Getting Around Burkina Faso

Air

Borgo, 16km (10 miles) from Bobo Dioulasso, is the principal domestic airport. Air Burkina (www.air-burkina.com) runs flights between Bobo Dioulasso and Ouagadougou. Charter jets are also available.

Road

Side of the road

Road Quality

The quality of roads is improving, thanks to investment in the road network in recent years. The major routes are paved, but smaller roads may be unpaved and rutted, requiring a 4-wheel drive vehicle. It is inadvisable to drive at night, as there are few street lights and some vehicles do not have headlights.

Car Hire

Available from hotels and at the airport in Ouagadougou. As the quality of hire cars is variable, it's worth leasing cars for a day or two initially before committing yourself to a longer contract. Chauffeur-driven cars are also available.

Taxi

Shared taxis are available in major centres; fares are negotiable.

Documentation

A valid national driving licence.

Rail

There is a limited service from Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso (around three times a week each way). Two classes are available, but can become overcrowded.