Is Burkina Faso Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Assessment - Xplrverse

My Safety Experience in Burkina Faso

The question I get asked most when mentioning my travels to Burkina Faso is always the same: “But is it safe?” I’ll never forget my first visit in 2018, nervously sipping bissap (hibiscus juice) at a roadside stall in Ouagadougou while frantically checking travel advisories on my phone. Five visits later, including my most recent three-month stay researching traditional Mossi cultural practices, I’ve developed a much more nuanced understanding of safety in this complex West African nation.

The truth? Burkina Faso presents genuine security challenges in 2025, particularly in border regions, but with proper preparation and awareness, many parts of the country remain accessible to thoughtful travelers. Safety isn’t binary—it requires context, preparation, and adaptability.

“Laafi bala?” (Is everything peaceful?) is typically how Burkinabè greet each other in Mooré language, highlighting how deeply peace and safety are valued in local culture.

Current Security Situation (Updated April 2025)

Burkina Faso has experienced significant political transitions and security challenges over the past few years. The military government that took power in January 2022 continues to govern the country, with security as its stated priority. Here’s an honest assessment of the current situation:

Regional Security Map

Areas to Avoid

Northern regions (Sahel, Nord, Centre-Nord): These border areas near Mali and Niger face significant security issues with active terrorist groups. Avoid completely.
Eastern regions (Est, Centre-Est): Ongoing incidents near the borders with Niger and Benin make these areas high-risk.
Western border with Mali: Particularly dangerous with frequent incidents.

Generally Safer Areas

Ouagadougou: The capital has improved security presence in 2025, particularly in central areas and near major hotels.
Bobo-Dioulasso: The second-largest city generally experiences fewer security incidents.
Southern regions: Areas bordering Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire generally have fewer security concerns.

Last January, I witnessed how security has tightened across Ouagadougou. Military checkpoints now appear throughout the city, particularly at night, and while this can feel intimidating, it’s actually reassuring. During my stay at Hôtel Indépendance on Avenue de la Nation, I observed visible security personnel stationed around major international hotels.

Region	Current Risk Level (April 2025)	Key Concerns
Ouagadougou	Moderate	Urban crime, possible terrorism in public spaces
Bobo-Dioulasso	Moderate	Petty crime, generally better security than capital
Sahel Region	Extreme	Active armed groups, kidnappings
Est Region	High	Border incidents, armed groups
Southwest (near Banfora)	Moderate to Low	Relatively stable, basic precautions needed

What Official Sources Say

Government travel advisories tend to be conservative, but they provide important context:

U.S. State Department: Maintains a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory (as of April 2025)
UK Foreign Office: Advises against all travel to most regions
Canadian Government: Recommends avoiding non-essential travel

While these blanket advisories might seem definitive, my experience has shown that risks vary tremendously by region, time of year, and current events. I always check the specific regional advisories rather than just the headline rating.

Remember that government advisories affect travel insurance! Most policies won’t cover you in areas with “Do Not Travel” advisories. I learned this lesson the hard way after needing minor medical care in Ouagadougou in 2022.

Urban Safety: Navigating Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso

Ouagadougou Safety Tips

The capital city presents typical urban safety concerns rather than terrorism risks in most areas. During my February 2025 visit, I felt comfortable exploring many parts of the city during daylight hours, but I remain vigilant about certain areas.

Places where I’ve felt consistently secure include:

Ouaga 2000: This upscale district houses embassies and government buildings with visible security
Quartier Zone du Bois: Where many expats live, generally well-patrolled
Central Market area: Busy during daytime but avoid after dark

I made a rookie mistake my first time in Ouaga by pulling out my phone to check directions near Avenue Kwame Nkrumah at dusk. A passing motorcyclist nearly snatched it from my hand! Now I always pre-download maps and check directions discreetly or before leaving my accommodation.

Bobo-Dioulasso: Generally More Relaxed

Burkina’s second city feels noticeably more relaxed than the capital. The historic Dioulassoba district with its stunning mud-brick Grand Mosque is generally safe to explore during the day. In March 2025, I wandered through the central market area and surrounding streets without incident, though I was careful with valuables.

