About
Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in West Africa, and its name is also given in full as the République du Burkina Faso. It is a destination that rewards visitors who come to look and listen, with a culture that is notably varied from one region to another.
What draws visitors
The country is best known for its diverse culture, which shows in its music, crafts, and everyday life. Many travellers also associate it with FESPACO, the annual film festival that gives the country a particular place in African cinema. For anyone interested in film, the festival is a reason to plan a trip around its dates.
Ouagadougou
Ouagadougou is the capital and the largest city, and it is the natural starting point for most visits. It is where the festival takes place and where much of the country's public and cultural life is centred. Spending time there gives a sense of the country's urban rhythm before heading further afield.
Planning a visit
- Check the timing of FESPACO if a film festival is your main interest.
- Allow time in Ouagadougou to see the city before travelling to other areas.
- Expect a landlocked country with a cultural landscape that differs from place to place.
Burkina Faso suits travellers who want to understand a West African country through its arts and its people. Those drawn to cinema, in particular, will find that the country offers a distinctive experience.