Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso, a hub of Africa’s filmmaking scene, boasts a diverse artistic community, museums and a landscape that will satisfy anyone with an interest in West African history and culture.

Home of the Mossi people, late in the 19th century the French claimed what is now Burkina Faso and called it Upper Volta. It gained independence in 1960. After a string of military takeovers and single-party rule, a coup in 1983 proved the turning point. The National Council for the Revolution under the presidency of Capt. Thomas Sankara took control and Upper Volta's name was changed to Burkina Faso, meaning ‘the country of honorable people’. A coup in 1987 claimed Sankara's life. Blaise Compaore led the coup remains in office. International observers say elections have been mixed in terms of the government’s commitment to fairness and democracy.

Burkina Faso is home to 14.3 million people and French is the official language, although other indigenous languages are spoken. Approximately half the population practices Islam, 10 percent follow Christianity and the other 40 percent adhere to indigenous beliefs. The people of Burkina Faso place heavy emphasis on visual art, song and dance. The Burkinabe are famous for their artwork as well as their skill with silk - making purses, clothing and other accessories.

Burkina Faso has three national parks. At the Nazinga Ranch, a game reserve just south of the capital, Ouagadougou, visitors can view elephants, monkeys, baboons and more. Southwest of Bobo-Dioulasso are the Karfiguela waterfalls. In the city of Bobo-Dioulasso itself a guide can take visitors through the Kibidwé where some of the town’s musicians live and perform.

There are direct flights from Paris or Brussels into Ouagadougou, although it is also possible to transit through Abidjan or Dakar. Crossing the border from a neighboring African country is fairly easy and cheap. Buses and vans run consistently through Ghana, Togo, Niger and Mali. Also available for navigating in, out and around the country are minibuses, vans and taxis. Renting a car is also a good option, as the roads are in fairly good condition.

There are several local resorts in Burkina Faso, but the Sofitel Ouagadougou Silmande Hotel has an outstanding reputation. This resort comes with a great selection in restaurants and bars and has two vibrant nightclubs. It also offers a golf course, horseback riding, tennis courts and a full-sized swimming pool complete with pool-side service.