifs, listen to the adhan from the courtyard and take in the blend of Mandé architecture and Islam that characterizes this city. Visit this sacred temple where spirituality, architecture and history create a space of peace and reflection. Admire the architectural details and feel the connection with the transcendent.
Museum(1)
Explore the open-air museum where 60 granite sculptures carved by artists from Africa, Asia, and Europe are spread across 10 hectares of savanna. Admire works by Bwa, Mossi, and Lobi artists, take in the valley views, and discover how contemporary sculpture dialogues with tradition. Wander the museum where artifacts, exhibits, and history create a journey through time. Discover unique collections, learn about local culture, and broaden your knowledge.
New destinations and itineraries, by email
Subscribe to receive newly published destinations and itineraries, plus seasonal travel ideas. One email, only when there is news.
Anything to correct or add about Burkina Faso?
If you have spotted incorrect or outdated information, or want to suggest additional details about destinations in Burkina Faso, leave us your comment. We review every one personally.