Burkina Faso Travel Vaccines and Advice

Both the incredible hospitality of its residents and its exceptional culture make Burkina Faso well worth a visit. Located in the heart of the Sahel, this land may house kilometres of arid lands, but still offers plenty of experiences for visitors. Ever been tempted by riding a camel throughout the desert? Look no further than Burkina Faso – a country where surprises wait for you at every corner. Take a stroll through colourful plains and sandstone massif with large cliffs, marvelling at the striking landscape. Be enticed by tradition and culture in local African villages, and experience the joy of the local inhabitants.

Make sure you know about Burkina Faso’s medical care and safety and security tips.
Travelling a bridge in Burkina Faso

Recommended travel vaccinations for Burkina Faso

VaccineDisease Transmission
Traveler’s diarrheaContaminated water/food
Cholera
Typhoid
Hepatitis A
MeningitisAirborne Droplets
Influenza
Hepatitis BContaminated body fluids
(blood, sex, razors, needles, etc.)
RabiesInfected Animals
Yellow FeverMosquito bites
MMR (MeaslesMumpsRubella)Various ways of transmission

Recommended Medication for Travelling to Burkina Faso

MedicationAdditional Information
Azithromycin/SupraxAntibiotic in case of traveler’s diarrhea
Malarone, Doxycycline or MefloquineRecommended anti-malaria medication

Current Weather in Burkina Faso

OUAGADOUGOU WEATHER

Medical Care in Burkina Faso

The Burkina Faso health care system constitutes both public and private hospitals. However, access to basic health care is problematic due to lack of facilities and medicines. Access to medicines is very limited and it should be noted that many local pharmacists do not hold a license to practice.

In order to minimize the use of these services, ensure to carry a pharmacy kit with you to Burkina Faso. Be aware that you may find it challenging to receive emergency treatment in the event of a serious illness or accident, as services are poorly equipped and response times are slow. This is particularly true of rural areas.

In order to call for an ambulance, dial 112.

Is Burkina Faso Safe for Travel?

Safety and Security Descriptive
Crime Risk present
Terrorism High risk
Demonstrations Risk of violence
Road safety Hazardous driving; Narrow roads
Public transportation Not recommended
Northern areas/Border regions Avoid all travel
Banditry Risk present
Health Zika virus and dengue fever warning
Risk level AVOID NON ESSENTIAL TRAVEL
Please click here for more information.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Burkina Faso?

Prior to travel, make sure you check with your transportation company about any passport requirements. This is important as in some cases their regulations on passport validity may be more strict than those of the destination country. Both, a visa and a passport are required to enter Burkina Faso. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is also required. Please click here for more information.

Embassy of Canada to Burkina Faso information

When travelling to another country, it is important to know where the Canadian embassy is located in the event of:
  • A legal problem
  • A lost passport
  • The need to report a crime

It is advisable to make a copy of your original passport in case you lose it.

Canadian Embassy to Burkina Faso (OUGADOUGOU)
Street Address:
316 Professeur Ki-Zerbo Street,
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Tel.: +226 25 49 08 00 or +226 25 31 18 94
Fax: +226 25 49 08 10 or +226 25 31 19 00

Email: [email protected]

Click here to access the embassy’s website