Verified Facts
To get around in Burkina Faso, you can use a combination of domestic flights, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services, as well as drive yourself with a rental car or motorcycle, but be prepared for challenging road conditions and limited transportation infrastructure.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Burkina Faso has several international airports, with the main one being Ouagadougou Airport (OUA), which receives flights from major hubs in West Africa, Europe, and North Africa. You can fly directly to Ouagadougou from cities like Paris, Brussels, and Dakar, among others. Overland entry points are also available, with major borders connecting to neighboring countries like Mali, Niger, Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. If you're coming from a neighboring country, you can take a bus or taxi from the border to Ouagadougou or other major cities.
The main overland entry points are at the borders with Mali, Niger, and Ghana, where you can find bus and taxi services to take you to your destination. Alternatively, you can take a flight from a major hub in West Africa to Ouagadougou Airport, which is the main entry point for international visitors. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to your hotel or destination, with prices starting from around $10 for a taxi ride to the city center.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights in Burkina Faso are limited, with only a few airlines operating within the country. The main domestic airline is Air Burkina, which offers flights from Ouagadougou to other major cities like Bobo-Dioulasso and Ouahigouya. You can book flights online or through a local travel agent, with prices starting from around $100 for a one-way ticket. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and get the best prices.
Trains & Rail
Burkina Faso does not have a rail network, so train travel is not an option. The country's transportation infrastructure is mostly focused on road and air travel, with buses and taxis being the main modes of transportation for both domestic and international travel.
Buses & Coaches
Intercity bus companies like STMB (Société des Transport de Mossi du Burkina) and Rakieta operate in Burkina Faso, offering bus services between major cities like Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso, and Ouahigouya. The quality of buses varies, with some companies offering more comfortable and modern vehicles than others. Prices start from around $10 for a one-way ticket, depending on the distance and quality of the bus. You can book tickets at the bus station or through a local travel agent.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso | $0.50-$1 | Limited routes and frequencies |
| Taxi | everywhere | $1-$5/km | Negotiate the price before you start your journey |
| Ride-Hailing | Ouagadougou | $2-$5 | Limited availability and high prices |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso | $1-$2 | Cheap and convenient, but not always safe |
| Motorcycle Taxi | everywhere | $1-$2 | Fast and convenient, but not always safe |
Driving
- To drive in Burkina Faso, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country, as well as a car rental or motorcycle rental agreement if you're renting a vehicle.
- Road conditions in Burkina Faso are generally poor, with many roads being unpaved and in disrepair, especially during the rainy season.
- Fuel costs are relatively high, with prices starting from around $1.50 per liter for gasoline.
- Car rental companies like Europcar and Avis operate in Ouagadougou, offering a range of vehicles from economy cars to 4x4 trucks.
- When driving in Burkina Faso, be aware of hazards like potholes, pedestrians, and animals on the road, as well as the risk of carjacking and banditry, especially at night.
- It's recommended to drive with a GPS device or a local guide to help navigate the roads and avoid any potential dangers.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams like overcharging for taxi rides or fake travel agencies, and always negotiate the price before you start your journey.
- Use local currency (XOF) for transactions, and have some cash on hand, as not all businesses accept credit cards.
- Download maps.me or Google Maps on your smartphone to help navigate the roads and find your way around.
- Avoid traveling at night, especially by road, due to the risk of banditry and carjacking.
- Use a reputable taxi company or ride-hailing service to ensure your safety, and always check the vehicle's condition before you start your journey.
- Be respectful of local customs and traffic laws, and avoid driving or traveling during peak hours or in areas with high crime rates.
- Consider hiring a local guide or driver to help you navigate the roads and avoid any potential dangers, especially if you're not familiar with the area.