Burkina Faso travel advice

Risk level

Safety and security

Political situation

Two coups occurred in Burkina Faso in 2022. The country is ruled by a transitional government led by the military. In September 2023, the authorities announced a postponement of the presidential elections scheduled for July 2024. The situation remains unstable and could deteriorate rapidly.

If you are in Burkina Faso:

• remain vigilant
• monitor local media regularly to stay informed of the situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism throughout Burkina Faso, particularly in areas bordering Niger, Mali, Togo, and Côte d'Ivoire, and in the following administrative regions:

• North
• Sahel
• East
• Southwest
• Boucle du Mouhoun
• Centre-Nord
• Center, where Ouagadougou is located

The Burkinabe armed forces are unable to ensure security throughout the country. Counterterrorism operations carried out by the army and various armed militias regularly cause numerous civilian casualties.

Attacks occur frequently throughout the country and regularly target security forces and civilians. In the past, attacks have targeted Western interests in Burkina Faso.

Further attacks are highly likely, particularly in areas controlled by terrorist groups.

The following locations could be targeted:

• government buildings, including police stations
• schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs or networks
• extraction sites and companies
• public places such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, cafes, shopping centers, markets, hotels, and other places frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may take advantage of these occasions to carry out attacks.

State of emergency

A state of emergency is in effect in eight regions:

• Mouhoun Loop
• Cascades
• Center-North
• Center-East
• East
• Hauts-Bassins
• North
• Sahel

Local authorities have extended the state of emergency in various regions several times due to the ongoing terrorist threat.

When the state of emergency is in force, security forces have increased powers to:

• restrict freedom of movement
• conduct searches
• make seizures
• detain persons of interest

If you are traveling in an area where a state of emergency is in effect:

• expect multiple checkpoints
• always carry valid identification
• allow extra time to reach your destination
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• monitor local media to stay informed about the situation

Kidnappings

Kidnappings by criminal and terrorist groups, as well as by members of the country's de facto authorities, occur regularly. The threat of kidnapping varies by region but is particularly high in areas bordering Niger and Mali. Kidnappers have already targeted foreigners.

If you are in Burkina Faso despite the advisory:

• always be extremely cautious
• choose accommodation with adequate security measures
• travel using varied and unpredictable routes and schedules
• travel only in convoys of at least two vehicles for long journeys
• have an armed security escort

In the event of kidnapping, do not resist, as criminals are often armed and may become violent.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur occasionally, particularly in Ouagadougou. They often take place near government buildings, certain foreign diplomatic missions, and international organizations such as the UN. Most of the time, demonstrators denounce the precarious security situation and international reactions to the country's internal affairs.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. 

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities 
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations 

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and cell phone theft, occur, particularly in large cities. The risk is higher after dark.

In Ouagadougou, thefts often occur in the area near the United Nations roundabout and the central market.

Criminals target individuals carrying:

• cell phones
• jewelry
• money
• any other valuable items.

During your stay:

• peep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a safe place
• avoid displaying signs of wealth or wearing valuable jewelry
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• avoid walking alone after dark
• be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas

Violent crime

Criminal groups operate throughout the country, including in Ouagadougou. Burkinabe security forces are conducting operations to counter violent crime committed by these groups, but the security situation remains precarious.

Crimes include:

• murder
• armed robbery
• burglary
• physical assault
• car theft and carjacking

Pay close attention to your surroundings when withdrawing money from ATMs. Attacks occur near withdrawal points, known as “Orange Money.”

Criminal groups sometimes set up illegal roadblocks. They even fire warning shots to force vehicles to stop and rob passengers.

The most affected areas are the following regions:

• Eastern
• Central
• Central-Eastern
• Central-Northern
• Central Plateau

These incidents can also occur in other regions, day or night, on main roads and secondary roads.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times
• Avoid isolated areas
• Travel in group
• Pay attention to people walking behind you
• Do not resist if you are attacked

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons are victims of verbal and physical violence in Burkina Faso.

They are also subject to discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Avoid public displays of affection.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Roads

Road safety

Drivers are reckless and often ignore traffic laws. Vehicles cut each other off and don't yield to other people on the road. Pedestrians almost never use crosswalks to cross the street.

Drivers often speed and can be aggressive. Dangerous behavior occurs even at night when roads are poorly lit and not all cars have working headlights.

Outside the capital, Ouagadougou, improvised explosive devices pose a real threat on the roads.

Many trucks travel across the country at night.

If you choose to drive in Burkina Faso:

• always drive defensively
• avoid traveling alone after dark
• use only main roads and highways
• be wary of strangers offering assistance
• always keep doors and windows closed and locked
• always carry a cell phone and charger with you
• never leave your personal belongings in an unattended vehicle, even in the trunk
• park your vehicle in a safe place, especially at night

Road conditions

Roads are in poor condition throughout the country. Driving can be dangerous due to:

• potholes
• inadequate lighting
• uneven unpaved roads
• poorly maintained roads
• poorly maintained vehicles that do not use their headlights
• stray animals, pedestrians, various types of homemade vehicles, and debris

Road conditions can deteriorate rapidly during the rainy season. Roads can quickly become impassable.

Public transportation

You should avoid using public transportation in Burkina Faso. The vast majority of vehicles, such as buses, are in poor condition and are often involved in accidents.

Criminal groups also target buses on the road outside Ouagadougou to commit robberies.

Taxis

Only use reputable taxi companies through establishments such as hotels. Most taxis don’t use meters and vehicles are generally not in good condition.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of Burkina Faso. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules. 

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required

Online visa application – Ministry of Security of Burkina Faso (in French only)

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section). 

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in Burkina Faso. 

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Burkina Faso. 

• Bring enough medication for your stay 
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions 
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage 

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities are significantly below Canadian standards. Access to quality health care is limited, even in major cities such as Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso.

Equipment is often outdated and inadequate for major medical procedures. Medical facilities may lack basic supplies, particularly in rural areas.

If you require medical care, you should contact the Embassy of Canada to Burkina Faso, in Ouagadougou, for recommendations on medical facilities.

Clinics and doctors often request payment in cash.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Burkinabe law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between people of the same sex.

Those found guilty are subject to long prison sentences and heavy fines.

2SLGBTQI+ persons are regularly victims of discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Photography

It is prohibited to photograph installations that may be considered sensitive. This includes:

• military sites
• government buildings, including foreign diplomatic missions
• places of worship and religious monuments
• airports

Ask for permission before taking photos of official buildings or people.

Driving

To drive in Burkina Faso, you must have:

• a valid Canadian driver's license
• an international driver's license

International Driving Permit

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Burkina Faso.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Burkina Faso, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Burkina Faso.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Burkina Faso, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Burkinabe court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Burkina Faso to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Money

The official currency of Burkina Faso is the CFA franc (FCFA).

Most transactions in Burkina Faso are made in cash. Bring small bills for payments, as it can be difficult to get change for your transactions.

ATMs are available in major cities where you can withdraw CFA francs.

Euros and US dollars are also accepted in some establishments. Credit cards are accepted in some businesses in Ouagadougou, but outside the capital, their use is very limited.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Burkina Faso. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Rainy season and flooding

The rainy season extends from June to October. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services, including in the capital, Ouagadougou. Mudslides and landslides may damage roads and bridges, which may quickly become impassable.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Sand and dust storms

Sandstorms can occur at any time, particularly during the summer months in the south of the country. From November to May, the Harmattan, a wind blowing from the Sahara, brings sand and dust.

During a dust storm:

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed
• be prepared to change, interrupt, or cancel your trip at any time
• monitor local media to stay informed about the situation