Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in west Africa, is one of the safest and friendliest countries in all of Africa. While it only receives a small number of tourists each year, it is an excellent destination for anyone interested in exploring African culture and music.

One of the best cities in the country to visit is Bobo Dioulasso. Famous for its nightlife, the city is also known for its Djembé music that originally came from this region. The beautiful Grande Mosque, in the old part of town, is a good example of Sudanese mudbrick architecture with its towers and wooden struts. The best time to visit is at sunset when the facade turns a golden color and the locals pass by pausing for prayer. Le Grande Marche is a huge, colorful market that offers just about everything you need to live in Burkina Faso. From cloth to plastic buckets and jewelry to gas lamps as well as a selection of fruits and vegetables, the market is great for picking up souvenirs. The food selection in Burkina Faso is very seasonal. Visitors in June and July must try the caterpillars known as “chenilles.” The caterpillars come fried and can be eaten crunchy like french fries or put in a baguette as a sandwich.

In Burkina Faso, it is a good idea to greet everyone you pass by as ignoring someone and not greeting them is taken far more seriously than in western cultures. It is virtually a slap in the face to ignore someone that has greeted you. It is also important to always use your right hand when eating, greeting, offering gifts or paying for items. This is because the left hand is used throughout the country in conjunction with water in place of toilet paper. Colored plastic teapots are filled with water and carried to the bathroom for “wiping.” The water is not safe to drink and untreated well water is often the norm. It’s a good idea to bring a water filter for emergency use especially if you’re planning on spending time in any villages.

A visa is required to enter Burkina Faso and travelers should obtain the travel visa in advance. Travelers should always take precautions when traveling, but Burkina Faso is a remarkably safe and respectful country. Foreigners, especially white foreigners, frequently attract significant attention. The interest is mainly to sell you stuff. Women travelers rarely experience any problems. Yellow fever vaccination is required. Malaria is a serious problem, so be sure to begin taking prophylaxis prior to leaving for Burkina Faso and continue taking it while there and even after returning home. Cholera vaccination may be required in event of outbreak. Meningitis is also a problem and vaccination is highly suggested. Be sure to talk to your own doctor to confirm all requirements.

IMAGES VIA: qiv and TinouBurkina on flickr