https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-fasoBurkina Fasohttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/safety-and-security-burkina-fasoWhile Burkina Faso has its fair share of tension and unrest, it is also a country with welcoming people, stunning landscapes and amazing culture.2019-12-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/safety-and-security-burkina-fasohttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>For the few brave souls who do travel through West Africa, Burkina Faso has become a thoroughfare for overland travelers making their way from Mali to Ghana.</p> <p>Burkina Faso is a <a href="/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/burkina-faso-crime" target="_blank" title="Crime in Burkina Faso">destination you need to be cautious</a>, where the local security situation is crumbling, and there is no end in sight.</p> <p>The region of Western Africa has been a troubled spot for political tension for decades. Few can remember a peaceful time, and Burkina Faso is no different. While Burkina Faso has its fair share of tension and unrest, it is also a country with welcoming people, stunning landscapes and amazing culture.</p> <p>This is what you need to know about security and politics.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#burkina-faso's-political-tensions">Burkina Faso's political tensions</a></li> <li><a href="#terrorism-in-burkina-faso">Terrorism in Burkina Faso</a></li> <li><a href="#border-dangers-in-burkina-faso">Border dangers in Burkina Faso</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="burkina-faso's-political-tensions">Burkina Faso's political tensions</h2> <p>Burkina Faso's political tension is linked to political issues and government corruption. Protests occurred against the ruling party and upheavals involving the army generally set the tone of what violence may break out. Tensions have continued to heighten since a military coup by rebels associated with the now former president occurred in September 2015.</p> <p>A presidential election was then held in November 2015, with a new president Roch Marc Christian Kabore being elected. Subsequently, arrest warrants were issued for the former present Blaise Compoare due his involvement with the military coup.</p> <p>The nation's capital, Ouagadougou, remains relatively calm, but it's the smaller towns around the country that are an issue when we talk security.</p> <p>Soldiers and police have been known to go on violent rampages in the country's north.&nbsp;</p> <p>It's these common spates of violence, which concern most Western governments. The danger of tourists becoming embroiled in some Burkina Faso breakdown is very real. So be warned.</p> Political demonstrations are occurring more frequently. These gatherings are becoming increasingly violent, with shootings, lootings and other crimes commonplace. <p>It's not uncommon for protests to end in deaths, so if you are in Burkina it's best to keep well away from political marches or demonstrations, especially when it's the military which is demonstrating.</p> <p>With the security situation inside Burkina becoming less than appealing, a curfew has been put in place to try and protect the community.</p> <p>Best to stay inside between 7pm and 6am - it's for your own safety. The last thing any traveler wants is to get mixed up on the wrong side of a curfew in West Africa.</p> <h2 id="terrorism-in-burkina-faso">Terrorism in Burkina Faso</h2> <p>Terrorism is also a real issue plaguing the country. Kidnapping by terrorist groups and attacks are feared, with most consulates advising against traveling to certain regions.</p> <p>January 2016 saw a terrorist attack by Al-Qaeda linked gunmen on the Splendid Hotel in the capital, Ouagadougou which killed 30 people.</p> <p>Kidnapping remains a threat in the northern Sahel border areas of the country and terrorists are known to operate in the porous border regions of the north, near Mali and Niger.</p> <p>Several governments have gone as far as declaring the area north of Djibo to Dori and the city of Ouahigouya and surrounding area as off limits to all travelers.</p> <p>These terror groups usually have loose links with al-Qaeda associates, so best to stay away from northern areas and border areas with Niger and Mali. Be smart and you will be safe.</p> <h2 id="border-dangers-in-burkina-faso">Border dangers in Burkina Faso</h2> <p>Just a quick note to watch yourself if you are near the borders of Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast). Recent upheaval in the country has meant border areas have become havens for refugees and bandits.</p> <p>It is also recommended that you <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burkina-faso-travel-advisory.html" target="_blank" title="US State Department">Do Not Travel to regions bordering Mali and Niger</a>.</p> <p>Some foreign governments have issued 'Reconsider Your Need to Travel' and 'Do Not Travel' warnings for several parts of Burkina Faso, so please check with your Government's travel advice before traveling to Burkina Faso.</p> <p>Best to stay clear and enjoy Burkina Faso's interior.</p>Getty Images/Luis Dafos 1578342624 Getty Images House of the First Ancestor. Old town of Bobo-Dioulasso, Houet Province, south-western Burkina Fasohttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/burkina-faso-local-lawsLocal laws in Burkina Faso, from imports and exports to photocopying your passport, sex and the cash economy, this is what you need to know before you go.2019-12-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/burkina-faso-local-lawshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>From what you can and can't export to carrying photocopies of your passport, sex and the cash economy, this is what you need to know before you go to Burkina Faso.