Overview

Security Status

Do not Travel

Latest Travel Alert

We advise against all travel to Burkina Faso.

Since Friday 30 September there have been credible accounts of civil unrest in Ouagadougou. There have also been reports of attacks against European targets in the city.

The situation remains unclear and could deteriorate. Citizens are asked to stay in a safe place, monitor the situation carefully and observe any local curfews or restrictions. People should also prepare to leave the country, if possible, at short notice.

If not already done, please ensure to register your presence in Burkina Faso with the Irish Embassy in Abuja, Nigeria here.

Travel to Burkina Faso

Ouagadougou International Airport and Bobo-Dioulasso Airport are operating with limited international commercial flights. Check with your travel company for the latest information. Land borders are closed.

COVID-19 requirements:

All international arrivals in Burkina Faso will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate dated no more than 5 days prior to arrival in Burkina Faso.

Passengers without a negative PCR test dated to no more than 5 days prior to arrival in Burkina Faso will have their identity documents temporarily confiscated and will be required to take an RDT AND a PCR test at their own expense. Mandatory hotel quarantine may be required at the passenger’s expense pending on the results of the tests.

All passengers departing Burkina Faso will need to present a negative PCR test certificate dated no more than 5 days prior to departure.

You should comply with any additional screening measures put in place by the authorities and stay up to date with information from your tour operator, transport or accommodation provider on the impact on any existing travel plans. Wearing face masks in public places is mandatory in Burkina Faso.

If you think you have COVID-19 symptoms, you should call the government hotlines +226 01 60 89 89 / +226 52 19 53 94 / +226 70 95 93 27. Isolation is compulsory for those who have tested positive for coronavirus, and two-week quarantine for anyone who has had physical contact with a confirmed case.

General Travel Advice

Citizens should be aware that political instability continues in Burkina Faso, that the situation is tense and liable to change at short notice. The Department advises citizens to exercise extreme caution if in the country, stay indoors, be aware of their surroundings and monitor local media for updates. There is the strong potential for the security situation to deteriorate without warning.

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. There is a credible risk that terrorist groups based inside and outside the country may carry out attacks, such as shootings, bombings, and kidnappings. Attacks could be indiscriminate, and may target places where foreigners gather, such as hotels and restaurants in the capital. On 26 April 2021, an Irish citizen and two Spanish citizens were killed in an ambush while travelling between Fada-N’Gourma and Pama. In June 2021, 160 people were killed in an attack on Solhan in north-eastern Burkina Faso. Further attacks are possible.

You should exercise caution and avoid large political rallies and gatherings, areas of demonstrations and protests. Crowds can gather quickly and may become violent. In the event of unrest monitor local media and follow instructions and announcements from the local authorities.