Ruins of Loropéni: Echoes of the Trans-Saharan Gold Trade
Explore the ancient Ruins of Loropéni, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a window into West Africa's medieval gold trade and cultural heritage.
The Ruins of Loropéni, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Burkina Faso, are the well-preserved stone remains of a medieval fortress dating back over 1,000 years. Once a vital hub in the trans-Saharan gold trade, the ruins offer a glimpse into West Africa's rich history and cultural exchange.
A brief summary to Ruins of Loropéni
- 6CX8+XMR, Niratoma, BF
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear to navigate the uneven terrain comfortably.
- Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the ruins.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.
- Bring plenty of water, as there are limited amenities available at the site.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Gaoua, the capital of the Sud-Ouest Region, small buses depart from downtown (not the main bus station) towards Banfora via Loropéni. Get off in Loropéni. From there, the ruins are about 4 km in the direction of Banfora. You can walk or find a motorbike taxi for around 500 CFA.
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Taxi
From Gaoua, hire a taxi for the 40km journey to the Ruins of Loropéni. The drive takes approximately one hour. Negotiate the fare beforehand. Expect to pay around 35,000 CFA for a car and driver for the day.
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