15 Best Things to do in Ouagadougou
Ouagadougou isn’t the kind of city that impresses you at first glance. There are no headline landmarks, no polished old towns, and no obvious “must-see” sights. But bear with me (and Ouaga, as it’s otherwise known)!
Instead, Ouagadougou can feel chaotic, dusty, and a little overwhelming when you first arrive. But spend a bit of time here, and you’ll realise that’s not the point.
This unique capital city is built on culture, creativity, and the atmosphere of everyday life. It’s the beating heart of Burkina Faso, known for its music, art, and film scene – most famously hosting FESPACO, the largest film festival in Africa.
Here, daily life is at the forefront – from busy markets and roadside food stalls to motorbikes weaving through traffic and music spilling out of bars after dark. Plus it’s refreshingly untouristy. You won’t find crowds here, and interactions tend to feel genuine, which makes even simple moments more memorable.
So whilst it’s not a city of bucket-list attractions, it’s one of the most authentic and culturally rich capitals in West Africa. And if you’re open to it, there’s still plenty of things to do in Ouagadougou!
In this guide, I’ll break down the 15 best things to do in Ouagadougou, along with some practical tips to help you make the most of your time here.
1. Sacred Crocodiles at Bazoule
If there’s one truly memorable experience near Ouagadougou, it’s this. It turned out to be one of the most surreal experiences in my time in Burkina Faso!
Around 45 minutes outside the city, the village of Bazoulé is home to a group of sacred crocodiles that locals live alongside. It’s terrifying, but you can get incredibly close to them.
With the help of local guides, crocodiles are summoned from the water, before visitors are invited to sit next to them (or even on them) for photos. Reading it online might sound ridiculous, and honestly, it’s just as ridiculous when you’re there too!
It’s a quick and easy half-day trip from Ouagadougou. I recommend going earlier in the day to avoid the heat.
I’ve written a full guide on the crocodiles of Bazoule to help you with your visit.
2. Visit the National Museum
If you want to understand the country beyond first impressions, the National Museum of Burkina Faso is the best place to start. Whilst it’s slightly out of the centre of town, it’s worth the journey and 2000 CFA entrance fee.
This part-indoor, part-outdoor museum gives a simple but insightful overview of Burkina’s different ethnic groups, traditions, and history. You’ll find displays of accommodation, masks, tools, clothing, art, and everyday objects that help bring context to what you’ll see elsewhere in the country.
With minimal signage, few tourists and a small number of exhibits, it’s not a massive museum (but I think that’s part of the appeal). You can take your time, wander through the exhibits, and get a better sense of the cultural diversity that shapes the country. We had a guide that helped show us around which massively helped.
My Tip: Visit early in your trip to Ouagadougou as it’ll give you a better appreciation for the rest of your time in the city.
3. Thomas Sankara Mausoleum
One of the most important historical sites in Burkina Faso is the Thomas Sankara Mausoleum.
Thomas Sankara is a hugely significant figure in the country’s history – often referred to as “Africa’s Che Guevara.” During his time as president in the 1980s, he pushed for anti-corruption, self-sufficiency, and social reform.
The mausoleum marks the place where he was assassinated in 1987, and today it’s both a memorial and a symbol of his legacy.
Visiting isn’t about ticking off a sight – it’s about understanding a key part of Burkina Faso’s identity. Even if you don’t know much about Sankara beforehand, being there gives a sense of just how respected he still is. Their current president (Ibrahim Traore) is frequently likened to him.
My Tip: Read a little about Thomas Sankara before visiting. It makes the experience far more impactful once you’re there (otherwise it’s just a statue).
4. Ouagadougou Central Mosque
The Grand Mosque of Ouagadougou is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks.
Located in the centre, its large white exterior and minarets stand out against the otherwise low-rise surroundings. While non-Muslims typically can’t enter, it’s still worth stopping by to see it from the outside and get a sense of the city’s religious life.
My Tip: Visit respectfully and dress modestly, especially if you’re taking photos nearby.
NOTE: It’s worth being aware that there are two large mosques near the centre of Ouaga. They’re both worth seeing, but this is the central mosque.
5. Ouagadogou Central Cathedral
Just a short distance away from the mosque, Ouagadougou Cathedral offers a completely different atmosphere.
Built during the colonial era, the cathedral’s red-brick structure contrasts nicely with the mosque and highlights the mix of influences in the city. It’s a quick stop, but worth it for the architecture and a quieter moment away from the busy streets.