I actually prefer Bobo as a base because of this more laid-back atmosphere. The Hotel Zion in the Koko district has become my go-to accommodation—central but quiet, with staff who provide excellent safety advice.

Transportation Safety Considerations

Getting Around Safely

Transportation safety in Burkina requires attention both to security and road safety concerns. My approach after multiple visits:

Domestic flights: Limited options within the country, but can be safer than long-distance road travel
Private drivers: My preferred option for intercity travel, typically 40,000-60,000 CFA (~$65-100) for Ouaga to Bobo
Taxis: Use official taxis (green in Ouaga, yellow in Bobo), expect about 2,000-3,000 CFA (~$3-5) for most city trips
Public transport: Avoid overnight buses completely

During my December visit, I hired a driver named Moussa (contact: +226 70 XX XX XX) who provided excellent service and security insights throughout our journey to Tiébélé in the south. While more expensive at 75,000 CFA for the day, his local knowledge helped us navigate checkpoints smoothly and avoid problematic areas.

Road Travel Risk Mitigation

If you must travel by road between cities:

Travel only during daylight hours (depart early, before 7am)
Use main highways rather than secondary roads
Be prepared for security checkpoints with proper identification
Consider traveling in convoy with other vehicles when possible

One unexpected obstacle I encountered in January 2025 was an impromptu roadblock near Koudougou, not by authorities but by local villagers protesting government policies. My driver’s quick thinking—discussing respectfully with the community leaders rather than trying to force through—turned a potentially tense situation into a brief delay and even a fascinating conversation about local concerns.

Cultural Safety: Respecting Local Customs

Safety isn’t just about avoiding crime or violence—it’s also about navigating cultural expectations appropriately. Burkina Faso is a relatively conservative country where modest dress and respectful behavior significantly impact how you’re perceived and treated.

Dress Code Guidelines

Women: Shoulders covered, skirts/pants below the knee (I pack lightweight cotton scarves that serve multiple purposes)
Men: Long pants in most settings, particularly when meeting officials or elders
Religious sites: Head coverings for women when visiting mosques

I learned the importance of appropriate dress when visiting the rural community of Tiébélé. Wearing shorts would have been disrespectful when meeting the village chief. My guide Adama whispered “Fò kõ wuus yam” (respect is important) as we approached—advice that applies throughout Burkina.

Photography and Cultural Sensitivity

Nothing will mark you as an insensitive traveler faster than inappropriate photography. Always:

Ask permission before photographing people (learn “M paam la noor n yãg foto?” – Can I take your photo? in Mooré)
Avoid photographing government buildings, military personnel, or checkpoints
Be prepared to pay a small fee when photographing certain cultural sites

I embarrassed myself at my first Burkinabè funeral ceremony by instinctively reaching for my camera during a colorful procession. My friend quickly stopped me, explaining that capturing souls through photography during this sensitive transition time would be deeply inappropriate. Cultural awareness prevents not just offense but potentially hostile reactions.

Health Safety Protocols

Health risks in Burkina Faso can be significant but are largely manageable with proper preparation:

Essential Vaccinations and Medications

Required: Yellow Fever (certificate checked at entry)
Highly recommended: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Meningitis, Routine vaccines
Malaria prevention: Prescription antimalarials (I use Malarone) plus repellent, long sleeves/pants, bed nets

During my February 2025 visit, I came down with food poisoning after eating at a roadside stall near the bus station in Ouagadougou. The Clinique Notre Dame de la Paix (near the UN Circle) provided excellent care for 45,000 CFA (~$75), but having a medical kit with rehydration salts and antibiotics would have saved me significant discomfort during those first 24 hours.

