Major Highways & Driving Tips in Ouagadougou, Centre, Burkina Faso

1. Route National 1 (RN1)

The main north-south highway connecting Ouagadougou to the border of Mali. It's essential for long-distance travel.

Construction Quality: Well-maintained and suitable for all types of vehicles.
Traffic Conditions: Expect heavy traffic, especially near cities.
Scenery: Enjoy the Sahel savannah landscapes during your drive.

Connects Ouagadougou to Bobo-Dioulasso, the second-largest city in Burkina Faso.

Scenic Routes: Passes through picturesque villages and landscapes.
Traffic Congestion: Can get busy, especially during market days in villages.
Rest Stops: Frequent rest stops offer food and refreshments along the route.

Important road connecting Ouagadougou with the border of Cote d'Ivoire.

Customs Procedures: Be prepared for customs and immigration checks at the border.
Road Conditions: The road can be rough in some parts, but it's generally navigable.
Travel Time: The journey takes around 5 hours from Ouagadougou.

Vital road linking Ouagadougou with the border of Benin.

Border Crossing: Expect customs and immigration checks at the border.
Road Conditions: The road can be rough in some parts, but it's generally passable.
Travel Time: The journey takes around 6 hours from Ouagadougou.

Vital road linking Ouagadougou with the city of Koudougou.

Rural Scenery: Enjoy scenic views of Burkina Faso's rural landscapes.
Traffic Conditions: Expect light to moderate traffic during the day.
Rest Stops: Frequent rest stops offer food and refreshments along the route.

Important road connecting Ouagadougou with the border of Mali.

Customs Procedures: Be prepared for customs and immigration checks at the border.
Road Conditions: The road can be rough in some parts, but it's generally navigable.
Travel Time: The journey takes around 6 hours from Ouagadougou.

Vital road linking Ouagadougou with the border of Togo.

Border Crossing: Expect customs and immigration checks at the border.
Road Conditions: The road can be rough in some parts, but it's generally passable.
Travel Time: The journey takes around 8 hours from Ouagadougou.

Due to poor road conditions and increased risk of accidents, it's best to avoid driving at night in Ouagadougou.

Safety Considerations: Roads can be poorly lit, increasing the risk of accidents.
Animals on Roads: Cattle and other livestock often graze near roads, posing a hazard to drivers.
Road Conditions: Poor road conditions make driving at night more difficult.

Understand the local traffic rules to ensure a safe and stress-free driving experience in Ouagadougou.

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Burkina Faso at your own pace.

Insurance Coverage: Check if insurance covers damage, theft, or third-party liability.
Rental Conditions: Understand the rental company's terms and conditions.
Vehicle Quality: Ensure that the rented vehicle is in good condition.

Taxis are widely available and can be a convenient way to get around the city.

Fares: Negotiate fares before starting your journey.
Safety Considerations: Ensure the taxi is licensed and in good condition.
Language Barrier: Use a translation app or find an English-speaking driver if necessary.

Public transport is a cheap but often crowded way to get around the city.

Safety Considerations: Be aware of your belongings and personal safety.
Language Barrier: Use a translation app or find someone who speaks French or local languages to help navigate the system.
Routes and Schedules: Familiarize yourself with the routes and schedules of public transport options.

A GPS navigation system can help you find your way around the city and beyond.

Road Conditions: Ensure your GPS can handle rough roads or poor signal areas.
Accuracy: Check the accuracy of your GPS in unfamiliar locations.
Up-to-date Maps: Make sure your GPS has up-to-date maps of Burkina Faso.

Knowing how to contact emergency services can be crucial in case of an accident or other emergency.

Rainy season can make driving more challenging due to flooded roads and reduced visibility.

Visibility: Drive slowly and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
Road Conditions: Be cautious of potholes, mud, and flooded roads.
Lighting Conditions: Use headlights even during daytime for increased visibility.