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Burkina Faso FAQ

Is tipping customary in Burkina Faso?

A 10% to 15% service charge is usually included in the bill. However it’s customary to tip taxi drivers and hotel staff.

What is the internet access like in Burkina Faso?

Internet is available in hotels in Ouagadougou and there’s an internet café in Bobo-Dioulaso. Power cuts can mean access is interrupted.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Burkina Faso?

Mobile phone coverage is fairly good in major towns. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in Burkina Faso?

Burkina Faso’s toilets may be basic. Be prepared for squat toilets, even in major centres.

Can I drink the water in Burkina Faso?

Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Burkina Faso. Instead bring water purification tablets or equivalent. For environmental reasons, try to avoid bottled water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Burkina Faso?

Credit cards are rarely accepted.

What is ATM access like in Burkina Faso?

ATMs are very rarely available. Cash can be withdrawn from a bank using your card.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Burkina Faso?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Burkina Faso?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 3 Anniversary of the 1966 Coup d’Etat
Jan 24 Milad un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Muhammed)
Mar 8 International Women’s Day
Apr 1 Easter Monday
May 1 Labour Day
May 9 Ascension Day
Aug 4 Revolution Day
Aug 5 Independence Day
Aug 8 Aid El Segheir (End of Ramadan)
Aug 15 Assumption
Oct 15 Anniversary of the 1987 Coup d’Etat
Oct 15 Aid El Kebir (Feast of Sacrifice)
Nov 1 All Saints’ Day
Nov 4 El am Hejir (Islamic New Year)
Dec 11 Proclamation of the Republic
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to:
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/burkina-faso/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Burkina Faso?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • BURKINO FASO: Visas can be obtained en route at the border. Allow US$20 cash.

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Burkina Faso at a glance

  • 0
  • Ouagadougou (population 1.45 million)
  • 17 million
  • French, More, Fulfulde, Lobi
  • XOF
  • (GMT) Casablanca
  • Type C (European 2-pin), Type E (French 2-pin, female earth)
  • +226

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