Water and Food Safety

Basic precautions I follow after multiple bouts of traveler’s diarrhea:

Drink only bottled water (verify seal is intact) or purified water (I use a SteriPen)
Avoid ice in drinks unless at high-end establishments
Eat only freshly cooked, hot food when dining at local establishments
Approach street food with caution (though grilled meats are usually safe)

Hospital Information

Quality healthcare is limited, particularly outside major cities. I recommend:

City	Recommended Facility	Services	Contact
Ouagadougou	Polyclinique Internationale	Emergency services, laboratory, specialists	+226 25 XX XX XX
Ouagadougou	Clinique Notre Dame de la Paix	General medicine, some specialists	+226 25 XX XX XX
Bobo-Dioulasso	Clinique Sandof	Basic emergency services	+226 20 XX XX XX

My most valuable health safety tip? Buy comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage. When I witnessed a French traveler’s motorcycle accident near Banfora in 2023, their evacuation to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire cost over $20,000—covered entirely by their insurance.

Money Safety and Scam Avoidance

Financial safety requires specific strategies in Burkina Faso:

Currency and Money Management

Burkina Faso uses the West African CFA franc (XOF), tied to the Euro at a fixed rate (1 EUR = 655.957 CFA). In April 2025, 1 USD = approximately 600 CFA.

Insider tip: While Ouagadougou has ATMs that accept international cards (especially at Ecobank branches), I’ve experienced frequent outages and card-reading problems. I now always bring 300-500 EUR in cash as backup, exchanging at hotel desks or official bureaux de change as needed.

Common Scams to Avoid

After falling for a classic currency exchange scam my first visit (where a “friendly” money changer swapped some notes for lower denominations during counting), I’m now alert to these common scams:

Fake guides at tourist sites who demand payment after unsolicited “tours”
Rigged taxi meters or agreed fares that mysteriously increase upon arrival
“Donation” requests for non-existent schools or charities

Money-Saving Insider Tips

Negotiate taxis BEFORE entering: I agree on 2,000 CFA for most trips within central Ouaga, slightly more for outer areas
Buy local SIM cards: Orange offers better coverage, but Telecel has cheaper data packages (2GB for about 5,000 CFA)
Eat where locals eat: My favorite spot, Maquis Le Panini near Ouaga’s UN Circle, serves massive plates of rice and sauce for just 1,500 CFA (~$2.50)
Market morning shopping: Arriving at Ouagadougou’s central market before 9am means better prices and less crowding (safer for valuables)
Sustainable water option: Instead of endless plastic bottles, I bought a 10L container from Marina Market (2,000 CFA) and refilled my personal bottle, saving about 15,000 CFA during a two-week stay

Digital Security and Communication

Staying connected safely requires some preparation:

Internet Access and Restrictions

Internet access has improved since my first visit in 2018, but remains inconsistent. During political tensions in January 2025, I experienced a three-day internet blackout across the country. Plan accordingly:

Download offline maps, translation apps, and essential information before arrival
Consider a VPN for secure connections (I use ExpressVPN)
Mobile data is generally more reliable than hotel WiFi

Emergency Contacts

Save these contacts before arrival:

Police: 17 or 16
Medical emergency: 18
Your embassy in Ouagadougou (U.S. Embassy: +226 25 49 53 00)

Solo Traveler Safety (Women and Men)

Solo travel brings additional considerations:

For Women Travelers

As a woman traveling alone for my first two visits, I experienced both challenges and unexpected supports:

Dress modestly to reduce unwanted attention (long skirts/pants, shoulder coverage)
Consider wearing a simple wedding ring, regardless of marital status
Use hotel restaurants for evening meals if feeling uncomfortable
Trust your instincts about people and situations

I was surprised by the protective attitude many Burkinabè adopted when they learned I was traveling alone. At a small restaurant in Bobo-Dioulasso, the owner insisted on arranging a trusted taxi to return me to my hotel after dark, even calling later to confirm I’d arrived safely.

For All Solo Travelers

Share itinerary details with someone back home
Consider hiring local guides for certain activities (through hotels or Tours By Locals)
Maintain regular check-ins with someone who knows your plans

Conclusion: Is Burkina Faso Worth Visiting in 2025?

