Verified Facts

Official NameBurkina Faso
CapitalOuagadougou
Population24.1 million
Area272,967 km² (105,393 sq mi)
LanguagesFrench
CurrencyWest African CFA franc (Fr)
TimezoneUTC
RegionAfrica / Western Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Economic Indicators

GDP per Capita (PPP)$2,896 (2024)
Inflation Rate4.2% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$72 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend43.8% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.3% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data

The cost of transportation in Burkina Faso can vary depending on the mode of transport, with a monthly transit pass costing around $10 USD and taxi start rates at approximately $1.50 USD.

Quick Facts

Monthly Transit Pass($10 USD)
Taxi Start Rate($1.50 USD)
Fuel (per liter)($1.20 USD)
Ride-Hailing Available(Yes — apps like Taxiyam, Allo Taxi)
CurrencyXOF

Getting Around Overview

Burkina Faso has a relatively underdeveloped transportation system, with most people relying on informal transportation modes such as minibuses and shared taxis to get around. The quality of public transit is generally poor, with limited coverage and frequent breakdowns. However, the government has been investing in improving the transportation infrastructure, including the construction of new roads and the expansion of public transportation services. In the capital city of Ouagadougou, there are several transportation options available, including buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services.

The majority of the population relies on walking or cycling as their primary mode of transportation, especially in rural areas where roads are often unpaved and inaccessible to vehicles. In urban areas, motorcycles are also a popular mode of transportation, with many people using them to commute to work or school. The lack of a well-developed public transportation system has led to a thriving informal transportation sector, with many private operators offering transportation services to the public.

Public Transportation

Transport TypeSingle Fare (USD)Monthly Pass (USD)Notes
City Bus$0.50$10Limited coverage, frequent breakdowns
Metro / SubwayN/AN/ANot available
Minibus / Shared Taxi$1-$2N/AExtensive network, but often overcrowded
Commuter TrainN/AN/ANot available

Taxi & Ride-Hailing

ServiceBase Fare (USD)Per km (USD)Typical City Ride (USD)Notes
Metered Taxi$1.50$0.50$5-$10Available in major cities
Ride-Hailing App$2$0.50$5-$10Taxiyam, Allo Taxi available
Airport TransferN/AN/A$20-$30To city center, depending on traffic

Fuel & Driving Costs

ItemCost (USD)Notes
Gasoline (per liter)$1.20
Diesel (per liter)$1.10
Car Rental (per day)$40-$60Economy car, depending on rental agency
Parking (per hour, city)$1-$2
Toll Roads (typical)$5-$10Not applicable, as there are no toll roads

Intercity & Long-Distance

Route TypeCost Range (USD)Notes
Intercity Bus (4-5 hrs)$10-$20Depending on route and operator
Domestic Flight$100-$200Typical route, depending on airline and time of booking
Train (long-distance)N/ANot available

Transport Tips

  • To save money on transportation, consider using public transportation or walking for short distances.
  • Use ride-hailing apps like Taxiyam or Allo Taxi to book taxis in advance and avoid haggling over prices.
  • Always negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi, as prices can vary depending on the driver and the route.
  • Be careful when using informal transportation modes, as they may not be regulated or insured.
  • Consider renting a car for long-distance travel, as it may be more convenient and cost-effective than taking public transportation.
  • Be aware of traffic rules and regulations, as they may be different from what you are used to in your home country.
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