Transportation in Ouagadougou

# Getting Around Ouagadougou Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso's capital, relies primarily on **taxis** and **motorcycle taxis (zémidjans)** for visitor transportation. Taxis are widely available throughout the city and typically operate without meters, so agreeing on fares before departure is essential. Motorcycle taxis offer a faster, more economical option for navigating the city's traffic, though comfort and luggage capacity are limited. For those preferring more independence, car rentals are available, but be prepared for busy traffic conditions and local driving customs. **From Ouagadougou Airport**, taxis are the standard option for reaching the city center. The airport is located relatively close to downtown, making transfers straightforward. As with all taxi journeys in Ouagadougou, negotiate your fare in advance or ensure the driver agrees to use a meter if available. Information not available regarding specific shuttle services or public transport connections from the airport—check current options upon arrival or through your accommodation. **First-time visitor tip**: Always carry small denominations of West African CFA francs for taxi fares, as drivers may not have change for large bills. While some hotels can arrange airport pickups, having your destination address written down or saved on your phone helps ensure smooth communication with drivers.

Negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey as most taxis don't use meters

Carry small denomination CFA franc notes for taxi payments and local transport

Shared green taxis (taxi-brousse) follow set routes and are the main public transport option

Download offline maps before arrival as GPS navigation helps communicate destinations to drivers