Houndé - Discovering Burkina Faso

Travelling to Houndé

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Houndé, a pretty good destination in Burkina Faso (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Houndé and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Houndé, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Burkina Faso, here's everything to know about Houndé for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Houndé

Houndé is a town located in southwestern Burkina Faso. It is the capital of the Tuy province and has a population of around 30,000 people. Houndé is known for its gold mining activities and is surrounded by natural reserves and wildlife. The town has a tropical savanna climate with two distinct seasons- a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The main languages spoken in Houndé are French and Dioula.

What to visit in Houndé

Houndé is a beautiful town in Burkina Faso that has many tourist attractions. Here are some of the top attractions in Houndé with some information about each of them.
1. Royal Palace of Houndé - It is an ancient palace that belonged to the kings of Houndé. The palace is made of mud bricks and is a marvel of construction. The interior of the palace has been converted into a museum that showcases the traditional way of life of the people of Houndé.
2. Houndé Mosque - It is an 18th-century mosque that is a fine example of the Sudano-Sahelian style of architecture. The mosque is made of mud and wooden poles covered in mud plaster. It has an open courtyard with a rectangular prayer hall and a mihrab facing east.
3. Mount Ninga - It is a beautiful mountain range that runs through the center of the town. The mountain range offers a stunning view of the town and the surrounding countryside. It is a great place for hiking, trekking, and enjoying nature.
4. Lake Tengrela - It is a beautiful lake located about 50 km south of Houndé. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and is home to many species of birds and aquatic animals. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, fishing, and bird watching in the area.
5. Cascades de Karfiguéla - It is a series of waterfalls located about 60 km east of Houndé. The waterfalls are a popular tourist attraction and offer a refreshing respite from the heat of the region. Visitors can swim in the natural swimming pools at the bottom of the falls.
6. La Forêt Classée de Boussouma - It is a protected forest located about 40 km south of Houndé. The forest is home to many species of plants and animals, including some rare and endangered species. Visitors can go on guided tours to explore the forest and learn about its importance in the region. These are some of the top tourist attractions in Houndé. Visitors can also explore the local markets, interact with the friendly locals, and try the delicious local cuisine.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Burkina Faso, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Houndé

The best time to visit Houndé, Burkina Faso is during the dry season which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm with little to no rainfall, making it perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. However, if you prefer a quieter and less crowded travel experience, consider going during the wet season which runs from June to September. Just be aware that this is the rainy season and some activities may be affected due to the rainfall.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Houndé

The most common way to get to Houndé, Burkina Faso is to fly into the country's capital, Ouagadougou, and then take a taxi or bus to Houndé. The Ouagadougou International Airport (OUA) serves many international and domestic flights. From the airport, you can book a taxi or take a bus to Houndé, which is about a 5-6 hour drive southwest of Ouagadougou. Alternatively, you can also take a domestic flight from Ouagadougou to Bobo-Dioulasso and then take a taxi or bus to Houndé, which is about 2 hours away.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Houndé, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Houndé

Houndé is a city located in Burkina Faso, known for its rich cuisine. Some of the typical foods served in Houndé include: 1. Riz gras: A flavorful rice dish made with tomatoes, onions, and various spices, typically served with meat or fish.
2. Tô: A starchy, porridge-like dish made from fermented millet or sorghum.
3. Poulet bicyclette: A popular dish consisting of roast chicken, seasoned with a mix of spices and served with an array of vegetables.
4. Tô biiga: A variation of tô made from maize or corn, typically served with a sauce of roasted groundnuts or peanuts.
5. Attieke: A side dish made from cassava, grated and soaked in water, then flavored with onions, tomatoes, and chilies.
6. Koko: A sweet, spicy cornmeal porridge typically eaten for breakfast, flavored with ginger and sometimes served with milk.
7. Poulet yassa: A dish consisting of grilled or fried chicken marinated in a spicy lemon-onion sauce.
8. Thiéboudienne: A popular fish-based dish made with rice and vegetables, typically served with a flavorful tomato sauce.
9. Ragoût de boeuf: A hearty beef stew made with potatoes, carrots, and various spices.
10. Fufu: A starchy dish made from cassava, yams, or plantains that is mashed into a dense, dough-like consistency and served with soups or stews.
You can find general info about typical foods in Burkina Faso here.

