Ouahigouya: The Gateway to Northern Burkina Faso

Discover Ouahigouya, the vibrant city in northern Burkina Faso known for its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and stunning natural beauty.

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Burkina Faso
Ouahigouya

Ouahigouya is a vibrant city in northern Burkina Faso, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its friendly locals and rich traditions, Ouahigouya serves as an excellent introduction to the region's heritage. The city is home to the ancient Yatenga Kingdom, and you can explore various historical sites that tell the story of its glorious past. One of the notable attractions in Ouahigouya is the grand mosque, which stands as a remarkable example of Sahelian architecture. The bustling central market is another must-visit spot, where you can experience local life and shop for handmade crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. The market is a sensory delight, filled with vibrant colors and the aroma of traditional foods. Nature enthusiasts will find joy in the nearby Lake Bam, a serene spot perfect for bird-watching and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding villages, where you can witness traditional dances, music, and crafts firsthand. Ouahigouya is also a gateway to the Sahel region, making it an excellent base for exploring the area's natural landscapes and cultural landmarks. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in local culture, Ouahigouya promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Local tips in Ouahigouya

Visit the central market early in the morning to experience the bustling atmosphere and get the best selection of goods.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as the grand mosque, to show respect for local customs.
Hire a local guide to explore the historical sites and surrounding villages for a more in-depth understanding of the culture and history.
Carry cash with you, as credit card facilities may be limited in the city and surrounding areas.
Stay hydrated and wear sun protection, as the weather can be quite hot, especially during the dry season.

File:Gemüseverkäuferinnen mit Tonkrugkühler, Female vegetable sellers with clay pot cooler, vendeuses des légumes avec un canari frigo, Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Ouahigouya?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Parc Bangr Weogo

Discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Ouagadougou at Parc Bangr Weogo, a serene park home to diverse wildlife and vibrant local traditions.

Ouagadougou Thomas Sankara International Airport

Experience the warmth of Burkina Faso at Ouagadougou Thomas Sankara International Airport, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in West Africa.

Ouagadougou Cathedral

Experience the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Ouagadougou Cathedral, a cultural gem in Burkina Faso's capital city.

Monument of National Heroes

Explore the Monument of National Heroes in Ouagadougou, a stunning tribute to Burkina Faso's courageous leaders and a cultural touchstone for visitors.

KB et frères

Experience the architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance of KB et Frères, a must-visit mosque and cultural landmark in Ouagadougou.

BIBI PARC

Experience endless fun and adventure at BIBI PARC, Ouagadougou's premier amusement park, offering thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions.

Faso Parc

Explore the fun-filled thrills of Faso Parc, Ouagadougou's premier amusement park, offering rides, games, and family-friendly attractions for all ages.

Hotel de l'Amitie

Discover warm hospitality and comfort at Hotel de l'Amitie in Ouahigouya, your perfect base for exploring the beauty of Burkina Faso.

Hotel Toyoko

Experience comfort and local charm at Hotel Toyoko, your ideal base for exploring Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso.

Hotel Dunia

Discover comfort and hospitality at Hotel Dunia in Ouahigouya, the perfect base for exploring Burkina Faso's rich culture and vibrant landscapes.

Hotel Liberte

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culture at Hotel Liberte in Ouahigouya, your ideal base for exploring Burkina Faso's vibrant landscapes.

Mosquée de Ouahigouya-Sud

Experience the spiritual and cultural richness of the Mosquée de Ouahigouya-Sud, a stunning architectural landmark in Burkina Faso.

Mosquée de Ouahigouya-Ouest

Explore the architectural beauty and cultural significance of the Mosquée de Ouahigouya-Ouest, a serene retreat in Burkina Faso.

Université de Ouahigouya

Discover the vibrant academic atmosphere at Université de Ouahigouya, where education meets culture in the heart of Burkina Faso.

Mosquée d'Ouahigouya-Ouest

Discover the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Mosquée d'Ouahigouya-Ouest in the heart of Burkina Faso, a must-visit spiritual sanctuary.

Essential places to dine

SIKA LOUNGE

Discover the culinary delights of SIKA LOUNGE in Ouagadougou - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

Chick Restaurant

Discover diverse flavors at Chick Restaurant in Ouagadougou – from traditional African dishes to delicious fast food delights.

Kadiami

Discover Kadiami in Ouahigouya: A culinary treasure showcasing authentic Burkinabé flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.

Asanka Locals Restaurant

Experience authentic Burkinabé cuisine at Asanka Locals Restaurant in Ouagadougou - where every dish tells a story.

benoua lodge

Experience authentic Burkinabé cuisine at Benoua Lodge in Ouagadougou - where every meal tells a story.

THE GARDEN Restaurant - Lounge

Discover the essence of Burkinabé cuisine at The Garden Restaurant - Lounge, where every meal is an experience surrounded by nature's beauty.

Restaurant Aboussouan

Discover authentic West African flavors at Restaurant Aboussouan in Ouagadougou – a culinary journey you won't forget.

