Burkina Faso

The security situation across Burkina Faso is dangerous and volatile, and there's an ongoing and very high threat of terrorist attacks and kidnapping.

Terrorists and other armed groups regularly conduct attacks targeting security forces, civilians and foreign interests. These groups have fuelled inter-community tensions in the area, resulting in regular ethnic group clashes. There are ongoing military operations throughout the country. 

If you're in Burkina Faso, despite our advice, you should consider leaving by commercial means if it's safe to do so.

Further attacks are very likely, including in the capital Ouagadougou. Attacks can occur in places visited by foreigners, including:

• airports, public transport and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels
• hospitals
• places of worship
• mining operations
• embassies and government buildings, including schools
• security installations and areas frequented by security forces

If, despite our advice, you travel to Burkina Faso, stay alert to protect yourself from terrorism:

• get professional security advice
• use effective personal security measures
• be alert to possible threats in public places
• avoid all large gatherings, including festivals, large sporting events and any public demonstrations or protests
• report suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the media for threats, curfews, and other restrictions
• take official warnings seriously
• follow advice from local authorities
• register for security alerts from the US Embassy in Burkina Faso and the Canadian Embassy in Burkina Faso
• be ready to leave the country at short notice

Have an exit plan ready if you must go to a place that is a possible target.

If an attack occurs, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

Kidnapping by terrorist groups is a very high risk across Burkina Faso. 

Several foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped in Burkina Faso. Active terrorist groups maintain the intent and capability to kidnap foreigners.  

The kidnapping risk of foreign nationals in southern Burkina Faso is increasing. Foreign nationals and foreign interests, including mining operations, may be targeted. 

Possible targets include: 

• foreign mining interests 
• aid workers 
• long-term residents of Burkina Faso 
• foreign nationals 

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.  

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:  

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings  
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk  
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures  
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone  
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location   
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs  
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours  
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone  

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. 

Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.

More information:  

• Kidnapping 

Two coups d’état occurred in Burkina Faso in 2022. A transitional government assumed control following the second coup d’état in September 2022. The situation remains unstable and could deteriorate rapidly. Following the military takeover in neighbouring Niger in July 2023, there's a heightened risk of increased instability in Burkina Faso. Monitor security alerts from the US Embassy in Burkina Faso and the Canadian Embassy in Burkina Faso.

A state of emergency is in place in the following 8 regions: Centre-Est, Est, Centre Nord, Nord, Boucle du Mouhoun, Sahel, Hauts-Bassins and Cascades. Local authorities periodically declare a state of emergency in various regions due to terrorism threats. The measure gives security forces extra powers to conduct searches, restrict freedom of movement and detain persons of interest. Some civil rights may be suspended, including the right to protest and to hold large meetings.

If, despite our advice, you travel to a region where a state of emergency is in effect:

• be aware that you may be subject to searches by security forces
• always cooperate with military and police officers
• carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints
• allow extra time to reach your destination
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation

Maintain a stock of supplies, including food, water, fuel, and medical supplies, in case you need to shelter in place.

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Demonstrations may occur throughout Burkina Faso with little or no warning. Expect roadblocks or groups of large demonstrators in central Ouagadougou and the surrounding area. Avoid large gatherings, particularly in the lead-up to, during and in the aftermath of key dates in your location, monitor media and follow the advice of local authorities.

To reduce your risk during periods of unrest:

• avoid rallies, protests and crowds
• monitor the media for possible unrest
• avoid affected areas
• follow advice from local authorities

If a protest happens near you, leave the area as soon as it's safe. 

Maintain a stock of supplies, including food, water, fuel, and medical supplies, in case you need to shelter in place.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime

Crime can occur across the country. Attacks can happen anywhere. Foreigners may be targeted. Be mindful of your surroundings and personal security.

Purse snatchings and muggings are common, especially in Bobo Dioulasso and Ouagadougou.

Thefts are sometimes committed by one or two people on a motorbike.

Security risks increase at night.

Take sensible precautions. Don't carry valuables in public places or walk alone at night.

Violent crime

Armed roadside banditry is a problem across the country. Buses and other vehicles are targeted, especially on main and secondary roads connecting major cities within Burkina Faso and nearby countries. Armed thieves use roadblocks to stop vehicles and may open fire. Some thieves use spotters to identify victims at roadhouses and checkpoints. 

Criminals in urban areas may carry a knife or sharp weapon to cut the straps on bags, purses, or backpacks and can become violent if the victim resists. 

Residential thefts/home invasions occur occasionally in the Ouagadougou expatriate community and in other parts of Ouagadougou. Thieves enter residences at night. Most perpetrators exploit an unlocked door or window. To reduce your risk of crime:

• avoid travelling alone or after dark
• pay close attention to your personal security, particularly in crowds
• keep your car windows and doors locked, even when you're moving
• drive in a convoy outside of urban areas
• don't visit banks or use ATMs alone
• only use ATMs in banks, hotels and other buildings with security

More information:

• Preventing muggings and robberies

Scams and fraud

Internet fraud is common and often starts in West African countries. People have lost money to internet scams.

Internet scams may present to you as romances, friendships, or business and employment opportunities. These scams usually start via internet dating sites or chat rooms.

Victims have also travelled to West African countries to meet a friend or someone they intend to marry that they have met online or to get back money. They've been at risk of kidnapping, assault and robbery. Some victims have been killed.

