Best things to do in Ouagadougou

Ouagadougou Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Things to Do, and Why “Ouaga” Might Just Steal Your Heart

Try saying Ouagadougou three times fast—don’t worry, locals just call it Ouaga (and you can too). As the capital of Burkina Faso and the country's cultural, administrative, and economic heart, Ouagadougou might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning your next adventure—but that's exactly why you should go.

Ouaga is a city that wears its culture with pride, dishes out charm with a side of dusty roads, and surprises you with art, music, and a warm welcome that will have you wondering why more people aren’t talking about it. If you’re into off-the-radar destinations with soul, this travel guide to Ouagadougou is for you.

A City with Royal Roots

Ouagadougou isn’t just a cool name—it has a royal legacy too. Historically, it was the epicenter of the powerful Mossi Kingdom of Wagadugu, one of West Africa’s most prominent pre-colonial empires. Today, echoes of that rich history still shape the city, from traditional Mossi villages to royal courts that continue to play an important cultural role.

Things to Do in Ouagadougou: History, Nature, and Music with a Beat

This isn’t your average concrete capital—Ouaga is bursting with vibrant color, music, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you're into sightseeing, diving into local history, or just vibing with the rhythm of African drums, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Ouagadougou.

Bangr Weogo Urban Park

Let’s start with some greenery. Bangr Weogo Park (which means "urban forest" in Mooré) is a massive oasis right in the middle of the city. Think jogging trails, shady picnic spots, and even a small zoo—all great for taking a breather from the bustle. It's one of the top places to visit in Ouagadougou for nature lovers and families.

Mossi Village of Kokologho

Want a taste of traditional Mossi life? Head to Kokologho, a nearby village that offers a fascinating glimpse into Burkina Faso's cultural roots. From ancient architecture to traditional ceremonies, it's a must for cultural sightseeing and a deeper understanding of the Mossi heritage.

National Museum of Music

This one’s music to your ears—literally. The National Museum of Music is a treasure trove of traditional West African instruments, from flutes and koras to balafons and drums. You may not leave playing like a local, but you’ll definitely gain a deeper appreciation for Burkina Faso’s musical soul.

Places to Visit in Ouagadougou for Culture and Creativity

Ouagadougou isn’t just a historical hub—it’s also one of West Africa’s liveliest cultural capitals. The city hosts the famous FESPACO (Pan-African Film and Television Festival), a biennial celebration that turns Ouaga into a cinematic hotspot. Art galleries, music venues, and local crafts markets are sprinkled throughout the city, making it one of the most creatively charged destinations in the region.

If you’re up for souvenir shopping, don’t miss the Village Artisanal de Ouagadougou, a one-stop spot for handmade jewelry, carvings, textiles, and that woven basket you’ll pretend you know how to use when you get home.

A Final Word on Ouaga: Quirky, Cultural, and Surprisingly Cool

Sure, it’s not the flashiest capital in Africa, but Ouagadougou has a quiet confidence and a deep cultural heartbeat that’s impossible to ignore. It’s a city where ancient traditions meet modern creativity, and every dusty street corner might surprise you with a drumbeat, a smile, or a sculptor hard at work.

Whether you’re exploring top attractions, uncovering the city’s royal roots, or just strolling with a grilled brochette in hand, Ouaga offers an experience that’s real, warm, and unforgettable.

• Mossi Village Kokologo

  Located in the central western part of Burkina Faso, the Mossi Village Kokologo was built in 1942 to serve as the Palace of the King. With several huts surrounding the palace itself, the village has been properly maintained to be one of the city’s main attractions. A visit will widen your knowledge of the Burkina Faso but most especially about the Mossi people.

• Bangr Weogo Park

  For a dose of Burkina Faso’s natural side, visit the Bangr Weogo Park. The 240 hectares natural reserve offers something different from the rest of the city, there is no shortage of activities to engaged in at park - it features different trails for walking through its savannah and botanical gardens. However, its primary attraction remains its large array of wild animals such as giraffes and antelopes. Surrounding the park are numerous restaurants and bars where you can relax after exploring all the park has to offer.

• Ouagadougou Cathedral

  Situated in the middle of the city is the Ouagadougou Cathedral, the historic cathedral was the brainchild of Apostolic Vicar Joanny Thevenoud and it was established in the 1930s. Regarded as the largest cathedral in the country it was built using mainly mud bricks with its designs similar to cathedrals found in Europe. At the back of the Cathedral is an altar dedicated to Mary, with a stone statue depicting her. 

• National Museum of Music

  Music has always been a huge part of Burkina Faso’s culture and the National Museum of Music was established to display and educate people on the country's musical history. Situated in a two-story building on Oubritenga Avenue, which is at the center of the city making accessibility to the museum effortless. The museum features all types of musical instruments including membranophones, idiophones, chordophones and areophones. It is a must visit for music lovers.

• International Art and Craft Fair

  Known as SIAO (Le Salon International de L Artisanat de Ouagadougou), it is one of the biggest shows in the county. Held every two years it was set up to promote the country’s arts and crafts culture and in the process improve the nation’s economy. It is a major tourist attraction and it gives visitors not only a chance to buy some works displayed but an avenue to immerse themselves in the culture of Burkina Faso.

• National Museum

  Arguably one of the most important places in the city of Ouagadougou, the National Museum established in 1962 focuses on displaying the nation’s history and culture. It holds a number of artifacts linking to the country’s heritage including various masks, ancient statues and traditional costumes of most of Burkina Faso’s ethnic groups.

Best places to stay in Ouagadougou

Burkina Faso tours featuring Ouagadougou