Restaurant l'Élysée

Discover the elegance of Haute French cuisine at Restaurant l'Élysée in Ouagadougou - where exquisite flavors meet exceptional service.

Restaurant Chez Tantie Deguè

Discover authentic Burkinabé cuisine at Restaurant Chez Tantie Deguè in Ouahigouya - where every meal tells a story.

Le Barka

Discover Le Barka: A top-tier restaurant in Ouagadougou offering exquisite dining experiences amidst relaxing leisure facilities.

Restaurants Chez Yassia 2

Discover authentic Burkinabé cuisine at Restaurants Chez Yassia 2 in Ouahigouya - where flavor meets affordability.

Restaurants

Discover authentic local flavors at this charming Ouahigouya restaurant, where traditional cuisine meets warm hospitality.

RESTAURANT YENTEMA

Experience the vibrant flavors of Burkina Faso at Restaurant Yentema in Ouagadougou - where local cuisine meets international flair.

Maquis Resto La frégadellis

Experience authentic Burkinabé cuisine at Maquis Resto La Frégadellis in Ouahigouya - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Restaurant Kiosque yassia

Experience authentic Burkinabé cuisine at Restaurant Kiosque Yassia in Ouahigouya - where every dish tells a story.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Chambre de commerce de ouahigouya

Explore the vibrant Chambre de Commerce de Ouahigouya, where shopping meets local culture in the heart of Burkina Faso.

Vegetable Market

Explore Ouahigouya's Vegetable Market: a bustling hub of fresh produce, local culture, and vibrant flavors in the heart of Burkina Faso.

Supermarche Mini-Prix du Nord

Discover local flavors and vibrant culture at Supermarche Mini-Prix du Nord, the premier shopping destination in Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso.

Boutique du 2. QG des Jeunes

Explore the vibrant Boutique du 2. QG des Jeunes in Ouahigouya, where local culture meets diverse shopping experiences for every traveler.

Boutique Splendide

Explore Boutique Splendide in Ouahigouya for unique, locally crafted clothing and accessories that celebrate the vibrant Burkinabé culture.

Ets SAWADOGO et Frère

Explore Ets SAWADOGO et Frère in Ouahigouya, a vibrant shopping mall offering local crafts, textiles, and delicious Burkinabé cuisine.

Chez Bruno

Explore the best in electronics at Chez Bruno in Ouahigouya, a tech haven for tourists and locals alike.

Nankosem Ouahigouya

Explore the vibrant Nankosem Ouahigouya Shopping Mall, where local culture and commerce converge in the heart of Burkina Faso.

EBAF

Discover EBAF in Ouahigouya: a vibrant shopping mall featuring local crafts, international brands, and delightful dining options for all travelers.

SmartWorld burkina

Explore SmartWorld Burkina, a treasure trove of handcrafted jewelry reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Burkina Faso in Ouahigouya.

Quincaillerie du nord commerce général

Discover authentic craftsmanship at Quincaillerie du Nord, the premier building materials store in Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso.

Euro Boutique

Explore Euro Boutique in Ouahigouya for an unforgettable shopping experience blending local charm with international flair.

Boutique zogore et frère

Explore unique local crafts and fashion at Boutique Zogore et Frère, a vibrant shopping destination in Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso, showcasing the essence of local artistry.

Plaisir dans la vente

Discover a world of organic delights at Plaisir dans la Vente, your go-to health food store in Ouahigouya.

Établissement ZOGORE ET FILS

Discover the vibrant women's clothing collection at Établissement ZOGORE ET FILS in Ouahigouya, showcasing local fashion with a modern twist.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Maquis Lingot d'or

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and authentic local flavors at Maquis Lingot d'or, the must-visit bar in Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso.

Bar La Paix

Discover the lively spirit of Ouahigouya at Bar La Paix, a local gem offering drinks, snacks, and a taste of vibrant nightlife.

Capsule Show Ouahigouya

Discover the lively nightlife and local culture at Capsule Show Ouahigouya, a bar that offers a unique blend of drinks and entertainment.

Maquis Africaine

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors of Burkina Faso at Maquis Africaine, the heart of Ouahigouya's nightlife.

SCALE PLUS

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Ouahigouya at SCALE PLUS, a lively bar offering a diverse selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

Maquis Escale Plus

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Maquis Escale Plus, a bar in Ouahigouya offering a delightful taste of local culture and refreshing drinks.

Siminus

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Siminus, a lively bar in Ouahigouya offering a diverse drink selection and a welcoming atmosphere.

Bar Caïman

Discover the lively spirit of Ouahigouya at Bar Caïman, where local drinks and vibrant culture come together for an unforgettable experience.

Alimentation la grâce (vin)

Experience the exquisite wines of Alimentation la Grâce, a charming wine bar in Ouahigouya, blending local flavor with a cozy atmosphere.

