Burkina Faso

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 17 or 25-30-63-83, or 25-30-71-00 for police.
  • Dial 25-36-44-42 or 25-32-60-69 for administrative issues.
• Dial 18 for the fire department.
  • Dial 25-30-69-47 or 25-30-69-48 for administrative issues.
• Dial 15 for ambulance services.
  • Dial 25-30-66-44 or 25-30-66-45 for administrative issues.
• Dial 16 or 25-30-62-71 for the gendarmerie (military police).
  • Dial 25-30-32-71 or 25-31-33-40 for administrative issues.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target Americans abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Terrorist groups

• Avoid travel outside of Ouagadougou because of insecurity and ongoing military operations.
• Violent terrorist groups are active in Burkina Faso and throughout the region. They have targeted Westerners in attacks and kidnappings.
• Terrorist groups have conducted numerous cross-border attacks in the Sahel region. They have attacked police stations, customs offices, military posts, and schools in the Sahel region. Terrorists have also attacked within Ouagadougou.
• Terrorists attacked the French Embassy and Burkina Faso’s military headquarters in downtown Ouagadougou.
• The areas near the border with Mali and Niger and some remote areas in southern Burkina Faso are especially dangerous right now.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays and during large events.

• Demonstrations occur throughout Burkina Faso and can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Although some are planned and peaceful, demonstrations can occur spontaneously and turn violent. The majority of these are contained by security forces.
• Americans should avoid street demonstrations and stay aware of their surroundings.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Petty theft occurs in large market areas. Armed gangs commit opportunistic crimes in Ouagadougou and near residential areas.

• Violent demonstrations, looting, burning of buildings, and roadblocks often take place during periods of civil unrest and conflict. 
• Armed groups sometimes set checkpoints outside of urban areas to seek bribes.
• Criminal or terrorist groups have kidnapped Westerners in Burkina Faso. Extortion and kidnapping for ransom are significant sources of financing for violent terrorist groups.
• Criminal traffickers of all kinds are present throughout the Sahel. They may respond violently if encountered.
• Violent crimes are frequent. Americans should always stay alert.
• There has been a recent uptick in violent crime such as armed robbery, armed carjacking, and assault in Ouagadougou.
• There are sporadic reports of nighttime robberies occurring on the roads outside of the capital. Do not drive at night.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in Burkina Faso. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers often pretend to be Americans in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Burkina Faso:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person.
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 17 for police emergencies or 25-30-63-83 or 25-30-71-00.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.
• For consular services for crime victims, please contact the U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

The U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices.

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target Americans.
• Drones, satellite phones, or other technology may be illegal or restricted.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place:

• Tourists participate in activities at their own risk.
• Emergency response and medical treatment are not readily available.
• Americans are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Review our information on Travel Insurance.
• Adventure travel review the CDC tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• Americans must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be arrested, imprisoned, or deported.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Burkina Faso, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Passport identification

• Local law requires you to always carry your passport. Not having it can lead to detention or a fine.

Drugs

• There are severe penalties in Burkina Faso for drug possession, use, or trafficking. Offenders face long jail sentences and high fines.

Photography

• It is illegal to take photos of police or military sites, airports, or any government buildings. If you do, even by mistake, authorities may take your equipment and detain you. 
• Locals in Burkina Faso might be sensitive about photography, so it’s best to get their approval first.

Corruption

• At night, unexpected checkpoints often appear. Police or soldiers at these checkpoints might demand money.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to immediately notify the U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou.

Detention conditions

Burkina Faso’s constitution prohibits arbitrary arrest. It allows people to challenge their detention in court, but laws are inconsistently applied.

• Detainees often struggle to access quality, affordable legal services.
• Security forces and armed groups detain people without legal grounds, especially during security operations. Investigations can be slow and lead to long pretrial detentions. 
• The U.S. embassy may not be able to conduct regular prison visits or communicate with detainees, especially outside of Ouagadougou.
• Detainees must obtain their own food, medicine, and hygiene items.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or must surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.

Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Burkina Faso’s Persons and Family Code states that “any behavior likely to promote homosexual and similar practices is prohibited and punishable by imprisonment of 2 to 5 years and a fine of 2 to 10 million francs.”

• Same-sex civil unions or marriages are not recognized by the government, nor do gay and lesbian advocacy organizations receive official recognition by the government. 
• Societal discrimination is widespread. Gay individuals have experienced physical, psychological, and sexual violence. The public views this as corrective punishment and police frequently refuse to intervene.
• Most gay and lesbian individuals isolate themselves and keep their sexual identity hidden.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Burkina Faso prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities.
• Expect accessibility to be extremely limited or nonexistent in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure in all parts of the country.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

The law prohibits violence against women. However, domestic violence, including spousal abuse, is widely reported.