</p> <h2>Imports and exports</h2> <p>Burkina Faso is a&nbsp;common path for overland trucks and travelers in West Africa. <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/the-ethical-traveler-s-guide-to-souvenir-shopping" target="_blank" title="Ethical travel guide to souvenir shopping">Travelers love to take home souvenirs</a>, but be careful. Burkina Faso's authorities don't take kindly to precious things being removed from their country if they are important.</p> <p>Customs authorities enforce strict regulations on exports. Items like masks, religious materials and antiquities won't be released easily. So before you invest your money into a priceless bargain, make sure it's a legitimate sale.</p> <p>The Director of the National Museum has stated that all exportation of objects of art is subject to the prior approval of the Ministry of Culture.</p> <p>So do your research to make sure you aren't about to buy anything you can't take out of the country.</p> <h2>Carry copies of your passport</h2> <p>It's not unusual while traveling here to be asked to&nbsp;show your identification. Before handing over your passport or identification, make sure the people who are asking you are legitimate authorities.</p> <p>It's safest to take a photocopy of your passport with you to Burkina Faso, and keep it on you at all times with your visa information. Keep your real passport locked up safe in your accommodation.</p> <h2>Are cash or credit cards the way to go in Burkina Faso?</h2> <p>Burkina Faso is a cash economy, and credit cards aren't the best option for making payments.</p> <p>Credit cards are only accepted at high-end establishments in the capital, Ouagadougou. Take cash with you for street stalls and markets.</p> <p>Be prepared to carry a fair bit of cash around in Burkina Faso. ATMs aren't common beyond major cities, <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/burkina-faso/a/nar-gr/money-and-costs/355099" target="_blank" title="Lonely Planet">and if you want to exchange money, Euros are your best option</a>.</p> <p>Not all cards are accepted,&nbsp;so check before you go if your card will work with Burkina Faso's ATMs.</p> <h2>Photography laws in Burkina Faso</h2> <p>One old custom has recently been dissolved to the cheers of travelers. Tourists&nbsp;once had to get&nbsp;a photography permit to take pictures in Burkina Faso &ndash; and this was required for anyone traveling. To get one of these permits was a huge hassle.</p> <p>The tourist office&nbsp;got rid of the permits, but there are still buildings and areas you can't photograph, such as military or government buildings.</p> <h2>Is Burkina Faso safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?</h2> <p>Homosexuality is not illegal in Burkina Faso, however LGBTQ+&nbsp;people may face discrimination, and should be aware that only some discrimination laws are in place.&nbsp;Due to the mostly Muslim population, use your common sense safety instincts, and avoid overt public displays of affection.</p>Getty Images/Kypros 1638819344 Getty Images A mosque in Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Fasohttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/burkina-faso-getting-aroundBurkina Faso is limited with infrastructure and services. Here's everything you need to know about transport in Burkina Faso.2019-11-27T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/burkina-faso-getting-aroundhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Reliable public transport&nbsp;isn't easy to find here, which makes getting around the country challenging.&nbsp;</p> <p>Like elsewhere in West Africa, when you are trying to get around there are a number of risks to consider.</p> <h2>Exercise caution on Burkina Faso's roads</h2> <p>If you do decide to take on the roads of Burkina Faso, make sure you exercise extreme caution.</p> <p>Aside from the bad conditions your face when driving, bandits and thieves are a common threat for anyone traveling around. Keep your windows rolled up, doors locked, and never leave anything&nbsp;on the back seat of your car while it's parked.</p> <h2>Burkina Faso's road hazards</h2> <p>Several major urban and intercity roads are paved, but&nbsp;elsewhere across the country, paved roads are not easy to find.</p> <p>Despite being paved they are plagued by huge potholes and can be very narrow. Some of the so-called "potholes" are more like small craters, which will put a quick end to your road trip.</p> <p>Driving across Burkina Faso also requires special attention. Other drivers using the road can be extremely careless and it's not uncommon for head-on collisions.</p> <p>So stay alert and be ready for anything.</p> <p>And while other drivers will always add some problems on the road, there are various obstacles you'll need to watch out for.</p> <p>Broken-down vehicles are usually abandoned on the road. Roadside assistance doesn't exist, so be prepared to avoid cars just left in traffic.</p> <p>This sort of thing is common on rural roads. This coupled with poor conditions and stray livestock means roadways outside of the major cities can be a headache for any travelers.