Burkina Faso: Travel guide, visas and free housing · 2026

Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in West Africa. It is bordered by Mali to the northwest, Niger to the northeast, Benin to the southeast, Togo and Ghana to the south, and Ivory Coast to the southwest.

Burkina Faso · CC BY-SA 4.0

Map of places

EntryPick a passportThe answer depends on the passport.

Places on the map20

Exchange rateF CFA 585.95per 1 $XOF — the local currencyas of Nov 2, 2026

Safety and health

Safety · official adviceour data as of Nov 3, 2026

UK Foreign Office (FCDO)Avoid all travelThe whole country is off limits.

Full text

New information about the death penalty in Burkina Faso (‘Safety and security’ page).

Source: UK FCDO Foreign Travel Advice

US State DepartmentLevel 4The authority advises against travel altogether.

crime
kidnapping
terrorism
health risks

Full text

Do not travel to Burkina Faso for any reason due to crime , kidnapping , terrorism , and health . Do not travel to Burkina Faso for any reason. U.S. government employee travel restrictions U.S. government employees working in Burkina Faso are not allowed to travel outside of Ouagadougou due to safety risks.

Source: US Department of State Travel Advisory

Source: UK FCDO Foreign Travel Advice · US Department of State Travel Advisory

Burkina Faso: Travel guide, visas and free housing · 2026

Cities to start with10

Highlights of the country

Cities of the country

Visa and practicalities

Safety and health