Is Houndé an expensive destination for tourists?

Houndé (Burkina Faso) is not a very popular tourist destination, so prices can be quite reasonable. However, it is important to keep in mind that expenses can quickly add up, especially if you are planning to explore the area and visit nearby attractions. Accommodation and transportation are generally affordable, but food and drink costs can be higher than in other parts of Burkina Faso due to limited availability and a smaller local market. Also, keep in mind that the cost of visas, vaccinations and insurance may add up.
It is always a good idea to research the cost of living in Houndé before your trip, establish a travel budget, and set aside some extra money in case of unexpected expenses or emergencies.

Where to find accomodation in Houndé

In Houndé, some of the best areas to find accommodation would be in the city center, near the Houndé market, or close to the mine site if you are visiting for business purposes. There are several hotels and guesthouses in these areas that offer comfortable accommodations and are conveniently located near restaurants, shops, and other amenities. It is recommended to research and book accommodations in advance as there are limited options available in Houndé.
You can check hotel prices at Houndé here:
Booking.com

Is Houndé a safe destination for tourists?

Houndé (Burkina Faso) is generally considered safe for tourists, but like any other destination, it pays to take extra precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Travelers should be aware of their surroundings at all times, avoid displaying signs of wealth or carrying large amounts of cash, and stay updated on local news and events. It's important to follow government travel advisories and to consult with a trusted travel agent or tour operator for additional information and guidance. It's also advisable to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, theft, and trip cancellations.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Burkina Faso here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Houndé.

What type of travelers will enjoy Houndé the most?

Houndé, located in Burkina Faso, can be enjoyed by travelers of all types! However, it offers a range of experiences that may appeal more to certain groups of travelers: 1. Couples: Houndé is a great destination for couples who are looking for a romantic and culturally-rich getaway. They can explore the traditional architecture of the city, take long nature walks, and visit the local markets to immerse themselves in the local culture.
2. Young people: Houndé offers a number of outdoor activities, such as hiking and mountain biking, that may be particularly appealing to young people. Additionally, the city is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and nightclubs to choose from.
3. Families: Families with children can enjoy the many cultural and historic sites in the city, such as the local museums and art galleries. They can also enjoy the rich culinary scene with local food and beverages, which will be an incredible experience for the entire family.
Overall, Houndé has something to offer for everyone, regardless of the type of traveler you are.

How to get around Houndé

The most common form of transportation in Houndé, Burkina Faso is by motorcycle taxis, also known as "zemidjans". There are also some taxis available, as well as city buses. However, motorcycle taxis are the most efficient and widely used means of transportation in the city.

What to see around Houndé

Here are a few nice places you can visit in a day trip from Houndé: 1. Les Cascades de Karfiguela: This is a beautiful waterfall located about 35 km from Houndé. You can go swimming, picnicking, or just enjoy the scenery.
2. La Forêt Sacrée de Kofinabé: This is a sacred forest with many ancient trees and a peaceful ambiance. It's about 20 km from Houndé.
3. Le Ranch de Nazinga: This is a wildlife reserve located about 100 km from Houndé where you can see elephants, lions, and other animals in their natural habitat.
4. La Mosquée de Bobo-Dioulasso: This is a famous mosque located in Bobo-Dioulasso, which is about 90 km from Houndé. It's a beautiful mosque with a unique architecture and is definitely worth the visit.
5. La Réserve Naturelle de Gouleako: This is another wildlife reserve located about 80 km from Houndé. It's a great place to see some rare bird species and other wildlife.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Burkina Faso you can click here.

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