Things to Do in Ouagadougou

About Ouagadougou

In the heart of West Africa, Ouagadougou pulses with an infectious rhythm that captures the soul of Burkina Faso. Known affectionately as 'Ouaga' by locals, this busy capital weaves together ancient traditions and contemporary ambitions beneath sprawling baobab trees and endless Sahelian skies. The city awakens with the melodic call to prayer and the gentle hum of mopeds navigating red-earth streets, where colorful fabrics flutter from market stalls and the aroma of grilled meat mingles with incense. Here, art isn't confined to galleries—it spills onto streets through elaborate murals, resonates in impromptu drum circles, and comes alive during the world-renowned FESPACO film festival. Ouagadougou's true magic lies in its people, whose warmth and hospitality transform every encounter into a genuine connection. Whether sharing tea with strangers-turned-friends or dancing to live djembe rhythms under starlit skies, visitors discover a city where every sunset paints the horizon in brilliant oranges and purples, reminding you that some of life's most profound experiences happen less crowded.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Navigate Ouagadougou using green taxis (negotiate fares beforehand—expect 500-1500 CFA for city rides) or rent a moped for ultimate flexibility. Avoid walking alone after dark and always carry small bills for transport. Download offline maps as GPS can be unreliable.

Money: Bring euros for the best exchange rates to West African CFA francs. ATMs are limited and often empty—withdraw cash at major banks like Ecobank or UBA. Always carry cash as card payments are rarely accepted outside upscale hotels.

Cultural Respect: Greet everyone with 'Bonjour' and a handshake—rushing past is considered rude. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Ask permission before photographing people and expect to offer a small tip. Remove shoes when entering homes and always use your right hand for eating.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice cubes. Enjoy street food from busy stalls with high turnover—try riz gras and brochettes from vendors with long local queues. Avoid raw vegetables unless you can peel them yourself. Carry hand sanitizer always.

When to Visit

Ouagadougou's climate divides into three distinct seasons, each offering unique advantages. The cool, dry season (November-February) provides ideal conditions with temperatures ranging 20-30°C (68-86°F) and zero rainfall—perfect for exploring markets and outdoor activities. This peak season sees accommodation prices increase 40-60%, especially during FESPACO film festival (late February, odd years) when the city buzzes with international energy. The hot, dry season (March-May) brings scorching temperatures up to 42°C (108°F) but offers 30-40% lower prices and authentic local experiences as tourism drops significantly. The rainy season (June-October) transforms the landscape into lush green vistas with afternoon showers totaling 600-900mm annually. Temperatures moderate to 25-35°C (77-95°F), and accommodation costs drop 50% from peak rates. October marks the busy harvest season with traditional festivals in surrounding villages. Budget travelers should target June-September for the best deals, while culture enthusiasts should prioritize FESPACO years or October's festival season. Photography enthusiasts will find dramatic skies during rainy season, while comfort-seekers should stick to November-January. Regardless of timing, Ouaga's warmth extends beyond weather—its people ensure memorable experiences year-round.