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Flights to Burkina Faso

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Travel Safety Disclaimer

Last Updated: July 16, 2025

The security situation in Burkina Faso remains extremely dangerous and volatile. Most international governments, including the UK, Canada, the US, Ireland, and Australia, strongly advise their citizens against all travel to Burkina Faso due to significant threats of terrorism, kidnapping, and an unstable political climate.

There is a very high threat of terrorist attacks throughout the country, including the capital, Ouagadougou. Various terrorist groups, including affiliates of Al-Qaeda (JNIM) and Islamic State (ISGS), operate in Burkina Faso and frequently target civilians and security forces. Attacks can be indiscriminate and may occur in public places, transportation hubs, markets, hotels, and places of worship. Burkina Faso currently ranks as one of the most impacted countries globally by terrorism.

Both Islamist armed groups and state security forces/pro-government militias have been implicated in mass killings and human rights abuses against civilians. Large-scale attacks causing numerous fatalities are regularly reported across many regions.

If you do decide to visit, please exercise extreme caution and do not leave the safety zone surrounding Ouagadougou.

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Buy Flights to Burkina Faso and Pay Later

Splitting the cost of your flight to Burkina Faso with Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) can make your trip more manageable financially. Unlike paying upfront, BNPL allows you to split the cost of your flight tickets into smaller, more budget-friendly instalments.

Many plans offer interest-free payments within a specific timeframe - this can ease budgeting and potentially save your money compared to traditional financing options! Enjoy a stress-free travel experience to Burkina Faso with over 40 ways to pay. We work with payment providers such as Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna, Clearpay and PayPal.

Popular Airlines Flying to Burkina Faso

Here are the three favourite airlines flying to airports in Burkina Faso.

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Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines is Africa's largest airline and a member of the Star Alliance. It has consistently been awarded "Best Airline in Africa" by Skytrax for several years, including in 2025. Their hub in Addis Ababa (ADD) serves as a major gateway between Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

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Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines, the national flag carrier of Turkey, is a highly respected airline with a vast global network. They were recently awarded "Best Airline in Europe" for the tenth time at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards and ranked 6th globally.

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Brussels Airlines

Brussels Airlines, part of the Lufthansa Group, is Belgium's national airline and a member of Star Alliance. They have a strong focus on connecting Europe with various African destinations. While their overall Skytrax rating is 3-Star, they are still a reliable option for travel to Burkina Faso, offering connections via their hub in Brussels (BRU).

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Burkina Faso

Book Flights to Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso - a country untouched by the capitalism, globalisation and Westernisation of the outside world. This African country, surrounded by sprawling savannahs and the Sahara desert, is an interesting choice of destination if you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path travel experience.

To comfortably explore all of Burkina Faso's top attractions, visit during the rainy season (June to October). During this period, you'll want to go to W National Park, home to elephants, lions and cheetahs, as well as the Cascades de Banfora, a series of waterfalls that you can hike to and swim in! You might also want to learn about the Mossi people in Tiebele, a traditional Mossi village famous for its uniquely built mud houses.

Whatever you choose to see and do in Burkina Faso, we can get you there on a route that works best for you. At Alternative Airlines, we ticket over 600 global airlines and have over 40 payment methods available at checkout - booking flights to Burkina Faso couldn't be more convenient! Book flights with us today to popular destinations in Burkina Faso, including Bobo Dioulasso, Ouagadougou and Fada N'gourma.

Ouagadougou

Discover Ouagadougou

Burkina Faso's capital, Ouagadougou, was first founded in the 11th century by the Warba people. It was originally called 'Waghadougou', meaning 'place of horses' in the Dyula language. There's a variety of interesting things to see and do in Ouagadougou. The National Museum of Burkina Faso is located in the capital and houses a collection of artefacts that tell the story of the country's past, from when it was colonised by the French up until it gained its independence.

For a religious experience, head to the Grande Mosquée de Ouagadougou, built in the early 1900s and a beautiful example of Sudanese architecture. Before you leave the city, you should browse the souvenirs, handicrafts and local produce on sale at the Rood Wokooda Market.

Choosing when to visit Ouagadougou depends on your personal preferences.

  • April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 33 °C (91 °F), making some activities uncomfortable.
  • The coolest month is December with an average temperature of 23 °C (73 °F) - there is very little rainfall, making it ideal if you plan to do lots of sightseeing while you're visiting the city.

Ouagadougou can be reached via Ouagadougou Airport, served by major global airlines like Ethiopian, Air France and Royal Air Maroc. If you can't find a direct route to the capital, connections will be available to book on our platform.

It is crucial to reiterate that all major international governments (UK, US, Canada, Australia, Ireland, etc.) advise against all travel to Burkina Faso due to extremely high risks of terrorism, kidnapping, and political instability. Even in the capital, Ouagadougou, the risk is significant, and attacks have occurred in areas frequented by foreigners.

Things to do in Burkina Faso

Thinking of visiting Burkina Faso but unsure where to start? Here are some great activities to include in your trip!

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Visiting the Artisanal Markets

These are contained environments where local crafts are sold. They are typically busy during the day, which can offer some level of "safety in numbers" during daylight hours. Browse and purchase traditional Burkinabé crafts, including textiles, leather goods, wooden sculptures, and jewellery. It's a good way to interact with local artisans and appreciate the country's cultural heritage.

