Ouagadougou, the city is just as unique as its name. The center of art and culture in Burkina Faso promises a variety of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Visit the museums and monuments and witness the blend of French and African culture. Experience the diversity of people in their lifestyles and languages situated in such close proximity.

The ancient trade and popular Ouagadougou grand market invited tourists from all over the world. You will definitely leave this city a fan of West African culture. The best way to explore the city is on foot and through befriending the locals. 

This guide outlines the things you must do during your stay and the precautions you can take to make your stay safe. But first, heed some information about purchasing the right travel medical insurance or travel insurance.

Ouagadougou Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs

Your domestic insurance will not cover your medical expenses abroad. Get travel medical insurance so that you can have a financially secure trip. Your travel medical insurance can help pay for your medical expenses and also assist you in finding the right treatment. 

Do I need travel medical insurance for Ouagadougou? 

Travel medical insurance is not mandatory to visit Ouagadougou. However, it is highly recommended for all visitors. Without it, you would be responsible for paying all medical treatment costs out of your own pocket. 

Why buy travel medical insurance for Ouagadougou? 

Medical facilities in the city are very limited. Hence, if you are in a critical condition and in need of advanced healthcare, emergency medical evacuation may be necessary. As you can imagine, the cost of this is astronomically high. 

Yellow fever, malaria and other insect-borne diseases are also common in Ouagadougou. Hence, even if you have a slight fever, you should get it checked. 

Travel medical insurance can help cover your medical expenses. Buy travel medical insurance, because medical bills can pile up in no time and cost you a fortune. 

Ouagadougou Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs

Travel fare and accommodation costs constitute a big portion of your travel budget. If you have no choice but to cancel your trip, your travel provider will likely not refund you this money. Even if they do, they will charge a cancellation fee. But you don’t have to worry. Trip cancellation insurance can protect you from such risk. It can help you get reimbursed for your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses if your trip has to be cancelled for a covered reason. 

Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Ouagadougou? 

You might not think you’ll have to cancel a long-planned trip, but things can happen at the last minute. You could become seriously ill or suffer a death in the family, or there could be a professional emergency. 

During the rainy season, there might be flooding or landslides in the city. Hence, your flight might get cancelled or delayed. This means you either have to miss a part of your trip or look for emergency accommodation. Both these scenarios can cost you a lot. Trip cancellation insurance can refund your travel and lodging expenses for covered reasons. It may also provide you with compensation for accommodation charges. 

What can be covered under trip cancellation insurance for Ouagadougou? 

The exact details of coverage for trip cancellation insurance will vary depending upon the plan you choose. Generally, in addition to trip cancellation coverage, you should seek out a policy that provides coverage for: 

• Travel delay
• Trip interruption.
• Emergency medical treatment
• The option to cancel for any reason

Buy travel insurance so that you don’t incur heavy financial loss due to a travel mishap.

Things To Do for Travelers in Ouagadougou

Visit the Central Mosque 

Experience the Burkinabe culture at this grand mosque. The blend of traditional elements and modern architecture makes this site a unique visit. Hear tales about the local spiritual life. Learn about the mosque’s fight against poverty. If you’re curious about Islam, you can politely pose questions to the locals, who are known to be friendly.

Spend a day at the National Museum

Take a green shared taxi to spend a day at this museum. Make sure to get a guide who can explain the significance of the artifacts. There are two parts of the museum. One part frequently changes its display to portray different parts of Burkinabe culture. The other part has masks and traditional costumes.

Take a walk in Park Urbain Bangr-Weogo

The park is open from sunrise to sunset. Make sure to carry enough water and sunscreen during your visit. To escape the heat, you can come here early in the morning. Walk the beautiful paths in the forest. This is also a great place to meet and befriend the locals.  

Witness the art at Laongo Sculpture Symposium

Spend about an hour at the Laongo Sculpture Symposium. You can view the range of granite sculptures made in situ by various African artists. The open-air museum hosts a gathering of artists annually for them to leave their impression onto the gray-pink rock. This legacy has been ongoing since 1989.

Shop at Village Artisanal de Ouagadougou

Buy traditional souvenirs to immortalize your visit to this beautiful city. Art is an integral part of the culture of the city. 

The crafting village has over 500 artisans and 50 workshops. Sharpen your haggling skills and choose from an array of paintings, sculptures, clothing, instruments. 

Travel Risks for International Travelers in Ouagadougou

Petty thefts 

Petty thefts and robberies are possible in Ouagadougou. Take special care of your belongings. Do not wear flashy jewelry. While traveling in the city, carry only the necessary belongings. Do not leave your things in the care of strangers. Be especially careful while handling money around ATMs.  

Do not use drugs

All drugs, including marijuana, are illegal in Ouagadougou. Consumption or distribution of drugs of any kind will subject you to the local law. Offenders can receive heavy fines and even jail sentences. 

Know what you can photograph

Do not take pictures of military zones, assets or personnel. Disobeying this can lead to legal action. You can photograph the Tourist Office, but there remains a list of prohibited buildings/installations for which film crews still need permits. You cannot export art without approval from the Ministry of Culture. 

Travelling during Ramadan

The city has a large Muslim population. If you are traveling during Ramadan, make sure you don’t do anything to offend the locals. Avoid eating, drinking, chewing gum or smoking in public during the daytime. Make sure to dress modestly. Loud music and dancing are considered disrespectful.

Before You Travel to Ouagadougou - Do This

Consider these suggestions to make your trip smoother-

• Carry enough sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
• Get vaccinated for yellow fever. 
• Buy travel medical insurance or travel insurance.

DISCLAIMER: The information within this article is intended as a broad summary of benefits and services and is meant for informational purposes only. The information does not describe all scenarios, coverages or exclusions of any insurance plan. The benefits and services of an insurance plan are subject to change. This is not your policy/certificate of insurance. If there is any discrepancy between the information in this article and the language of your policy/certificate wording, the language of the policy/certificate wording will prevail.

The insurance plans available on this website are not specifically targeted towards the destination mentioned in this article. They can provide coverage while traveling away from home, according to the terms and conditions and geographic restrictions applicable to the specific plan.