Unlike the mosque, you are allowed inside. It’s free to enter.
6. Mogho Naba Palace
The Mogho Naba Palace is the residence of the traditional Mossi king – one of the most important cultural figures in Burkina Faso. As such, there is a fair amount of security on the outside, and you will sometimes need proof of booking/appointment.
Every Friday morning, a short ceremony takes place outside the palace, reenacting a historic moment where the king symbolically prepares for war before being persuaded to stand down. Arrive early if you want to witness it.
7. Ouagadougou Grand Market
If you want to experience the energy of Ouagadougou, head straight to the Grand Marché in the heart of the city.
You’ll find everything here: colourful fabrics, fresh produce, electronics, street food, and just about anything else you can think of. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time just wandering through the maze of stalls.
It’s also one of the best places to observe daily life. Traders shouting prices, people loading and unloading products, and locals simply going about their day.
As a tourist, it’s particularly intense as everyone will try to sell you items (many that you don’t need) or simply have a conversation while you’re on the move. Have fun bartering and getting to know people!
My Tip: Keep your belongings secure and don’t be afraid to wander a bit (there are multiple exits)!
8. Monument of National Heroes
Standing tall on the outskirts of the city, the National Heroes Monument is one of Ouagadougou’s more modern landmarks.
The monument is dedicated to national heroes and represents key moments in Burkina Faso’s fascinating history. While there isn’t a huge amount to “do” here, it’s worth visiting for the views over the city and to see a different side of Ouagadougou beyond the busy centre.
It’s also noticeably quieter than most other spots, which makes it a good place to take a breather.
NOTE: Apparently you can even go up to the top, but they had industrial work going on when I visited (2026), meaning we were unable to access it.
9. Explore Ouaga 2000
Ouaga 2000 feels like a completely different city compared to the rest of Ouagadougou.
This newer district is home to wide roads, government buildings, embassies, and some of the city’s more modern developments. It’s cleaner, more organised, and much less chaotic than the centre, making it an interesting contrast to places like the Grand Marché. You can really see how the city is developing beyond its traditional core!
You’ll also find a few restaurants, cafés, and hotels here if you’re looking for somewhere a bit more relaxed with more westernised coffees!
10. Murals by the Military Camp
One of my favourite things to do in Ouagadougou is simply enjoying the street art.
Across different neighbourhoods, you’ll find murals painted on walls, shops, and buildings. For the most part, these colourful murals often reflect themes of identity, politics, and everyday life in Burkina Faso.
Since the vibrant art covers an otherwise dusty city, it’s not all in one place… Instead it’s more something you’ll notice as you explore. However, I found the art was particularly concentrated by the Military Camp (Camp Militaire) in the centre of town.
Excuse the pun, but they literally paint a picture of Burkina’s view of the military here.
11. Artisanal Market
If you’re looking for locally made crafts, the Village Artisanal de Ouagadougou is the best place to go.
This space brings together artisans from across the country, selling everything from wood carvings and jewellery to textiles and leather goods. Unlike the Grand Marché, it’s more relaxed and less chaotic, making it easier to browse. Plus, I found the products largely more interesting and appealing (as a tourist).
You can also watch some of the artisans at work, which adds a bit more depth to the experience.
Prices are generally higher than local markets, but I think the quality is often better. Plus you’re directly supporting local craftspeople.
12. Bang Weogo Park
If you need a break from the dust and traffic, Bangr-Weoogo Urban Park in the northeast of the city is the best green space in Ouagadougou.
This large park offers walking trails, shaded areas, and even some wildlife, making it a peaceful escape from the busy streets. It’s a good place to slow things down for a couple of hours.
It’s not a must-see, but it’s a nice balance to the rest of the city’s intensity and adds a bit of variety to your time here.
My Tip: Go in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler. Midday heat in Ouaga can be brutal.
13. Eat the local food
One of the best things to do in Ouagadougou is simply eat.
Burkinese food is simple, filling, and full of flavour – and you’ll find most of it on the street rather than in restaurants. Think grilled meat (brochettes), rice with sauce, fried plantain, and local staples like tô (a maize-based dish) served with rich, often spicy sauces. Brochettes are my absolute favourite!
Evenings in particular come alive, with smoke from grills filling the air and people gathering to eat and socialise.
