How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Ouagadougou, Centre, Burkina Faso
1. Local Markets
Experience authentic Burkina Faso culture and avoid tourist prices by visiting local markets like the Grand Marche de Ouagadougou.
- Authenticity: Avoids overpriced souvenirs found in tourist shops
- Cultural Immersion: Allows for a deeper understanding of local customs and traditions
- Affordable Prices: Offers locally sourced goods at reasonable prices
2. Tamklo-Kompao
Visit this ancient site for a glimpse into Burkina Faso's history without the tourist crowds.
- Historical Significance: Provides insights into the Mossi Kingdom's rich past
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Avoids the crowds found at more popular tourist sites
- Affordable Tour Guide: Guides are often locals who can offer unique insights into the site's history
3. Morning Food Markets
Start your day with fresh local produce and avoid tourist traps by visiting morning food markets like the Marche du Lundi.
- Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy locally grown fruits, vegetables, and meats
- Local Interaction: Connect with local vendors to learn about Burkina Faso cuisine
- Avoiding Tourist Prices: Buying food directly from vendors can save money and avoid overpriced restaurants
4. Cascades de la Vallée du Zigi
Escape the tourist crowds and explore the beautiful Cascades de la Vallée du Zigi, a hidden gem outside Ouagadougou.
- Natural Beauty: Experience breathtaking waterfalls and lush landscapes
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Avoids the crowds found at more popular tourist attractions
- Eco-Tourism: Supports local conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices
5. Restaurants Away from Major Sights
Avoid tourist traps by dining at restaurants away from major sights like the National Museum.
- Local Cuisine: Experience authentic Burkina Faso dishes
- Affordable Prices: Avoids the inflated prices found in tourist restaurants near major sights
- Supporting Local Economy: Supports local businesses and contributes to the community's economy
6. Musée d'Art et d'Artisanat de Ouagadougou
Avoid tourist traps by visiting this art museum instead of the more crowded National Museum.
- Cultural Education: Learn about Burkina Faso's rich artistic heritage
- Affordable Admission: Offers a more affordable admission price compared to the National Museum
- Less Crowded: Avoids the crowds found at more popular tourist sites
7. Les Jardins de l'Amitié
Escape the city bustle and relax in this peaceful garden without the tourist crowds.
- Relaxation: Offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle
- Local Experience: Provides a glimpse into local life and gardening practices
- Budget-Friendly: Offers free admission, making it an affordable option for travelers
8. Sunday Market at Koudougou
Experience a bustling market filled with locals without the tourist crowds on weekdays.
- Local Culture: Immerse yourself in Burkina Faso's vibrant culture
- Affordable Prices: Avoids the inflated prices found in tourist markets
- Authentic Interaction: Connect with local vendors to learn about their customs and traditions
9. Women's Association Craft Shops
Support local women and avoid tourist traps by shopping at craft shops run by women's associations.
- Empowerment: Supports the economic empowerment of local women
- Affordable Prices: Offers locally made crafts at reasonable prices
- Authentic Products: Avoids the mass-produced items found in tourist shops
10. Café du Monde
Enjoy a coffee without the tourist crowds at this popular local hangout.
- Local Atmosphere: Experience the vibrant energy of Ouagadougou's residents
- Affordable Prices: Offers reasonably priced coffee and snacks
- People Watching: Provides an opportunity to observe local life in Ouagadougou
11. Petit Marché des Femmes de Ouaga
Avoid tourist traps by shopping for fresh produce at this market run by women.
- Fresh Produce: Enjoy locally grown fruits, vegetables, and spices
- Local Interaction: Connect with local women to learn about their lives and customs
- Avoiding Tourist Prices: Buying food directly from vendors can save money and avoid overpriced restaurants
12. Bars Around the University of Ouagadougou
Avoid tourist traps by hanging out at bars frequented by university students.
- Local Atmosphere: Experience the lively energy of young Burkina Faso residents
- Affordable Prices: Offers reasonably priced drinks and snacks
- People Watching: Provides an opportunity to observe local life in Ouagadougou
13. Visit a Local Home for Dinner
Avoid tourist traps by having dinner at a local's home.
- Authentic Experience: Experience Burkina Faso's traditional cuisine and hospitality
- Affordable Prices: Offers a more affordable price compared to restaurants catering to tourists
- Cultural Exchange: Opportunity to learn about local customs and traditions
14. Take a Local Transportation Option
Avoid tourist traps by using public transportation like tro-tros instead of taxis.
- Authentic Experience: Experience how locals get around Ouagadougou
- Affordable Prices: Offers a more affordable price compared to taxis catering to tourists
- Cultural Exchange: Opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their daily life
15. Take a Walk in Residential Neighborhoods
Avoid tourist traps by exploring residential neighborhoods instead of tourist areas.
- Local Experience: Experience the daily life of Ouagadougou's residents
- Avoiding Tourist Prices: Avoids the inflated prices found in tourist areas
- Cultural Exchange: Opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their customs and traditions