Things to do in Ouagadougou
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ouagadougou has to offer
Historic Monuments
Places that mark Burkina Faso's recent and colonial-era history, nestled in the heart of Ouagadougou.
Monument de l’Indépendance
Iconic monument commemorating Burkina Faso’s path to independence, located near the central squares.
Statue de Thomas Sankara
A prominent statue honoring Burkina Faso’s former leader, a common rendezvous in the city.
Stade du 4-Août (historic stadium)
Historic stadium that hosts major national events and sports matches.
Museums
Cultural showcases where Burkinabé art, history and daily life are celebrated.
Musée National du Burkina Faso
National museum displaying Burkina Faso’s ethnographic and historical artifacts.
La Maison du Peuple (cultural venue with exhibits)
Cultural center that hosts exhibitions and performances reflecting Burkinabé life.
Centre d’Art Burkinabé (arts and craft center)
Spot to explore contemporary art and traditional crafts from the region.
Religious Monuments
Religious landmarks that define Ouagadougou’s spiritual landscape.
Grande Mosquée de Ouagadougou
Impressive mosque that stands as a major Islamic place of worship and a city landmark.
Cathédrale de Ouagadougou
Catholic cathedral that serves as a key spiritual and architectural site in the capital.
Église Saint-Pierre de Ouagadougou
Historic church known for its community gatherings and events.
National & Theme Parks
Green spaces and protected areas offering respite from the bustle of the city.
Parc Urbain Bangr-Weoogo
Urban green space with walking trails, ponds and shaded areas for a relaxed stroll.
W National Park (regional proximity)
Part of Burkina Faso’s network of protected areas, ideal for wildlife viewing on day trips.
Laongo Granite Sculpture Park
Open-air sculpture park featuring striking granite formations and art pieces.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant districts where you can feel the pulse of the city and see daily life unfold.
Centre-ville (Downtown Ouagadougou)
Historic core with markets, shops and lively street life.
Ouaga 2000
Modern, planned district with newer architecture and parks.
Bogodogo District
One of the larger residential and commercial areas showing contemporary Ouaga life.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to soak in the city’s atmosphere without breaking the budget.
Stroll the Grand Marché and surrounding lanes
Browse a maze of stalls and observe daily commerce, bustling and colorful.
Sunset walk along Place de la Nation area
Watch the city settle as lights come on and the atmosphere shifts.
Walk along Avenue Kwame Nkrumah (central boulevards)
A pleasant route for a casual stroll and people-watching.
Gastronomy
Tasting Burkinabé flavors and street-food staples that define Ouagadougou.
Dolo tasting at a local maquis
Sample millet beer and simple grilled dishes in a traditional setting.
Burkina Faso street kebabs
Enjoy skewered meat and spice-driven snacks from street vendors.
Poulet braisé and tô over rice
Common, comforting dishes you’ll find at neighborhood eateries.
Nightlife
Evenings in Ouagadougou bring music, bars and traditional nightlife venues.
Maquis (local traditional eateries with music)
Casual venues offering local food, drinks and live rhythms.
Night markets and street music corners
Relaxed spots where local musicians perform informally.
Concert venues around the Centre-ville
Occasional live music events featuring Burkinabé artists.
Entertainment
Cultural happenings and performances that showcase Burkina Faso’s arts scene.
Theatre and cultural shows at La Maison du Peuple
Evening performances spanning drama, music and dance.
Cinema screenings in central Ouagadougou
Local and regional films shown in city cinemas.
Cultural exhibitions at pop-up venues
Rotating showcases of photography, sculpture and craft.
Sports
Active ways to engage with Ouagadougou’s sports culture.
Stade du 4 Août (football matches)
Attend a domestic league game or training session.
Casual jogs along central boulevards
Popular activity for locals and visitors alike.
Public basketball and street sports parks
Open-air courts for a quick game or a friendly match.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and less-touristy experiences for more adventurous visitors.
Visit a local artisans’ village for crafts
See traditional crafts being made and purchase handmade souvenirs.
Rural day-trip to nearby towns (market day)
Experience rural life, markets and local food.
Bike or tuk-tuk tour of lesser-known streets
A slow, immersive way to discover everyday Ouagadougou.