Burkina Faso

Travel tips for Burkina Faso: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cash is essential. Cash is king in Burkina Faso, as card machines are extremely rare outside of major international hotels. Travelers must rely on CFA francs for daily expenses like hostels and transport, and should bring Euros or USD to exchange since local ATMs can be unreliable.

Try the food

  • Tô: A stiff, dough-like porridge made from millet, sorghum, or corn flour, traditionally eaten by dipping it into a savory okra or baobab leaf sauce.
  • Poulet Bicyclette: Flavorful, lean free-range chicken that is typically marinated and grilled or braised over an open fire.
  • Riz Gras: A rich, one-pot rice dish cooked in a flavorful broth of meat, tomatoes, onions, and vegetables.
  • Babenda: A traditional stew made from bitter greens, spinach, fermented locust beans, and dried fish or meat.

Say it in French

  • Hello: Bonjour
  • Thank you: Merci
  • Please: S'il vous plaît
  • Excuse me: Excusez-moi
  • How much is this?: C'est combien ?
  • The bill please: L'addition, s'il vous plaît
  • Yes / No: Oui / Non
  • Goodbye: Au revoir

Essentials

Plugs
Type C / Type E
Voltage
220V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Avoid — buy bottled
Emergency
17 (police), 18 (fire/ambulance), 112 (medical)
SIM tip
Purchase a local SIM card from Orange, Moov, or Telecel at official kiosks in Ouagadougou, and bring your passport for mandatory registration.

Etiquette

Always use your right hand for eating, greeting, and passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.

Airports in Burkina Faso