Burkina Faso Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders must apply for a visa at a Burkina Faso embassy or consulate before traveling.
Spanish citizens require a visa to enter Burkina Faso. Due to serious security concerns, most governments advise against travel to Burkina Faso. If traveling is essential, obtain a visa from the embassy and check current advisories.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, visa obtained in advance, yellow fever vaccination certificate, return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Fines and potential detention.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis, Meningitis, Rabies
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Burkina Faso faces severe security challenges including terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, and civil unrest. Most governments advise against all travel. The northern and eastern regions are particularly dangerous with frequent attacks. Even Ouagadougou has experienced deadly attacks. If travel is absolutely essential, use extreme caution and professional security.
Money & Costs
Currency
CFA West African CFA Franc (XOF)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $30 · Mid: $60 · Luxury: $120+
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, E, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
17 (Police), 18 (Fire), 112 (Emergency)
Getting There
Main Airports
Bobo-Dioulasso (BOY) · Ouagadougou (OUA)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
If traveling to Burkina Faso, the best time is from November to February during the cooler dry season. Temperatures are extreme from March to May (up to 45°C). The rainy season (June-October) brings humidity and difficult road conditions. However, due to ongoing security issues, most governments advise against all travel.
Cultural Notes
Burkina Faso means "Land of Upright/Honest People" in Mossi and Dioula. The country has a rich cultural heritage with FESPACO (Pan-African Film Festival) being one of Africa's most important cultural events. Traditional music and dance, including the masks of the Bobo people, are significant. Before the security crisis, the country was known for its warm hospitality.
Insider Tips
French is the official language. The West African CFA franc is the currency. Due to security concerns, normal tourism has largely ceased. If travel is essential, maintain a low profile, avoid travel outside cities, and have evacuation plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel to Burkina Faso?
No, most governments strongly advise against all travel to Burkina Faso due to severe security risks including terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The situation has deteriorated significantly with frequent attacks on civilians, security forces, and foreigners. If travel is absolutely essential, consult your embassy and use professional security services.
What is FESPACO?
FESPACO (Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou) is the largest African film festival, held biennially since 1969. It showcases films from across the continent and has been crucial in promoting African cinema globally. Before the security crisis, it attracted thousands of filmmakers and visitors. The festival continues to operate despite challenges.
What was tourism like in Burkina Faso before the crisis?
Before the security crisis, Burkina Faso offered unique cultural experiences including the Ruins of Loropéni (UNESCO site), traditional mask ceremonies of the Bobo people, the Nazinga Game Ranch, and the vibrant capital Ouagadougou with its crafts markets. The country was known for its friendly people and rich cultural festivals.
What languages are spoken in Burkina Faso?
French is the official language of Burkina Faso. Moore (Mossi) is the most widely spoken indigenous language, used by about half the population. Other languages include Dioula (a trading language), Fulfulde, and numerous ethnic languages. French is essential for business and official matters.
What happened to cause the security crisis in Burkina Faso?
Burkina Faso's security crisis escalated from 2015 when jihadist groups from Mali spread into the country. A 2022 military coup followed by another coup in 2022 destabilized the government. Armed groups including those linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS now control significant territory. The situation has displaced over two million people internally.