Criminals might:

• ask you to send money so they can travel to Australia to meet you
• ask for details of a bank account overseas to transfer large amounts of money as a donation or for a percentage
• provide fake cashier cheques for urgent shipments of large quantities of goods
• ask for large fees for a fake government contract
• steal money from people they have invited to Africa for a business opportunity

To protect yourself from scams:

• be wary of online contact from people you don't know
• don't send money to anyone until you've thoroughly checked them

If you're the victim of a scam, get legal advice. Don't travel to Burkina Faso to get your money back or to get revenge. You could be in danger.

Cyber Security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been detained for their comments on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Also be aware of the materials you carry on your electronic devices.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Flooding

Flooding may occur in the wet season from June to October. Floods can close roads.

Severe weather can affect your travel. Monitor local media for up-to-date information.

If, despite our advice, you travel to Burkina Faso and you're visiting an area affected by severe weather:

• confirm your plans with your tour operator or travel provider
• ask your tour operator if services have been affected

In the event of flooding and severe weather, follow the advice of local authorities.

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to take medication, check if it's legal in Burkina Faso. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is common in Burkina Faso. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Malaria, dengue and other insect-borne diseases are common.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use treated mosquito nets
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothes
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

HIV/AIDS

The rate of HIV/AIDS infection is high. Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic, and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)
• cholera
• hepatitis
• meningococcal disease
• measles
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur. Follow the advice of local authorities if there is an infectious disease outbreak.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities are poor, and emergency services are very limited, particularly outside Ouagadougou.

Local health services may have difficulty responding to outbreaks of infectious disease.

You may need to pay cash up-front before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be moved to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation is likely and can be very expensive. Ensure this is covered by your travel insurance.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling. Burkina Faso authorities may define certain behaviours and activities as criminal that would not be considered as such in Australia. Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention or harsh enforcement of local laws for unintentionally breaking the law. 

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs are severe. You could receive a heavy fine or a long jail sentence.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

It's illegal to take photos of military zones, assets or personnel.

It's also illegal to export art without approval from the Ministry of Culture. This can include:

• old or traditional artisan works
• all old material of national cultural significance

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas.

If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Burkina Faso recognises dual nationality.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Burkina Faso has conservative standards of dress and behaviour.

Same-sex relationships are legal, but locals are often intolerant of them.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, ask for local advice.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

If, despite our advice, you travel to Burkina Faso, be aware that borders may close at short notice.

Visitor visas 

If, despite our advice, you travel to Burkina Faso, be aware that entry and exit requirements can change at short notice.

Measures may be introduced without notice. Follow the advice of local authorities. Keep in contact with family and friends so they know you're safe and well.

Contact an embassy or consulate of Burkina Faso for details about visas, currency and customs.

The Australian High Commission in Accra has very limited capacity to provide consular assistance in West Africa. 

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Burkina Faso. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 253KB)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport isn't valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government doesn't set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information: 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the West African Franc (CFA Franc, or XOF).

Declare all foreign currency and CFA on arrival.

Access to money

It's hard to exchange Australian dollars in Burkina Faso.

You can exchange US dollars and euros at commercial banks and exchange bureaus in major centres.

Some large hotels and restaurants in Ouagadougou accept credit cards.

Few businesses outside of the capital accept credit cards. There are few ATMs outside major cities.

Plan ahead and have enough cash to meet your needs. Contact your bank to make sure you can use your cards.

To drive in Burkina Faso, you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Apart from the national highways, most roads are in poor condition and poorly lit.

Many vehicles are also in poor condition.

Driving outside Ouagadougou at night is dangerous. Vehicles don't always use or have headlights. Livestock can stray onto roads.

Armed thieves target vehicles across the country. See Safety.

If you plan to drive:

• check your insurance covers you for driving
• learn about local traffic laws and practices
• carry enough fuel and drinking water

To reduce your risks:

• don't drive at night
• keep car windows up and doors locked, even when moving
• don't leave marked roads

If you travel outside Ouagadougou:

• get local advice on road and security conditions
• leave details of your travel plans with someone
• travel in a convoy
• carry a first aid kit and multiple ways to communicate

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Make sure your travel insurance covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use registered taxis and limousines. It's best to book them through your hotel.

Public transport

Don't use public transport due to safety concerns and the risk of crime. Many public buses are poorly maintained, and serious accidents occur.

If you do use public transport despite our advice, protect your belongings, especially during overnight travel.

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Burkina Faso's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 1010.

Medical emergencies

Call 1010 or go to the hospital.

Police

Call 1010 or go to the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Burkina Faso.

You can access consular help from the Canadian Embassy in Ouagadougou. It can issue provisional travel documents. The Embassy of Canada in Ouagadougou is closed for in-person appointments due to security reasons. For consular assistance, please contact the Embassy by phone or email.

You can also get consular help from the Australian High Commission in Ghana. Subscribe to this travel advice to get the latest updates directly. 

Monitor for security alerts from the US Embassy in Burkina Faso and the Canadian Embassy in Burkina Faso.

Canadian Embassy, Ouagadougou

316 Professeur Joseph Kizerbo Ave
Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso

Phone: (+226 25) 49 08 00
Email: ouaga@international.gc.ca
Website: https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/burkina_faso/index.aspx?lang=eng

Australian High Commission, Accra

2, Second Rangoon Close
(cnr Josef Broz Tito Ave)
Cantonments
Accra, Ghana

Phone: +233 302 216 400
Email: Accrahc.Enquiries@dfat.gov.au
Website: ghana.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australian High Commission, Ghana
X: @AusAmbGHA

The Australian High Commission in Accra currently has very limited capacity to provide consular assistance in West Africa, except in Ghana. 

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia