Banfora - Discovering Burkina Faso

Travelling to Banfora

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Banfora, a pretty good destination in Burkina Faso (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Banfora and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Banfora, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Burkina Faso, here's everything to know about Banfora for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Banfora

Banfora is a city located in southwestern Burkina Faso, known for its beautiful landscape, including waterfalls, caves, and lakes. It is also known for its diverse cultural heritage, including the traditional masks and crafts of the local Bobo and Gurunsi tribes. Agriculture is an important industry in Banfora, with crops like bananas, mangos, and cotton being grown in the surrounding areas. The city is easily accessible by road and has a small airport with flights to other parts of Burkina Faso.

What to visit in Banfora

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Banfora, Burkina Faso: 1. Karfiguéla Waterfalls: This beautiful waterfall is located about 10 kilometers northwest of Banfora. It's a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and hiking. The waterfall drops about 60 meters into a refreshing natural pool.
2. Les Cascades de Banfora: This is a series of three waterfalls on the Gounou River, located about 7 kilometers from the city. The tallest of the three falls is around 20 meters high, and you can swim in the natural pools at the base of the falls.
3. Lake Tengrela: This lake is located about 15 kilometers north of Banfora, and it's known for its hippos and birdlife. You can take a guided boat tour to see the hippos up close.
4. Domes de Fabedougou: This is a rocky outcropping located about 15 kilometers northeast of Banfora. The domes are made up of sandstone and are an interesting geological formation.
5. Sindou Peaks: These jagged rock formations are located about 25 kilometers northeast of Banfora. They rise up out of the surrounding countryside and are a stunning sight against a blue sky.
6. La Guinguette: This is a popular restaurant and bar located on the shores of Lake Tengrela. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy a drink while taking in the view.
Note that some of these attractions may require a guide or a permit to enter. It's best to check with a reputable tour company before visiting.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Burkina Faso, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Banfora.

When to go on holiday to Banfora

The best time to visit Banfora in Burkina Faso depends on your preferences and travel plans. However, the peak travel season is from November to February when the weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region's natural attractions. The rainy season in Banfora runs from June to September, and during this period, you may experience heavy rainfall, making it difficult to navigate the area. So, if you want to avoid the rains, it is best to visit during the dry season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Banfora

To get to Banfora in Burkina Faso, there are several options depending on your starting point. By Air: The nearest airport to Banfora is the Bobo Dioulasso International Airport, located about 85 km away. Several airlines operate flights to this airport from cities such as Ouagadougou, Abidjan, and Lome. From Bobo Dioulasso, you can take a taxi or bus to Banfora.
By Road: If you are coming from Ouagadougou, you can take a bus or taxi to Banfora, which is about 400 km away. The journey takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the mode of transportation and traffic. If you are coming from neighboring countries like Cote d'Ivoire or Mali, you can take a bus to Bobo Dioulasso and then take a taxi or bus to Banfora. It is always advisable to check with reputable travel companies or transport operators for the latest schedules and availability.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Banfora, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Banfora

Sure, here are some typical foods of Banfora in Burkina Faso and a brief description for each: 1. Toh (Sorghum porridge): A thick, filling porridge made from sorghum flour and water or milk. It's a staple food in Banfora and served as a breakfast or lunch dish.
2. Tô zèguèré (Sorghum and bean soup): A hearty soup made with sorghum grains, beans, vegetables, and spices. It's a common dish for lunch or dinner and often served with bread.
3. Poulet bicyclette (Bicycle chicken): A popular dish made with free-range chickens, grilled over an open flame to perfection. It's usually served with veggies and rice or fries.
4. Soumbala (Fermented locust beans): A traditional ingredient used to add a unique flavor to sauces and stews. It's made by fermenting locust beans for several days, which gives it a strong aroma.
5. Riz gras (Fatty rice): A one-pot rice dish with veggies, meat, and spices, cooked in oil or butter. It's a flavorful and filling dish that's often served at celebrations and gatherings.
6. Gombo sauce (Okra sauce): A thick, tangy sauce made with okra, tomatoes, onion, and spices. It's usually served with rice or tô and is a vegetarian-friendly option.
7. Fonio (Ancient grain porridge): A gluten-free porridge made from fonio grains, similar to couscous but with a nutty taste. It's often served as a breakfast dish with milk or as a side dish for meat or stews.
I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or need more information.
You can find general info about typical foods in Burkina Faso here.

Is Banfora an expensive destination for tourists?

Banfora, Burkina Faso is not considered an expensive destination for tourists. The cost of living in Burkina Faso is relatively low, and thus, travel expenses are generally affordable. The local currency is West African CFA franc (XOF) and the exchange rate is around 590 XOF for 1 USD. Accommodation options in Banfora range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury lodges, and prices can vary depending on the level of comfort desired. Food and transportation are also reasonably priced.
However, it is important to note that the cost of some activities, such as safaris and tours, may be more expensive. It is recommended to research and compare prices before making any bookings.

Where to find accomodation in Banfora

Banfora is a city located in the southwestern region of Burkina Faso, known for its natural attractions such as waterfalls, lakes, and wildlife. The best areas to find accommodation in Banfora would be near the tourist attractions, which include the Banfora Cascades, Tengrela Lake, and Sindou Peaks. You can also find a variety of lodging options in the city center, which is close to restaurants, cafes, and shops. Additionally, there are accommodations available on the outskirts of Banfora, where you can enjoy a more rural and peaceful landscape.
You can check hotel prices at Banfora here:
Booking.com

Is Banfora a safe destination for tourists?

Banfora is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping your valuables secure, and staying informed about any local safety concerns. It is also a good idea to check the current travel advisories issued by your own government before planning a trip to Banfora.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Burkina Faso here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Banfora.

What type of travelers will enjoy Banfora the most?

Banfora is ideal for travelers who want to experience natural beauty, outdoor activities and cultural immersion. It is a great destination for families and couples looking for a relaxing and peaceful getaway. Young people can also enjoy the activities such as hiking, swimming and exploring the local markets. Some of the top attractions in Banfora include the Karfiguela Falls, the Sindou Peaks, and the Tengréla Lake. Visitors can also go on a safari to see wildlife and experience the local culture by visiting traditional villages and markets.

How to get around Banfora

The most commonly used transportation in Banfora, Burkina Faso includes motorcycle taxis, known locally as "motos", and bicycle taxis, known as "vélos". Buses and private cars are also available, but they are less common.

What to see around Banfora

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Banfora. Here are some suggestions: 1. Karfiguéla Waterfalls - located around 11 kilometers from Banfora, this is a picturesque waterfall and a popular spot for tourists.
2. Dômes de Fabedougou - It is considered one of the most beautiful tourist sites in Burkina Faso, with a unique natural landscape of rocky formations and domes in the heart of the karstic plateau of Banfora.
3. Sindou Peaks - The Sindou Peaks are a series of magnificent sandstone rock formations located about 40 km from Banfora.
4. Lake Tengrela - Tengrela Lake, sometimes called the "Savannah Sea", is a freshwater lake located about 50 km from Banfora.
5. Léraba District - The Léraba District is a natural park located in south-western Burkina Faso, about 30 kilometers from Banfora.
6. Banfora Market - At the local market in Banfora, you can buy fresh food, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. 7. Laongo Sculpture Symposium - about an hour's drive from Banfora, this is an outdoor museum showcasing sculptures created by local and international artists.
These are just a few examples of places to visit in a day trip from Banfora. Depending on your interests and time, there are many more places to explore in the area.
For every travel information about Burkina Faso you can click here.

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