</p> <p>At night, there is a high volume of truck traffic passing through the country and pedestrians, bicycles, and carts pose a major hazard on unlit, unmarked roads.</p> <p>Do yourself a big favour, and when night does fall stay indoors. Night driving is advised against in most African countries.</p> <p>The best advice take your time and watch out.</p> <h2>Limited emergency services in Burkina Faso</h2> <p>Police are never too far away to enforce road rules in most developed countries. But&nbsp;in&nbsp;Burkina Faso, don't expect to see police out in force.</p> <p>Authorities rarely enforce traffic laws and are virtually absent from rural roads.</p> <p>This means if you get into trouble, you are quite possibly on your own.</p> <p>This goes for ambulance assistance as well. So don't rely on emergency services and help &ndash; you may be waiting a long time.</p>Getty Images/Luca Prestia 11074811546 Getty Images Dusty train tracks in Ouagadougou, Burkina Fasohttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/burkina-faso-crimeTraveling to Burkina Faso? This is what you need to know about safety: street crime, theft, scams and places to avoid.2019-12-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/burkina-faso-crimehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>So, is Burkina Faso safe? The very quick answer to that question is unfortunately no. Western Africa as a whole has never been known as a safe place to travel, but it does lure intrepid travelers each year with the promise of unexplored destinations and incredibly wild wilderness.</p> <p>Street crime, bandits and scams are&nbsp;common in Burkina Faso, and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2019/nov/20/un-warns-burkina-faso-could-become-another-syria-as-violence-soars" target="_blank" title="The Guardian">since 2015 the military have been struggling to contain Islamist violence</a>, which has taken over parts of the country. Since 2015, more than 700 lives have been lost due to this violence. Before you consider traveling here, read your Government's travel advisory for the latest on the security situation. The <a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/burkina-faso" target="_blank" title="SmartTraveller">Australian Government have listed Burkina Faso as 'Reconsider Your Need to Travel'</a>, and the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/burkina-faso-travel-advisory.html" target="_blank" title="US Department of State">US Department of State have listed Burkina Faso as 'Do Not Travel'</a>.</p> <h2>Street crime in Burkina Faso</h2> <p>Travelers moving through Burkina Faso will have to take care from simple crimes on the street.&nbsp;Foreigners are often the target of criminals operating around cities, so be prepared.</p> <p>Most crime reported involving tourists is purse snatchers, street scams &ndash; usually targeting wallets, jewelry, cell phones and cameras.</p> <p>Do yourself a favor, leave the expensive watch at home, don't carry a purse and watch your back at all times. Best to travel in a big group, you are less likely to be targeted.</p> <p>A common crime is a camera snatch, usually when a tourist has them dangling from their wrist. Be smart, keep them concealed, unless they are being used.</p> <p>Assaults and thefts occur, particularly in Bobo Dioulasso and the capital, Ouagadougou. Muggings are common around the central market and the United Nations traffic circle in Ouagadougou. Security risks increase after dark.</p> <p>Thieves are especially active during international meetings or events which draw large crowds to the capital.</p> <h2>Burkina Faso bandits</h2> <p>Incidents of highway banditry are on the decline across the country, but continue to occur sporadically.</p> <p>Although the bandits operate mostly at night, there have been daytime attacks. They have injured or killed individuals who refused their demands or attempted to drive through their roadblocks.</p> <p>A police officer was shot and killed in August 2010 while attempting to stop a robbery.</p> <p>Several attacks have been directed at intercity public buses, so if you can travel by convoy.</p> <p>A word of advice, if you do get held up, don't be a hero. These people usually don't mess around.</p> <h2>Financial scams in Burkina Faso</h2> <p>Scams are commonplace in West Africa, so be aware.</p> <p>Commercial and internet fraud is prevalent and often originates in West African countries. Victims have been defrauded and those who travel to the originating country have had their lives endangered.</p> <p>Criminals have been known to seek details of 'safe' bank accounts overseas in which to transfer large sums of money.</p> <p>If you are a victim of a financial scam, we advise you to obtain legal advice and not to travel to Africa to seek restitution as there is a risk of physical assault from the perpetrators.<br />Financial scams, sometimes involving fraudulent transactions for gold and/or antiquities are originating out of Burkina Faso. If you participate in these schemes you risk financial loss, or physical harm.</p>Getty Images/Olivier Jolly 1975192320 Getty Images Sunset in Burkina Faso, West Africahttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/burkina-faso-healthWhat you need to know about emergency medical care, common diseases, required immunisations, water-borne and food-borne illnesses in Burkina Faso.2015-07-01T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/western-africa/burkina-faso/burkina-faso-healthhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Be prepared for your trip to Burkina Faso with these tips on what types of health issues, insects and diseases you should be aware of, and what vaccinations you need before you go.