Ouagadougou Weather in January

Dry-season days

January is one of Ouagadougou's best months for getting out and seeing the city. Days are hot and sunny, but the air is dry, and rain is almost absent. You'll feel the heat most in the afternoon, so museums and shaded stops suit that part of the day better than long walks.

Mornings work well for exploring the National Museum or strolling around central Ouaga. The evenings are cooler, making dinner outdoors more comfortable. Try local tô, a soft millet or sorghum dish, with sauce at a small restaurant. Don't expect a beach break or green countryside; this is a dry, dusty time of year.

Holidays and crowds

New Year's Day is a public holiday in Burkina Faso. Some shops and offices may close, so check locally before making a special trip. January isn't known for a major annual festival in Ouagadougou; FESPACO, the city's film festival, is usually held in February or March.

If you hate crowds, January is still a fairly easy time to visit. It's part of the dry-season travel period, though, so you may find more visitors than during the rainy months. Prices can also be firmer than in the quieter wet season, especially for popular hotels. The city itself rarely feels like a packed resort.

Make the most of the morning

Travelling with kids? Take them to Bangr-Weoogo Urban Park early, when walking its shaded paths feels more pleasant. The park is a welcome break from traffic and dusty streets, but the midday sun can make a visit tiring.

For a practical local tip, use the cooler morning for Bangr-Weoogo, then return to the city centre for lunch. January brings plenty of sunshine, so outdoor sightseeing is best before the strongest heat sets in. In the afternoon, choose an indoor stop rather than pushing through a long walk.