What Tourists Must Know About Burkina Faso
Political Climate, Travel Tips And Essential Information
May 25, 2009
Before visiting any foreign country, especially in Africa, visitors should acquaint themselves with the political situation and other risks involved in travelling in the country. Burkina Faso is no different and although the political situation in the host country might be stable, political unrest in neighboring countries might spill over.
Where Is Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso, formerly known as Upper Volta, is a 274 200 km²country in West Africa (13 00N, 2 00W) and bordered by Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Mali, Togo and Nigeria. The landlocked country, which is slightly bigger than Colorado, consists of mostly flat plains with hills in the west and southeast. The elevation difference between the highest and lowest point in the country is a mere 549 meters.
Ouagadougou is the capital and lies in the middle of Burkina Faso, resembling an oversized country town rather than a capital. The colonial looking center is relatively small and visitors can explore it on foot. Most of the accommodation and entertainment are situated near the center of the town, enabling visitors to explore the attractions offered.
A Brief Overview of The Political Climate In Burkina Faso
According to the World Factbook of the CIA, Burkina Faso in West Africa, gained independence from France in 1960. After several military coups, the first multiparty elections took place during the early 1990's. Currently the political climate is stable, although conflict in neighboring Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) at times threatens to spill over. Burkina Faso rates as a low risk country for terrorist threats and most visits to the country are trouble free.
How Safe Is It To Travel In Burkina Faso
While the political situation does not give rise to concern, criminal activity is increasing and travelers should be aware of the dangers. A few safety rules to keep tourists out of trouble are:
- Be on the lookout for pickpockets and thieves while walking in the streets. Rather carry backpacks on the front of the body than the rear and be vigilant when walking thought crowded areas especially around the UN Circle and former Central Market in Ouagadougou. Do not carry valuables in plain sight.
- Avoid traveling between towns at night as incidents of armed bandits stopping vehicles, even public buses, to rob the occupants have been reported. The Foreign & Commonwealth Office in the UK strongly discourages traveling by road from Ouagadougou to Po due to the rise in banditry.
- Stay on clearly marked roads and avoid minor roads in remote areas unless driving in convoy as road conditions may be poor especially during the rainy season.
Essential Information for Tourists Visiting Burkina Faso
- Conditions in local prisons are harsh and law enforcement is strict. Should a visitor to Burkina Faso break the local laws, they will be dealt with severely.
- Nobody may take photographs of military or other government installations.
- Homosexuality is illegal and punishable.
- Visitors should always carry their identification with them, whether it is a passport or residence permit, to produce on request.
- Tourists from the United Kingdom may drive on roads in Burkina Faso with a UK driving license.
- Burkina Faso has an annual outbreak of meningitis from January to May and malaria and other tropical and water-borne diseases are common.
- Visitors should drink bottled or boiled drinking water as safe drinking water is scarce.
Medical facilities in Burkina Faso are limited and visitors should ensure proper medical and health insurance while visiting.
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