Travel Vaccines and Advice for Burkina Faso

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Burkina Faso. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Burkina Faso: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

There is a risk of yellow fever in Burkina Faso. All travelers over the age of nine months must be vaccinated. The country requires all travelers entering to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.

Burkina Faso is in the meningitis belt, a region known for carrying the disease. Meningitis vaccination is recommended for travelers especially between December and June.

Typhoid vaccination is recommended for most travelers to Burkina Faso. Individuals visiting friends or family or going to rural areas are at a higher risk and should receive immunization.

Travelers should take antimalarial medication before, during, and after their trip. Travelers should also take steps to avoid mosquito bites.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.

Burkina Faso has had cholera outbreaks in recent years. Vaccination is recommended for travelers, especially for aid workers and individuals heading to rural areas.

The best protection against cholera is through vaccination. Passport Health clinics offer the cholera vaccine. Book your cholera vaccination appointment today!

American travelers visiting Burkina Faso must have a valid passport and a visa to enter the country. All travelers must also show proof of yellow fever vaccination.

Burkina Faso Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Burkina Faso?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Burkina Faso and U.S. State Department

Some visa types can be obtained on arrival. But, it is best to have your travel documents in-hand before entering the country.

Burkina Faso is a country with a tropical climate that has two seasons: a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.

The temperature is hot and consistent all year, with an average temperature ranging from the mid-90s to over 100 degrees.

Ouagadougou is the capital and largest city in Burkina Faso with hot and dry weather throughout most of the year. Bobo-Dioulasso is the second-largest city in Burkina Faso and has a milder climate than Ouagadougou.

Banfora is a popular tourist destination known for its waterfalls and natural beauty and has similar weather patterns as Bobo-Dioulasso. Gorom-Gorom, located in the north of Burkina Faso, is hot and dry throughout most of the year and is a popular base for exploring the Sahel region.

It’s important to note that weather patterns may vary from year to year. Visitors should check the local weather forecast before traveling and pack appropriate clothing.

If you are planning to travel to Burkina Faso, there are some things you can do to stay safe.

It is important to research the country and check for any travel advisories. If possible, avoid traveling to high-risk areas, especially those near the borders with Mali and Niger. It is also important to stay in secure accommodations, like hotels with security personnel, and avoid traveling by road at night.

It’s a good idea to dress modestly and not draw attention to yourself by wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash. Be aware of your surroundings and follow local customs and laws. Always carry your passport and other important documents with you. You can also ask for advice from local authorities, like the police or hotel staff. Consider hiring a local guide to provide you with information on local customs, laws, and potential risks.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Burkina Faso.

Many tourists visit Banfora because of its beautiful natural attractions and outdoor activities. Visitors can see waterfalls called Karfiguela, climb the rock formations called Sindou Peaks, and explore volcanic rock formations called Domes of Fabedougou. They can also visit a freshwater lake called Lake Tengrela and go fishing.

Banfora has a lively market where visitors can buy traditional crafts and food. A nearby wildlife reserve called Nazinga is home to many different kinds of animals such as elephants and antelopes. Visitors can take a safari tour to observe them.

Banfora is a unique and beautiful place that offers a lot of fun things to do for tourists.

Burkina Faso is a beautiful country with much to offer visitors. But, it’s important you pack appropriately for your trip.

• Money Belt – Due to the crime levels in the country, a money belt will allow you to keep your money and passport safe.
• Plug Adapters – Burkina Faso uses the 2-pin French system for outlets.
• Water Bottle – It can get very hot and dry, so a water bottle is a must if traveling outside for long periods of time.
• Bug Repellent – There are plenty of mosquitoes in West Africa. Many mosquitoes carry diseases like malaria or yellow fever.

When traveling it is very helpful to find out exactly where the U.S. embassy or consulates are located. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.

U.S. Embassy Ouagadougou
Secteur 53, Ouaga 2000
Avenue Sembène Ousmane, Rue 15.873
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Phone: +(226) 25-49-53-00
E-mail: amembouaga@state.gov

Visit the Embassy to Burkina Faso website before departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!