|
|
 |
In the Mossi language, Burkina
Faso means 'Land of the Honest People'. Ouagadougou, the capital, is one
of West Africa's best kept secrets. Most of its one million residents are
Mossi with Peul, Fulani and Tuareg throughout the country. Every two years,
Ouagadougou hosts the FESPACO International Film Festival, drawing cinema
buffs from all over the world. SIAO - Africa's largest arts and crafts
show, draws another estimated 100,000 visitors. |
 |
| The city also boasts fine restaurants
and decent hotels. The National Art Museum and the Grand Marché
are focal points for tourists, and at Moro Naba Palace, each Friday features
a ceremony where mounted warriors pay homage to the king of the Mossi.
Just east of Ouaga, you can visit the fabulous granite sculptures in Laongo.
And just north is the ancient Mossi village of Pabre. |
 |
|
Money: CFA francs
Time: EST + 4 hrs.
Language: French &
Local Languages.
Capital: Ouagadougou
Population: 12 Million |
|
|
 |
Further north, one enters the
boundary between the Sahel and the Sahara. The landscape features exotic
baobab trees and leads to the desert where those with a wanderlust can
board a camel to visit a Tuareg camp. Or you can take a day trip to to
the Sacred Crocodile Lake in Sabou. From Ouagadougou, most people go on
to Bobo-Dioulasso, the second largest city in Burkina, located in the southwest
area. |
 |
| Founded in the 14th century, Bobo
is known for its tree-lined streets and relaxed lifestyle. Visit the ancient
Grand Mosque and the well-stocked Grand Marché with Bobo's distinct
pottery, local masks and Lobi carvings. Nature lovers can visit a waterfall,
elephants, hippos and rock formations in the immediate area. The route
back takes you through Gaoua, the realm of the Lobi people, who are known
for their art and fairy castle homes. |
 |
 |
|
Burkina Faso is a step back
in time - a piece of forgotten Africa that is sure to enchant you.
|
 |
