Capital: Ouagadougou
Area sq km: 274200.00 km²
Area sq miles: 105900.00 mi²
Population: ~ 23.20 million
Official Languages: French
Widely Spoken: Fula, Jula, More
Currency: West African CFA franc (CFA)
Driving Side: right
ISO Codes: BFA
Calling Code: 226
Median Mobile Internet Speed:
- Download: 25.63 Mbps
- Upload: 14.19 Mbps
- Latency: 19 ms
- Global Rank: #100
Median Broadband Internet Speed:
- Download: 42.23 Mbps
- Upload: 11.36 Mbps
- Latency: 7 ms
- Global Rank: #108
Electrical Socket Type:
C
Type E and F plugs will also fit in type C sockets
E
Type C and F plugs will also fit in type E sockets
Continent: Africa
Bordering Countries: Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Mali, Niger, Togo
Climate: Situated in the Sahel region, Burkina Faso experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The landscapes vary from the arid Sahel in the north to lush forests in the south. The warmth of the climate mirrors the hospitality of the Burkinabé people, creating a unique and memorable travel experience.
Emergency Police: 17
Emergency Ambulance: 112
Emergency Fire: 18
Tipping:
Vaccinations for Most Travelers: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow fever
Vaccinations for Some Travelers: Cholera, Hepatitis B, Meningococcal disease, Polio, Rabies, Tuberculosis
History
Burkina Faso's history is steeped in the tales of ancient empires, including the Mossi Kingdoms and the powerful West African empires of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai. The country gained independence from French colonial rule in 1960, and its history is a narrative of cultural richness and the struggle for self-determination.
Culture
Burkina Faso's culture is deeply rooted in traditional values, with vibrant music, dance, and art playing pivotal roles. Festivals like FESPACO, the largest African film festival, celebrate the nation's artistic spirit. Traditional masks, colorful textiles, and communal gatherings showcase the resilience and cultural pride of Burkina Faso's diverse ethnic groups.
Cuisine
Burkinabé cuisine reflects the country's agricultural abundance, featuring staples like millet, sorghum, and rice. Explore the flavors of tô, a fermented millet or sorghum porridge, and sample local dishes such as riz gras (rice cooked with meat and vegetables). Street markets and local eateries offer a taste of Burkina Faso's culinary diversity.
Language
French is the official language of Burkina Faso, a legacy of its colonial past. While French is widely spoken, especially in urban areas, Mossi (Mòoré) is a prominent indigenous language. Learning a few basic French phrases can enhance communication and foster connections with the friendly Burkinabé people.
Politics
Burkina Faso operates as a presidential republic, and its political landscape has experienced transitions and challenges. Political dynamics may have evolved, and travelers should stay informed about the current situation. Despite periodic changes, Burkina Faso remains a welcoming destination, with its people embracing visitors and sharing the richness of their cultural heritage.
Religions
Tap Water
Tap Water Global Rank #169
#1 would be highest quality tap water and #195 would be lowest quality tap water.
Crime
Global Crime Rank #53
#1 would be highest in crime and #195 would be lowest in crime.
LGBTQ
Global LGBTQ Rank #128
#1 would be highest in LGBTQ friendliness and #195 would be lowest in LGBTQ friendliness.
Cannabis Laws Recreational Illegal Medical Illegal