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Exploring the Cathédrale de l'Immaculée Conception

This is a prominent landmark and a place of worship. Visits during active service hours or during daylight can offer a degree of visibility. Admire the unique mud-brick architecture of this large cathedral, which stands as a significant religious and historical site in the city. As with any public place, remain vigilant. Avoid large gatherings or protests nearby. Respect local customs and dress codes.

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Dining at Established Restaurants or Hotels with Security in Ouagadougou

Well-known restaurants and hotels in the capital often have their own security measures, including guards and controlled access. They are more likely to be frequented by international visitors and thus might have a higher degree of awareness. Enjoy Burkinabé cuisine (like , brochettes, or riz gras) or international dishes in a more controlled setting. Some places may offer live music or cultural performances.

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Looking to Book Cheap Flights to Burkina Faso?

If you are searching for affordable flights to Burkina Faso, then Alternative Airlines is the place to be! We offer a variety of methods to make your money go further when you travel:


Payment plans

We are proud to partner with some payment providers which allow you to split the cost of your flights into more manageable payments. Whether you are flying economy on an ultra-low-cost carrier or first class with a premium airline, you can find a plan that suits your needs.


Flying with affordable airlines

Looking to snag a bargain to your favourite destination? The best place to start looking is to identify low-cost airlines that can get you there on the cheap. They will charge extra for baggage and other bonuses you would get for free with a full carrier, but if you are fine travelling light and basic, you'll save yourself a lot of money.


Cheapest day to fly

Knowing when to fly can also contribute to cheaper tickets. We have written a guide for you to be able to identify the right time for you, backed up by real data and expert sources. Read our blog for the trade secrets on the cheapest days to buy flights to find out more.


Best fare finder

Still bargain hunting? Well, we've cooked up a secret weapon. Our best fare-finder tool allows you to easily and quickly compare all of the flight prices for the week surrounding your original search and find the most affordable flight.

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Burkina Faso Travel Tips

1. Prioritise Professional Security and Secure Logistics:

In Burkina Faso's high-risk environment, ensuring your safety hinges on robust security measures. This means choosing hotels with enhanced security, arranging all transportation through trusted and experienced providers, and potentially hiring professional security for movements, especially outside the capital. Always travel during daylight hours, vary your routines, and have reliable communication to mitigate risks.

2. Maintain Extreme Situational Awareness and Low Profile:

Constant vigilance is crucial. Be acutely aware of your surroundings, avoid any displays of wealth, and dress discreetly to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Stay continuously updated on local news and security alerts, and critically, avoid all public gatherings, demonstrations, or areas of heightened security presence, as these can quickly become dangerous.

3. Comprehensive, High-Risk Travel Insurance (with Kidnap & Ransom Coverage):

Standard travel insurance is unlikely to cover travel against advisories, so secure a specialised "high-risk" policy that includes extensive medical evacuation coverage. Given the severe kidnapping threat, also strongly consider a Kidnap & Ransom (K&R) policy to provide professional crisis response and financial support in such an event. Be prepared for upfront cash payments for services.

4. Have a Detailed, Independent Emergency and Evacuation Plan:

Do not expect significant assistance from your home government in a crisis, as their capacity in Burkina Faso is limited. Develop a clear, independent evacuation plan, including alternative routes and contacts for commercial or private charters, should commercial options cease. Ensure family or friends back home know your itinerary and have access to emergency contacts, and always carry copies of vital documents.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What language do they speak in Burkina Faso?

Burkina Faso is a highly multilingual country with an estimated 70 languages spoken, about 66 of which are indigenous. Until recently, French was the official language due to its colonial past. However, in January 2024, Burkina Faso ratified a constitutional amendment changing the status of French to a "working language," alongside English. This move was made to elevate the country's national languages.

The most widely spoken indigenous language, and the de facto lingua franca for many, is Mooré (or Mossi), spoken by roughly 50% of the population, primarily in the central region around the capital, Ouagadougou. Other official national languages now include Bissa, Dyula (also known as Jula or Dioula), and Fula (or Fulfulde/Peul). Dyula is particularly important as a trade language in the west.

Why is Burkina Faso dangerous?

Burkina Faso is currently one of the most dangerous countries in the world, with a "Do Not Travel" advisory from most international governments. The danger stems from an array of things, including:

Active Terrorist Groups: The country is plagued by various extremist groups, primarily affiliates of Al-Qaeda (Jama'a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin - JNIM) and Islamic State (Islamic State in the Greater Sahara - ISGS). These groups control or contest significant portions of the country, particularly in the north, east, and along borders with Mali and Niger.

Frequent Attacks: Attacks are frequent and indiscriminate, targeting civilians, security forces, government buildings, schools, churches, markets, and transport hubs. They use ambushes, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and direct assaults. Burkina Faso has been ranked as the country most impacted by terrorism globally.

What currency is used in Burkina Faso, and can I use credit cards?

The currency used is the West African CFA Franc (XOF), which is pegged to the Euro (€1 = 655.957 XOF). While credit cards may be accepted in major hotels and some larger businesses in Ouagadougou, cash is king in most places, especially outside the capital. It's advisable to carry sufficient local currency.

What vaccinations are required or recommended for Burkina Faso?

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry. Highly recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Cholera, Rabies, and Meningitis. Malaria is prevalent year-round, so antimalarial medication and mosquito bite prevention are essential. Consult a travel health professional well before any planned travel. Learn more about vaccinations.