Souvenirs & What to Buy in Ouagadougou, Centre, Burkina Faso

Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, Ouagadougou, Shopping & Local Markets, Souvenirs & What to Buy

Souvenirs & What to Buy in Ouagadougou, Centre, Burkina Faso

1. Bobo Diori Masks

Handcrafted masks representing the Bwa ethnic group and their mythology, unique to Ouagadougou.
  • Cultural Significance: Keeps a cultural tradition alive while supporting local artisans.
  • Unique Design: Each mask is different, offering a personalized piece of art.
  • Quality Assurance: Authentic masks are made using traditional techniques and materials.

2. Zarama Woven Baskets

Woven baskets from the Zarma people, showcasing intricate patterns and colors.
  • Handmade Craftsmanship: Baskets are skillfully woven by local artisans using natural materials.
  • Design Variety: Each basket is unique, offering a wide range of choices for souvenirs.
  • Functionality: Baskets serve as both decorative items and practical storage solutions.

3. Mossi Pottery

Traditional Mossi pottery showcasing intricate designs inspired by nature.
  • Artistic Expression: Pottery reflects the creativity of local artists and their connection to nature.
  • Durability: Handmade pottery is strong, making it a long-lasting souvenir.
  • Functionality: Pottery serves as both decorative and practical items.

4. Batik Fabric

Colorful batik fabric featuring traditional patterns, available in various sizes.
  • Traditional Technique: Batik is made using a time-honored technique passed down through generations.
  • Design Variety: Each piece of fabric is unique, offering a wide range of choices for souvenirs.
  • Versatility: Fabric can be used to create various items such as clothing or home decor.

5. Hausa Silver Jewelry

Delicate silver jewelry crafted by Hausa artisans, featuring intricate designs.
  • Cultural Significance: Jewelry represents the rich cultural heritage of the Hausa people.
  • Quality Craftsmanship: Silver jewelry is skillfully crafted using traditional techniques.
  • Versatility: Jewelry can be worn as a fashion statement or collected as a keepsake.

6. Soga Drums

Traditional Soga drums used in West African music and dance performances.
  • Cultural Significance: Drums symbolize the rich musical heritage of Ouagadougou.
  • Quality Assurance: Authentic drums are made using traditional techniques and materials.
  • Functionality: Drums can be played as a musical instrument or displayed as a decorative item.

7. Kora Music CDs

CDs featuring traditional Kora music from Ouagadougou's renowned musicians.
  • Cultural Preservation: CDs help preserve the rich musical heritage of Ouagadougou.
  • Authenticity: Music is performed using traditional Kora instruments and techniques.
  • Affordability: CDs are a more affordable way to experience Ouagadougou's music compared to live performances.

8. Faso Dan Fani (Museum of African and Modern Art)

A museum dedicated to showcasing African and modern art from various artists.
  • Cultural Education: Visiting the museum offers insight into African art and culture.
  • Artistic Diversity: The museum showcases a wide variety of artistic styles and mediums.
  • Supporting Artists: Proceeds from museum admission support local artists and their work.

9. Tam-tam Restaurant

A restaurant serving traditional Burkinabe cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
  • Authentic Taste: Food is prepared using traditional recipes and ingredients.
  • Cultural Immersion: Dining at the restaurant offers a taste of local culture.
  • Affordable Prices: Prices are affordable, making it accessible to travelers on various budgets.

10. Zongo Market

A bustling marketplace where you can find a wide variety of goods, including souvenirs.
  • Shopping Experience: The market offers an immersive and authentic shopping experience.
  • Variety of Goods: You can find everything from souvenirs to fresh produce at the market.
  • Supporting Local Economy: By shopping at the market, you're supporting local businesses and artisans.

11. Morning Market (Marche du Matin)

A daily market selling fresh produce, handicrafts, and other goods.
  • Fresh Food: The market offers a variety of fresh produce and local specialties.
  • Authentic Experience: Visiting the market allows you to experience daily life in Ouagadougou.
  • Supporting Local Economy: By shopping at the market, you're supporting local farmers and businesses.

12. La Maison de l'Artisanat de Ouagadougou

A cooperative showcasing handcrafted items from various artisans across Burkina Faso.
  • Cultural Education: Visiting the cooperative offers insight into various crafts and traditions.
  • Quality Assurance: Items are made using traditional techniques and materials by skilled artisans.
  • Supporting Artisans: Proceeds from sales support local artisans and their communities.

13. National Museum of Burkina Faso

A museum showcasing the history, culture, and art of Burkina Faso.
  • Cultural Education: Visiting the museum offers insight into Burkinabe history and culture.
  • Artistic Diversity: The museum showcases a wide variety of artistic styles and mediums.
  • Supporting the Preservation of History: Proceeds from museum admission help preserve Burkina Faso's cultural heritage.

14. La Balafonnière

A music school where you can learn to play traditional Burkinabe instruments.
  • Cultural Immersion: Learning to play traditional instruments offers a unique cultural experience.
  • Quality Instruction: Lessons are taught by experienced musicians.
  • Affordable Prices: Prices for lessons are affordable and accessible to travelers.

15. Sunday Artisan Market (Marche des Artisans)

A weekly market featuring handcrafted items by local artisans.
  • Shopping Experience: The market offers an immersive and authentic shopping experience.
  • Variety of Goods: You can find a wide variety of handcrafted items at the market.
  • Supporting Local Artisans: By shopping at the market, you're supporting local businesses and artisans.