Maquis Somkieta

Experience the vibrant local culture and refreshing drinks at Maquis Somkieta, a lively bar in the heart of Ouahigouya, Burkina Faso.

CAFÉOTHÈQUE LAAFI ️

Discover authentic grilled delicacies at CAFÉOTHÈQUE LAAFI in Ouahigouya, where local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere come together.

Buvette Chez Tinto

Discover the authentic local bar experience at Buvette Chez Tinto, where culture, flavor, and friendly faces await in Ouahigouya.

Maquis le nil

Discover the vibrant Maquis le nil in Ouahigouya, where local culture blends with a lively bar atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

Maquis Resto Nomwendé

Experience the vibrant local culture at Maquis Resto Nomwendé in Ouahigouya, where delicious cuisine and lively ambiance await.

LE RELAIS

Experience the lively atmosphere of Le Relais, Ouahigouya's favorite bar, perfect for refreshing drinks and vibrant social gatherings.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Ouahigouya

Discover Ouahigouya with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloSalut
  [sa-lu]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh re-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [seel voo pleh / deh ryan]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon/ Désolé
  [pahr-dohn / deh-zoh-leh]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [ko-mohn sah vah?]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et toi?
  [byen. ay twah?]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay?]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr luh muh-nyoo, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-yay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh seh-koor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uh may-deh-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray zah-shay...]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhuhst]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot?]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-veh voo bay-say luh pree?]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kel uhr eh-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel eh oon uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix et demi
  [dees ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swah]
- YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kat]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [set]
- 8Huit
  [wheet]
- 9Neuf
  [nurf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est le/la...?
  [oo eh luh/lah]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kel eh la-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-veh voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn eh luh proh-shahn (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ...)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Ouahigouya

Ouahigouya, founded in the early 18th century, is one of the oldest cities in Burkina Faso. Established by the Yatenga Kingdom, it served as the capital and a pivotal center for trade, culture, and governance.
Under the reign of Naaba Kango (circa 1740-1787), Ouahigouya flourished as a major political and economic hub. Naaba Kango is remembered for his administrative skills and efforts to expand the kingdom's influence, including his strategic alliances and military campaigns.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ouahigouya came under French colonial rule. The city became a focal point in the struggle between local kingdoms and the French forces. Significant battles and negotiations took place, ultimately leading to the area's incorporation into French West Africa.
Following Burkina Faso's independence from France in 1960, Ouahigouya experienced a period of modernization. The city saw improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, making it a vital regional center. Efforts to preserve its historical and cultural heritage also became prominent during this era.
Ouahigouya is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the annual 'Dagara' festival, which celebrates the rich heritage of the Mossi people. Traditional dances, music, and rituals are performed, reflecting the city's deep cultural roots and community spirit.
The city is home to several architectural landmarks, including the Naaba Kango Palace and the Great Mosque of Ouahigouya. These structures not only serve as places of historical significance but also as symbols of the city's enduring legacy and cultural identity.
Historically, Ouahigouya has been a key trading post due to its strategic location. The city's markets bustle with activity, offering a variety of goods ranging from local crafts to agricultural products. This role as a trade hub has been essential in fostering economic growth and cultural exchange.

Ouahigouya Essentials

Ouahigouya is located in the northern part of Burkina Faso. The nearest international airport is Ouagadougou International Airport in the capital city of Ouagadougou, approximately 182 kilometers away. From Ouagadougou, you can take a bus or hire a private taxi to Ouahigouya. The bus journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours depending on road conditions. Private taxis are quicker but more expensive. Alternatively, you can rent a car if you prefer to drive yourself.
Ouahigouya is a relatively small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips within the town, local taxis are available and reasonably priced. Motorbike taxis, known as 'moto-taxis,' are also a common mode of transport. Public minibuses connect Ouahigouya to nearby towns and villages. Renting a car is an option but be prepared for variable road conditions.
The official currency in Burkina Faso is the West African CFA Franc (XOF). Cash is the most common form of payment, so it is advisable to carry sufficient cash. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments but not commonly used in smaller shops and markets. ATMs are available in Ouahigouya, but it's wise to withdraw cash in Ouagadougou before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.
Ouahigouya is generally safe, but standard safety precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like markets. Some areas on the outskirts of town have higher crime rates; it's best to stay within well-populated and well-lit areas. Always stay updated on travel advisories.
In case of emergency, dial 17 for police assistance and 18 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Ouahigouya is the Centre Hospitalier Régional de Ouahigouya, which provides basic medical services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, including taking off your shoes when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be polite and greet fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and use the right hand. Avoid using the left hand for greetings or giving items. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Ouahigouya like a local, visit the central market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals as they are often friendly and eager to share stories about their town. Don’t miss visiting the Yatenga Royal Palace to learn about the history of the region. For a unique experience, take part in a local festival if your visit coincides with one, such as the annual Yam Festival, which celebrates the harvest season.

Ouahigouya: The Gateway to Northern Burkina Faso

Local tips in Ouahigouya