
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.