Welcome to Burkina Faso 😊

Quick Facts About Burkina Faso

Money and Finances

The official currency of Burkina Faso is West African CFA Franc (XOF). Coins denominations include 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 and 500 francs. Notes denominations include 1000, 2000, 5000 and 10,000 francs.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in the main cities of Burkina Faso, but they can be rare in rural areas. It is advisable to carry cash when travelling outside of major cities.

Credit Cards

Credit card usage is not as widespread or easily available in Burkina Faso as it is in developed countries. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than AMEX, but it is still advisable to carry cash for most transactions.

Internet and Phones

Burkina Faso has relatively slow internet speeds, with average download speeds ranging from 2 to 10 Mbps and upload speeds of 1 to 5 Mbps. There is some government interference with internet use, particularly in regards to social media and messaging apps.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Major telco companies in Burkina Faso include Orange, Telmob, and Telecel. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is low, with prepaid plans starting at around 1,000 CFA francs (approximately 1.50 USD) per week. There may be some sim compatibility issues with some international phones.

Dialling to Burkina Faso

To call Burkina Faso from another country, dial the international access code (usually '00' or '+') followed by the country code for Burkina Faso (226), and then the local phone number. When dialling within Burkina Faso, use the full local area code (e.g. for Ouagadougou, dial 00226).

Transport Around Burkina Faso

Air Travel

Burkina Faso has an international airport, Ouagadougou International Airport, located in the capital city of Ouagadougou.

Train Travel

Unfortunately, Burkina Faso does not have any inter-city train network.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no metro system available in Burkina Faso.

Buses

There are bus services available in Burkina Faso, but they can be unreliable and uncomfortable. Prices and journey times may vary.

Rideshare

Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt are not available in Burkina Faso. However, there are some local rideshare companies available, but prices may vary.

Driving by Car

Driving in Burkina Faso is challenging due to poor road conditions and unpredictable driving habits of other drivers. The usual speed limit is 60 km/h in smaller towns, and 80 km/h on major roads. Burkina Faso uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Burkina Faso, tipping is not common. Locals often greet each other with a handshake, and it is considered polite to inquire about each other's well-being. When addressing elders or authority figures, Burkinabé often use titles such as 'maître' or 'chef'. Men and women typically dress conservatively, with women often covering their heads. It is generally polite to avoid direct eye contact with strangers, particularly elders or authority figures. However, Burkinabé are known for their friendliness and hospitality, so visitors are likely to be welcomed warmly.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Burkina Faso's healthcare system is still developing and lacks sufficient resources. Private healthcare is available, but it can be expensive and quality varies. Medical treatment can be expensive and payment is often required upfront. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical care costs in case of an emergency. The approximate cost for a visit to the doctor is around $20-$50.

COVID Situation

Burkina Faso has had a relatively low number of COVID-19 cases compared to other African countries, with a total of around 12,000 cases and 143 deaths as of October 2021. However, the healthcare system is still underdeveloped and may struggle to cope with a surge in cases.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a risk throughout Burkina Faso, especially during the rainy season from June to November. Other common health risks include dengue fever, yellow fever, and meningococcal meningitis. Food and waterborne diseases, such as hepatitis A and typhoid, are also prevalent. It is recommended to take necessary precautions, such as using insect repellent and drinking bottled water, to prevent these diseases.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Burkina Faso, alcohol consumption is legal for adults. However, public drunkenness and drinking alcohol in public places are strictly prohibited by law.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use, including the use of soft drugs such as cannabis, is strictly illegal in Burkina Faso. Penalties for drug-related offenses can be severe, including long prison sentences and hefty fines.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Burkina Faso does not have strict laws governing pre-marital relationships, but cultural and social norms may frown upon such relationships. It is advisable to exercise caution and discretion.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Burkina Faso and can result in prison sentences. The country also does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions.

Firearms / Guns

Burkina Faso has strict laws regulating firearms, and ownership of a firearm requires a license from the National Police. Unauthorized possession of firearms can lead to imprisonment or fines.