</p> <p><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/health-and-fitness-before-you-go-traveling" target="_blank" title="Are you fit to travel?">Before you go, ask yourself: are you fit to travel?</a></p> <p>Falling ill in West Africa is&nbsp;not a pleasant experience, so&nbsp;do your research and come prepared with medications and expectations. Being over-prepared is always better when traveling in Burkina Faso.</p> <h2>Medical treatment in Burkina Faso</h2> <p>Whatever you do, taking risks in Burkina Faso isn't a good idea. Emergency health care is almost&nbsp;non-existent in some regions, and medical facilities are poor.</p> <p>The capital, Ouagadougou, does have ambulances and hospitals, but areas outside the main city are not the best equipped.</p> <p>Short supply of emergency health can leave you stranded when you need it most. And if they do get to you, ambulances in Burkina Faso are&nbsp;not up to the standard you'll find back home.</p> <p>You need to think carefully about the risks you are willing to take, and be aware of&nbsp;medical evacuation costs, which could add up to around US $100,000. Do your research to find <a href="/travel-insurance/" target="_blank" title="Travel Insurance from World Nomads">the right travel insurance product for you</a>.</p> <p>Access to mediciation is another dilemma in Burkina Faso. Similar to the ambulance situation, basic medical supplies aren&lsquo;t always available.</p> <p>The best advice is to pack what you need from home, and keep it in your day pack wherever you are going. You can never carry too much medicine or <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/essential-hiking-safety-kit" target="_blank" title="Hiking Packing List: What Should Be in Your Safety Kit?">simple first aid equipment</a>. Here are a few tips&nbsp;on <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/first-aid-kit" target="_blank" title="First aid kit">what to consider packing in your first aid kit before you go</a>.</p> <h2>Diseases in Burkina Faso</h2> <p>Burkina Faso is located in the African <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_meningitis_belt" target="_blank" title="Wikipedia">Meningitis belt</a>, and you need to take all disease risks very seriously. Visit a travel doctor a few months prior to your departure so you can get the right advice on which vaccinations and booster shots you need for Burkina Faso.</p> <p>The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for all travelers:</p> <ul> <li>Cholera</li> <li>Yellow fever</li> <li>Hepatitis A</li> <li>Hepatitis B</li> <li>Typhoid</li> <li>Chickenpox</li> <li>Shingles</li> <li>Pneumonia</li> <li>Influenza</li> <li>Rabies</li> <li>Meningitis</li> <li>Polio</li> <li>Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)</li> <li>Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis).</li> </ul> <h2>Meningitis</h2> <p>Meningitis is endemic in Burkina Faso, and cases are most frequent during the drier, dustier months of January through June. Travelers should confirm that their meningitis A, C, Y, W, 135 inoculations are up to date.</p> <p>For further information on meningitis and how to avoid it, check out this <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/travel-and-meningitis" target="_blank">guide</a>.</p> <h2>Malaria</h2> <p>Malaria is a risk in Burkina Faso. You should do your best to avoid mosquito bites by staying covered up at night and early mornings, and carry insect repellent wherever you go. Speak to your doctor about taking anti-malarial medication, as the risk is high here.</p> <p>Read <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/mosquitoes-and-bite-prevention" target="_blank">these tips</a> on preventing mosquito bites no matter where you are in the world.</p> <h2>Yellow fever</h2> <p>Yellow fever is transmitted during daylight hours by the Aedes mosquito. The vaccination against this disease lasts 10 years, and you must carry a vaccination certificate as it is required to enter Burkina Faso.</p> <p>Yellow fever exhibits flu-like symptoms and at worst, liver inflammation.</p> <h2>Tuberculosis</h2> <p>Another&nbsp;disease plaguing Burkina Faso is tuberculosis. This nasty disease may seem an ailment of the past, but it&lsquo;s alive and well in various regions across Africa.</p> <h2>Water-borne disease</h2> <p>Be aware of water-borne, food-borne, parasitic and other infectious diseases (including HIV/AIDS, cholera, yellow fever, hepatitis, bilharzia, measles and polio) in Burkina Faso. <a href="https://www.iamat.org/country/burkina-faso/food-and-water-safety" target="_blank" title="IAMAT">Avoid eating uncooked foods such as salads or fruits you cannot peel</a>.&nbsp;</p> <h2>Can I drink the water in Burkina Faso?</h2> <p>We'll give you the short&nbsp;short answer, no. It's crucial you treat all water&nbsp;before drinking while traveling around Burkina Faso to avoid contracting water-borne diseases. Pack water purification tablets, a water filtration system such as <a href="https://grayl.com/" target="_blank" title="Grayl">Grayl</a>, or boil all water for at least one minute before drinking (and then wait for it to cool down, of course).</p> <h3>Have you been to Burkina Faso? Share your travel health tips with us below!</h3>Getty Images/U.Ozel.Images 1458084077 Getty Images African women shopping grocery from a green grocer in the market place in Tanghin in Ouaga