Africa
Burkina Faso
The whole country is advised against: jihadist groups control large areas, kidnappings occur, and the military government restricts movement. There is no leisure tourism and no embassy support.
- US travel advisoryLevel 4Do not travelDetails
- Visa19 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyXOFUS$1 ≈ CFA582.98Details
- Price level37%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English2/5Limited
- PlugsType C, E220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency17Police 17 · Fire 18
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or filtered water.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedHostility is high and the 2025 law raised legal risk; no public scene.Details
- DrivingOn the rightDo not self-drive. Foreign licences are accepted on paper, but roads have checkpoints, IEDs and night curfews in places.
When to visit Burkina Faso
November to February is driest and coolest. March-May is very hot; rains from June to September.
Good to know
Entry
- Visa is required for most nationalities and must be obtained before arrival; processing can be slow.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.
- Flights into Ouagadougou are limited; land borders can close without notice.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing military sites, soldiers or checkpoints can lead to detention.
- Criticising the government publicly or online can get you arrested.
- A 2025 law criminalises same-sex relations.
Etiquette
- Greet people properly before asking anything.
- Dress modestly, especially outside Ouagadougou.
Tipping
Small tips are appreciated; 5-10% in restaurants.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.