Best time to travel to Burkina Faso
Choosing the right period for your trip to Burkina Faso can make all the difference. It's important to consider climatic elements, seasonal events and busy tourist periods to maximize your travel experience.
Location
Climate
January
19.4→33.3°C
0mm
6:29→18:01
February
21.8→36.1°C
0.03mm
6:26→18:13
March
25→38.9°C
0.03mm
6:11→18:17
April
27.1→39.3°C
0.35mm
5:53→18:19
May
27.3→37.7°C
0.79mm
5:41→18:24
June
25.5→34.8°C
1.61mm
5:40→18:33
July
23.7→31.4°C
4.09mm
5:47→18:35
August
22.9→29.8°C
7.18mm
5:53→18:26
September
23.2→31.1°C
3.69mm
5:54→18:07
October
24→33.8°C
1.17mm
5:55→17:48
November
22.2→35.7°C
0.01mm
6:03→17:39
December
20→33.4°C
0mm
6:18→17:45
19.4→33.3°C
21.8→36.1°C
25→38.9°C
27.1→39.3°C
27.3→37.7°C
25.5→34.8°C
23.7→31.4°C
22.9→29.8°C
23.2→31.1°C
24→33.8°C
22.2→35.7°C
20→33.4°C
Jan
6:29→18:01
Feb
6:26→18:13
Mar
6:11→18:17
Apr
5:53→18:19
May
5:41→18:24
Jun
5:40→18:33
Jul
5:47→18:35
Aug
5:53→18:26
Sep
5:54→18:07
Oct
5:55→17:48
Nov
6:03→17:39
Dec
6:18→17:45
Low and high season periods
Burkina Faso's climate can be divided into two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The The dry season generally runs from November to May.This is the best time to visit the country, with cooler temperatures between December and February. This is considered the best time to visit the country, as roads are more passable and the risk of water-borne diseases is lower. January and February also offer the opportunity to attend several major cultural festivals. Visit rainy season takes place between June and OctoberThe summer months are particularly rainy in August and September. During this period, some roads can be difficult to access and tourist infrastructures are sometimes less operational. However, this is also the time when the landscape is at its greenest and wildlife can be seen in all its splendour.Public holidays and service closures
It's important to know the public holidays in Burkina Faso, as they can lead to the closure of banks, stock exchanges and other services. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the main dates to bear in mind when making your travel arrangements:- January 1st - New Year's Day
- August 3 - Independence anniversary
- December 11 - National holiday
- Religious holidays such as Easter and Eid el-Fitr (variable depending on the calendar).
Major cultural events
Burkina Faso is known for its rich cultural heritage and numerous festivals and artistic events. Here are some of the most important not to be missed:Ouagadougou International Festival (FESPACO)
THE FESPACO is one of Africa's most prestigious film events, held every two years in Ouagadougou. Directors, actors and film professionals come from all over the continent to present their work and discuss the industry.Ouagadougou International Crafts Fair (SIAO)
This biennial event is one of the largest craft fairs in AfricaSIAO attracts craftspeople from all over the continent. Exhibitions, workshops, conferences and shows are organized as part of the SIAO, enabling visitors to discover the richness and diversity of African craftsmanship.Ouaga Jazz Festival
Jazz à Ouaga is an annual festival dedicated to jazz and improvised music. It brings together local and international artists for a series of concerts and masterclasses. The festival usually takes place at the end of April/beginning of May, and offers a varied program reflecting the cross-fertilization of different musical cultures.Gourounsi Cultural and Sports Festival (FESCGO)
The FESCGO is an annual event celebrating the cultural and sporting heritage of Burkina Faso's Centre-West region. On the program: sports competitions, fashion shows, traditional dances, music and local gastronomy. Usually held in January, the festival offers an authentic glimpse of Gourounsi culture.The Atypical Nights of Koudougou (NAK)
NAK are an annual music and art festival held in Koudougou, in west-central Burkina Faso. The festival features Burkinabé and international artists, as well as workshops, conferences and film screenings on social and political themes.Insurance
Your credit card does not cover you in all situations, that is whyIt is essential to take out insurance before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized, in some countries, medical costs are very high and you will then find yourself having to pay several thousand euros.
Our partner Chapka Insurance proposes the contract CAP ASSISTANCE 24/24 with many essential guarantees.
Flights
Your flight has been cancelled or delayed ?
You may be eligible for a compensation of up to €600 ! For this, lawyers are responsible for handling your claim with the airline and are only paid when the reimbursement is effective.
In conclusion, no financial risk for you, only advantages!
Burkina Faso is a rapidly growing country in West Africa. With a surface area of 274,200 km² and a population of over 20 million, it is now attracting worldwide attention for its economic and tourism potential.
Immigration statistics in Burkina Faso
According to data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Burkina Faso has seen a significant influx of migrants in recent years. In 2020, it is estimated that more than 31,000 people have immigrated to this country. There are many reasons for this immigration: study, work, family reunification or refugees fleeing conflict in their home countries. This is the migrant profile arriving in Burkina Faso:- Students : Burkina Faso has a number of universities and colleges that attract many foreign students every year. The main nationalities represented are Ivoriansthe Malians and Nigerians.
- Workers : Certain sectors, such as agriculture, mining and construction, are in high demand. As a result, many foreign workers come to Burkina Faso to work in these occupations.
- Family reunification : Many Burkinabés who have migrated abroad wish to bring their relatives to live with them. This includes spouses and minor children.
- Refugees : Burkina Faso also welcomes refugees fleeing conflict situations in their home countries. The main countries concerned are Mali, Côte d'Ivoire and the Central African Republic.
Most popular visas in Burkina Faso
To stay in Burkina Faso, you need a visa adapted to your travel plans. See the most popular visa categories :Tourist visa
The tourist visa is valid for a short stay, generally 30 days maximum. It enables visitors to discover the country and its cultural and natural treasures.Student Visa
Foreign students wishing to study in Burkina Faso must obtain a student visa. This type of visa is generally granted for the duration of the course, with the possibility of renewal.Work visa
Foreign workers wishing to work in Burkina Faso must be in possession of a work visa. This is issued on presentation of an employment contract and an employment authorization issued by the relevant authorities.Family reunion visa
Family members of foreign residents in Burkina Faso are eligible for family reunion visas. This type of visa is granted to spouses and minor children of the principal applicant.International tourism figures for Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso's ambition is to develop its tourism sector in order to attract more international visitors. However, international tourism figures show that this sector has yet to be exploited:- In 2019, the country welcomed around 150,000 tourists according to data from the Burkina Faso Ministry of Tourism.
- The majority of tourists come from neighboring countries, notably Mali, Côte d'Ivoire and Niger. European tourists account for around 20% of arrivals.
- The most visited tourist sites are the Nazinga nature reserve, the historic town of Bobo-Dioulasso and the capital Ouagadougou.
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