My Tip: Stick to busy stalls with high turnover – it’s usually a good sign the food is fresh and popular with locals.
14. See an opera at the Theatre Populaire
For a glimpse into the city’s creative side, check out a performance at the National Theatre of Ouagadougou.
Ouagadougou has a strong reputation for music, dance, and performance, so if there’s something on during your visit, it’s well worth going. Shows can range from traditional dance to modern theatre and live music.
It’s not something you can always plan in advance, but if the timing lines up, it’s a great way to experience the cultural energy the city is known for. Therefore, ask locally or check with your accommodation to see what’s on as events often aren’t advertised online.
15. Day trip to Tiebele
If you have extra time, a day trip to Tiébélé is well worth it.
Located a few hours south of Ouagadougou, Tiébélé is known for its beautifully decorated Kassena houses. These traditional homes are painted with intricate patterns using natural materials, creating one of the most visually unique villages in West Africa.
It’s a very different experience from the capital. It’s slower-paced, more traditional, and focused on community life.
You’ll usually need to go with a guide or organised transport to visit, and always ask before taking photos as the site is culturally significant. Ask around with guides and drivers as you can be quoted a variety of prices!
How long to spend in Ouagadougou
For most travellers, 1 to 2 days in Ouagadougou is enough to get a feel for the city and tick off the main highlights. I spent two nights here which was perfect to see everything I wanted to see.
With one day in Ouagadougou, you can easily cover a mix of culture and key sights (e.g. Bazoule crocodile pool, the Grand Marché, the National Museum, and a visit to the Thomas Sankara Mausoleum). If you’re moving efficiently and don’t mind the heat, you could potentially fit in Ouaga 2000 or a quick stop at the National Heroes Monument too.
With a second day, things start to feel less rushed. This is when you can add more depth and visit places like the Village Artisanal, Bangr-Weoogo Park, or timing the Mogho Naba ceremony if you’re there on a Friday morning. It also gives you time to just slow down a bit and experience the city without constantly moving between sights.
If you’re planning a day trip to Tiébélé, it’s worth adding an extra day on top of this so you’re not trying to squeeze everything in. Though you could also stay in Tiébélé instead, which is ideal if you’re crossing into Ghana afterwards.
Where to stay in Ouagadougou
Most visitors to Ouagadougou stay in a couple of key areas, depending on budget and how comfortable they want their base to be. Here are my top two suggestions:
- Central Ouagadougou (most popular): Staying near the city centre and Grand Marché area is the most convenient location for first-time visitors. It puts you close to markets, restaurants, and many of the main sights. It’s busy and chaotic, but very practical if you want to be in the middle of things.
- My choice: Les Palmiers Hotel Ouagadougou
- Ouaga 2000: For something more modern and relaxed, Ouaga 2000 is the best choice. This newer district has wider roads, better infrastructure, and more upscale hotels. It feels much calmer than the city centre, but you’ll need transport to reach most attractions which isn’t always the easiest.
- My choice: Deluxe Residence Ouaga 2000
Budget travellers often stick closer to the centre, where you’ll find smaller guesthouses and simple hotels. Comfort levels vary a lot, so it’s worth checking reviews and confirming basics like air conditioning and security before booking. We walked into a couple of places to look before booking in person.
If it’s your first time in Ouaga, stay central for convenience and authenticity. Then switch to Ouaga 2000 if you want something quieter and more comfortable.
How to get around Ouagadougou
Getting around Ouagadougou is fairly straightforward, but don’t expect a formal public transport system.
The most common way to travel is by shared taxis or private taxis, which are available pretty much everywhere. As per the rest of this region, you’ll need to negotiate the fare before getting in, with prices varying depending on distance, time of day and the driver’s general mood. Overall though, short journeys are pretty cheap.
If you’re travelling solo, another popular option is motorbike taxis (locally called “motos”). These are often the fastest way to move through traffic, especially during busy hours (Ouaga can sometimes struggle with traffic). They’re ideal for short distances, but less comfortable for longer journeys or if you have luggage.
For longer distances or day trips (like Bazoule or Tiébélé), you’ll typically arrange a private driver or shared car through your accommodation or local contacts. This is the most practical option since public transport between smaller destinations can be inconsistent.
Walking is also possible in some areas, especially around the city centre, but heat, traffic, and distances can make it less practical during the day. I walked between the mosque, cathedral, market, murals and Mogho Naba which saved me some money. Though I was grateful to have a pool to cool off in afterwards!
