Short guide to Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso literally translates as ´the land of the upright people.´
A West African nation, Burkina Faso is one of the poorest in the world, with one of the highest rates of illiteracy. Nevertheless, it is also one of the most fascinating, with more than sixty different cultural heritages, spectacular attractions and a joyful, friendly local population.
Burkina Faso is a landlocked country. Bordered by the Côte d'Ivoire, Togo, Ghana, Niger, Mali and Benin, it is easy to see how it became one of the cultural melting pots of West Africa. Spend any amount of time in Burkina Faso and it will become normal to hear any number of languages and music styles, or smell food that could come from anywhere on earth.
When you plan a visit to Burkina Faso, plan for a country that lacks infrastructure and facilities. For instance, we take Cashpoints for granted, but if you rely on being able to pull money out of an ATM at every turn, you will be disappointed. This is a cash-based economy, so leave your cards at home. Also, try not to be too open with your expensive electronics. The iPod isn´t necessary for a stroll down the street: Not only do you leave yourself open as a temptation for theft, but it's culturally inappropriate.
Cautions aside, it is time to enjoy the attractions that Burkina Faso has to offer. The Feminine Artisan Centre of Gorom (located, as you would expect, in Gorom Gorom) has sculpture, pottery and painted art for exhibition and sale and are exquisite pieces. The famed Princess Guimbi Ouattara is memorialised in her own mausoleum and the waterfall of Banfora is not to be missed. Sabou is home to sacred crocodiles (yes, sacred) and the granite sculptors of Loango produce pieces that need to be seen to be believed.
Burkina Faso has only two seasons: Wet and Dry. Like all tropical countries, both seasons are hot but try to avoid the wet season as the humidity is high enough to keep you lying breathless in your room for your whole holiday.
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