Sexual assault and domestic violence are common in Burkina Faso.

• Rape cases are rarely sent to trial. Police generally investigate reports of rape, but victims often do not file reports due to cultural barriers and fear of reprisal.
• The minimum age to marry without parental consent is 17 for females and 20 for males. However, child marriage is common.
• The law prohibits forced marriage. Polygyny is allowed, but a woman must agree to it prior to marriage.
• The law prohibits female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) in Burkina Faso.
• Review our information on Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

There have been credible reports of:

• unlawful or arbitrary killings
• torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment
• arbitrary arrest or detention
• serious abuses in a conflict
• serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom
• restrictions on religious freedom
• trafficking in persons, including forced labor, and existence of the worst forms of child labor
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Burkina Faso prior to traveling.
• Review our information for Journalist Travelers.

Health

Health resources

• CDC Burkina Faso Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism Information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 15 or 25-30-66-44 and 25-30-66-45 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• There are limited ambulance or emergency medical services in Burkina Faso.
• Injured or very ill travelers must secure their own transportation to the nearest major hospital.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• Medical care is not free in Burkina Faso. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. CDC provides more information on types of insurance. If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

The government of Burkina Faso requires a yellow fever vaccination for entry.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Medical facilities in Burkina Faso are extremely limited.

• Adequate medical treatment, as well as access to routine and emergency procedures, is often unavailable. Even minor health issues require medical evacuation.
• Public and private medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. Care is significantly below U.S. standards of medical care.
• Access to medicines, including antibiotics, can be limited.
• Most clinics only provide very basic services.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• The availability of medicine in local stores or pharmacies is very limited. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfers to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are extremely limited or non-existent.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Consider taking prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you and how to prevent illness. Review the CDC website for more information about malaria in Burkina Faso.
• Bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
• Review the Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Burkina Faso.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, has the wrong strength, or has dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine

Americans have had serious complications or died while getting care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Burkina Faso.

• We strongly recommend you avoid receiving local medical care or treatment outside of emergency situations. Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• Surrogacy is not officially allowed. There are no laws controlling this practice. You should talk to a specialized lawyer to understand the risks.
• If you are considering traveling to Burkina Faso to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is not safe to drink.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations in Burkina Faso.

• NASA’s Air Quality Forecast uses Artificial Intelligence (A.I.), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Burkina Faso.
• CDC’s Air Quality provides information about common air pollutants
• EPA’s AirNow provides information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance.
• Review our information on Medicine and Health.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Road conditions are extremely poor. Many roads in Burkina Faso are unpaved. Nighttime lighting along even major roadways is unreliable even in major cities. Watch for large potholes and rough roadways.

• Drivers often ignore traffic laws to find smoother sections of road.
• Outside of cities, armed groups sometimes set up surprise checkpoints. Police and security forces also often stop cars to check registration and see who is inside when people enter a city.
• Avoid driving at night.

Traffic laws

Exercise extreme caution when traveling by road.

• Don't travel on roads outside cities after dark. Kidnappers, terrorists, and robbers attack travelers on these roads. The roads have poor lighting and few other travelers.
• Burkina Faso has paved roads leading from Ouagadougou to most major cities.
• Use a 4-wheel drive vehicle with spare tires and emergency supplies. There is no roadside help available.
• Carry enough drinking water and food.
• Make sure your gas tank is always at least half-full. Gas stations are not widely available.
• If you are involved in a traffic accident, wait until the police arrive unless your health or safety is threatened. 
• Always carry travel documentation with you, including your passport and visa. Due to local law, you must always carry your passport. Failure to do so may lead to detention or a fine. 
• Burkina Faso’s formal security forces are professional when conducting routine public safety enforcement activities, especially within major cities like Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso. However, if you experience unprofessional conduct, or are asked to pay a bribe, report this to the authorities.
• At night, roads may be blocked by unexpected checkpoints where police or soldiers ask for money.
• Police can pull over drivers for using their phones or texting while driving. They do this to promote safe driving, even though no law specifically bans it.
• The driving culture is chaotic. Vehicles often fail to follow basic traffic laws.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Avoid using taxis and ride-shares.

Public and commercial transportation

• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.
• The city of Ouagadougou has a public transportation system, but these vehicles are often overcrowded and poorly maintained.
• Pickpocketing and purse snatching are common in public transportation.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Burkina Faso’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight.

• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Weather and natural disasters

Heavy rain and floods

• The rainy season in Burkina Faso lasts from late June until the end of October, with peak precipitation in August. It can cause severe flooding.
• Road travel outside the capital during rainy season is extremely limited.
• Flash floods and riverine floods are common during the rainy season. The frequency of flood events has increased, often causing dam failures and destroying homes and crops.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.