My Tip: Always agree on the price before starting the journey – even if it feels obvious. The amount of times I’ve got to the end of a journey and the driver says something different… grrr…
Tips for visiting Ouagadougou
Visiting Ouagadougou is pretty straightforward once you’re there, but a few practical tips will make your experience smoother and a lot more enjoyable.
- Expect the heat and dust: This is a West African capital in the Sahel, so it gets hot fast and stays dusty. Plan slower days (if you can) and don’t try to pack too much in.
- Stay somewhere you can relax in the daytime: If you’re looking to avoid the midday heat, it’s nice to stay somewhere pleasant. Either with A/C, a pool or fans.
- Carry cash: Cards are rarely accepted outside of higher-end hotels. Withdraw enough money (CFA) when you arrive and keep it secure.
- Learn a bit of French: Despite the obvious tensions between Burkina and France, learning some of the language still goes a long way here. Even basic phrases make transport, food, and interactions much easier.
- Use taxis and motos smartly: Prices aren’t fixed, and negotiation is normal. Always agree on the price before getting in.
- Dress respectfully: Burkina Faso is a predominantly Muslim country, and modest clothing is appreciated, especially outside of central areas. As a man, shorts are largely fine (other than at mosques) but I’d advise against vests or anything skimpy.
- Stay flexible: Things don’t always run on time here – transport, opening hours, and plans can change last minute.
- Ask locally for events: Music, theatre, and cultural events often aren’t well advertised online, so your accommodation or locals are your best source.
FAQs
Is Ouagadougou safe?
Firstly, I want to state that I am not a government travel advisory, nor is this blog kept up-to-date on a daily basis!
However, when I visited in early 2026, I can say that I felt very safe walking around the city (despite it being rated as a Level 4 travel risk). That said, I am a man, I wasn’t solo, I stayed largely in the centre of town and didn’t go out late at night.
The people I met were friendly, welcoming and largely very curious. Plus I happened to find more people here who spoke English, which was a bonus.
In terms of security, there were several police checkpoints within the city and around the edges. There’s definitely an official presence (military and police) there which made the capital feel more secure. Even our accommodation had 24/7 security.
Is Ouagadougou worth visiting?
Visiting Ouagadougou is a personal preference, but I certainly think it’s worth visiting!
It’s the political capital of the country, the main transit hub, and has some things to do which are unique to Ouagadougou.
You won’t need a long time to explore, but it’s definitely worth stopping in Ouaga for a few days if you are visiting Burkina Faso!
How expensive is Ouagadougou?
Ouagadougou, like the rest of Burkina Faso, felt much cheaper than the rest of West Africa.
However, there are some (optional) things that have the potential to increase the spend significantly!
Private drivers or personal guides can be disproportionately expensive for what they offer, so make sure to ask around for costs. For an independent day guide around the city, I was quoted anywhere between $150 USD and $450 USD…
Otherwise, food was reasonably priced, most of the things to do in Ouagadougou on this list are cheap (or even free), and getting around was good value with some negotiation (usually a couple of pounds for an internal-city ride).
Do you need a guide for Ouagadougou?
When I visited Ouagadougou (in 2026), you did not need a guide. I happily explored many of these things to do in Ouagadougou independently!
I love exploring at my own pace and on a budget, so this worked well for me.
That being said, Ouaga (and Burkina generally) is probably a place where I could see more value in getting a guide. You can avoid the heat in an air-conditioned car, you can ask all those political questions that are otherwise unanswered, and you can get a closer feel to the local life that you simply struggle with independently.
Where to go after Ouagadougou?
From Ouagadougou, you have several options for where to travel next given its international airport and bus interchange both offer a variety of international connections (to Mali, Togo, Ivory Coast and Ghana).
Since this was part of my overlanding trip through West Africa, I journeyed south towards the Ghanaen border via Po and Tiebele. Into Ghana, I started in Tamale, before heading to Mole National Park in search of elephants.
If you’re looking to explore more of Burkina Faso, you have several options. The most popular being Bobo-Dioulasso, the cultural centre of Burkina.
Similarly, you can continue along this route southwest towards the more natural setting of Banfora.
At time of writing, the northern regions and areas bordering Mali and Niger are more sensitive, so if you’re seeking these areas, please seek up-to-date travel advice from authorities.
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