Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Ouagadougou, Centre, Burkina Faso
1. Maison des Aveugles (House of the Blind)
A unique social enterprise where blind artisans create beautiful items. Solves the challenge of employment for visually impaired individuals.
- Unique Craftsmanship: Artisans use traditional techniques to create intricate crafts.
- Social Impact: Empowering visually impaired individuals through income generation.
- Accessibility: Designed with accessibility in mind, encouraging visitors to engage with the blind artisans.
2. Le Musée National du Haut-Bassin
A museum showcasing Burkina Faso's rich cultural heritage. Solves the challenge of preserving and sharing local history.
- Cultural Immersion: Features a vast collection of traditional artifacts, clothing, and artwork.
- Local Knowledge: Guides offer insights into the stories behind each exhibit.
- Architecture: Designed in a traditional Faso-Dan style, enhancing the cultural experience.
3. La Grande Mosquée de Ouagadougou
A striking modern mosque with an unusual structure. Solves the challenge of accommodating a growing Muslim population.
- Architectural Marvel: Features a unique design, resembling a ship's sail.
- Religious Significance: Serves as a symbol of Islamic faith in the city.
- Community Gathering Place: Acts as a hub for community events and religious ceremonies.
4. Maison d'Art Zandana
An art gallery showcasing contemporary African art. Solves the challenge of promoting modern African artistry.
- Contemporary Art: Features works by both established and emerging artists.
- Artist Engagement: Regularly hosts workshops and artist talks.
- Cultural Exchange: Promotes cultural exchange between African artists and the international community.
5. Les Jardins de la Petit Rocher
A peaceful oasis in a bustling city. Solves the challenge of providing tranquility and relaxation.
- Urban Oasis: Offers a lush, green escape amidst the city.
- Relaxation Space: Features a small lake, perfect for peaceful walks.
- Local Cuisine: Serves traditional Burkina Faso dishes in the on-site restaurant.
6. Le Marché Central de Ouagadougou
A bustling market showcasing local produce and crafts. Solves the challenge of providing authentic shopping experiences.
- Authentic Shopping: Offers a wide variety of traditional Burkina Faso crafts.
- Local Interaction: Provides opportunities for interacting with local vendors and learning about their products.
- Cultural Exchange: Encourages cultural exchange through interactions with locals and the purchase of traditional goods.
7. Le Centre de Documentation et d'Animation Sociale
A center for learning about Burkina Faso's social issues and solutions. Solves the challenge of educating visitors about local issues.
- Social Awareness: Offers workshops, documentaries, and exhibits on Burkina Faso's social issues.
- Empowerment: Promotes local empowerment through education and advocacy.
- Community Engagement: Encourages visitors to participate in community projects and initiatives.
8. La Grande Muraille de Ouagadougou
An urban art project featuring large-scale murals. Solves the challenge of showcasing local creativity.
- Urban Art: Features vibrant, colorful murals by local and international artists.
- Community Engagement: Engages the community in the creation of the artwork.
- Artistic Diversity: Showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and themes.
9. La Réserve Zoologique de Ouagadougou
A wildlife reserve with local and exotic animals. Solves the challenge of providing close encounters with wildlife.
- Wildlife Conservation: Works to conserve endangered species through breeding programs.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about the animals and conservation efforts.
- Interactive Experiences: Provides opportunities for close encounters with various wildlife species.
10. Le Centre Culturel Franco-Burkinabe
A cultural center promoting French and Burkina Faso culture. Solves the challenge of fostering cultural exchange.
- Cultural Exchange: Offers French language classes, exhibits, and events.
- Community Engagement: Encourages participation in cultural activities and events.
- Language Learning: Provides resources for learning French, fostering cross-cultural communication.
11. Le Parc National du W (W National Park)
A national park offering wildlife safaris and hiking trails. Solves the challenge of providing nature-based experiences.
- Wildlife Safari: Offers guided safaris to spot diverse wildlife species.
- Hiking Trails: Features scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views.
- Eco-Conscious Tourism: Promotes sustainable and eco-conscious tourism practices.
12. Le Centre de Lutte Contre la Sècheresse et la Faim
A center fighting against drought and famine. Solves the challenge of addressing food security.
- Food Security: Provides resources and support to communities affected by drought and famine.
- Awareness Raising: Raises awareness about the impacts of climate change on food security.
- Community Empowerment: Empowers communities to develop sustainable agriculture practices.
13. La Résidence Présidentielle
The Presidential Residence, offering a glimpse into Burkina Faso's political history. Solves the challenge of providing historical context.
- Political History: Offers insights into Burkina Faso's political past and present.
- Architectural Significance: Features a unique design, reflecting Burkina Faso's cultural heritage.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to provide context and historical insights.
14. Le Centre de Recherche et d'Innovation Scientifique et Technologique
A research and innovation center focusing on scientific and technological advancements. Solves the challenge of fostering innovation in Burkina Faso.
- Innovation: Develops new technologies to address local challenges.
- Collaboration: Fosters collaboration between local researchers and international experts.
- Sustainable Development: Focuses on research that promotes sustainable development in Burkina Faso.
15. Le Centre Culturel Français
A French cultural center promoting French language and culture. Solves the challenge of fostering cultural exchange.
- Cultural Exchange: Offers French language classes, exhibits, and events.
- Community Engagement: Encourages participation in cultural activities and events.
- Language Learning: Provides resources for learning French, fostering cross-cultural communication.