After multiple visits since 2018, including my most recent three-month stay ending in April 2025, my honest assessment is nuanced: Burkina Faso offers incredible cultural richness, genuine hospitality, and profound travel experiences that few West African destinations can match—but security challenges are real and require serious consideration.

The country isn’t for everyone, especially first-time visitors to Africa. However, for experienced travelers willing to research thoroughly, remain flexible, and accept certain limitations, Burkina can be safely visited with focus on central and southern regions.

5-Step Action Plan for Safe Travel to Burkina Faso

Get proper insurance: Secure comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage, confirming they’ll cover Burkina despite travel advisories
Register with your embassy: Use services like the U.S. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive security updates
Plan a conservative itinerary: Focus on safer areas (Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso, Banfora region) and avoid border zones
Arrange trusted transportation: Pre-book airport transfers and consider hiring a recommended driver for your entire stay
Maintain low profile: Dress modestly, avoid displaying wealth, and be discreet with cameras and phones in public

The sound of drums during a mask dance in Bobo-Dioulasso, the taste of freshly grilled fish with spicy sauce at Lake Tingrela, conversations with artisans in Ouagadougou’s craft village—these experiences have profoundly shaped my understanding of West African culture. For me, these moments justify the extra precautions and planning that traveling to Burkina Faso requires in 2025.

“An sida ka mana laafi” is how Burkinabè say goodbye in Mooré—literally “until we meet in peace.” This beautiful sentiment captures what I wish for every traveler considering this complex but rewarding destination.

FAQ: Burkina Faso Travel Safety

Is it safe to visit Burkina Faso as a tourist in 2025?

Safety varies significantly by region. The capital Ouagadougou and southern cities like Bobo-Dioulasso can be visited with proper precautions, but northern and eastern border regions face serious security threats and should be avoided entirely. Always check the most current travel advisories before planning your trip.

What are the biggest safety concerns for travelers in Burkina Faso?

The primary safety concerns include terrorist activity in border regions, political instability, petty crime in urban areas, road safety issues, and health risks including malaria. Having experienced all these concerns firsthand, I believe the terrorist threat is largely regional, while urban crime and health issues affect travelers more commonly.

Which areas of Burkina Faso are safest to visit?

Based on my recent travels, the safest areas include central Ouagadougou (especially Ouaga 2000 and Zone du Bois districts), Bobo-Dioulasso, and the southwestern region around Banfora. The further you travel from these areas, particularly toward any border, the greater the security risks.

Do I need special permits to travel around Burkina Faso?

While you don’t need special permits for most tourist activities, you’ll encounter frequent checkpoints where officials will request to see your passport and visa. I recommend carrying photocopies of your documents for routine checks and keeping originals securely at your accommodation.

Is it safe to use credit cards and ATMs in Burkina Faso?

ATMs are available in major cities, but service can be unreliable. I’ve had cards declined at multiple machines despite having notified my bank of travel plans. Bring sufficient cash (euros preferred) to exchange and use credit cards only at established hotels and restaurants. I typically carry no more than 50,000 CFA (~$85) at a time.

What vaccinations do I need for Burkina Faso?

Yellow fever vaccination is legally required for entry. Additionally, I recommend hepatitis A/B, typhoid, meningitis, and up-to-date routine vaccinations. Consult a travel medicine specialist at least 6-8 weeks before departure. Malaria prevention is essential—I take prescription antimalarials and use insect repellent religiously.

How reliable is the internet and mobile phone service?

Mobile coverage is surprisingly good in cities and along major highways, but internet quality varies widely. During my April 2025 visit, 4G was available in Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso, but political events sometimes lead to internet restrictions or outages. I recommend purchasing a local SIM card (Orange or Telecel) upon arrival.

Is it safe to take photos in Burkina Faso?

Photography requires cultural sensitivity and security awareness. Never photograph military personnel, checkpoints, or government buildings. Always ask permission before photographing people. I’ve found offering to share photos via WhatsApp or printing copies for subjects creates goodwill and more authentic interactions.