× title-placeholder message-placeholder 🛖 TakeYourBackpack.com find your next backpacking destination covering all countries in the world extensive info per country personal stories and photos learn how to backpack like a pro Skip to main content home advisor destinations Africa Asia Europe North America South America Oceania All countries Where to go? inspiration Photos & stories World cities Famous hikes National parks Best beaches Famous festivals World wonders UNESCO sites All highlights planning search bucketlist Burkina Faso 🇧🇫 Banfora Cascades Hike the Banfora Cascades, Burkina Faso. Check things to see along the trail and best time to go Explore Festival of Masks and Arts in Dédougou Explore Domes de Fabedougou Intro | Highlights | Map | Best time to go | Where to stay? | Details | Guide | Burkina Faso | FAQ | What to expect when backpacking in Banfora Cascades Banfora Cascades is a gem tucked away in Burkina Faso, offering a mix of stunning scenery and a dose of adventure. The hike is about 5 kilometers round trip, and while it’s not overly strenuous, some sections can be rocky and steep, so a decent pair of shoes is a must. Getting there is relatively straightforward; you can catch a bush taxi from Banfora, which makes the journey feel like part of the experience. The cascades themselves are breathtaking, especially during the rainy season when the water flows with gusto. However, compared to other hikes in the region, like the more challenging trails around the Sindou Peaks, Banfora Cascades feels a bit tamer, making it a solid choice for those looking for a more relaxed trek without sacrificing beauty. Just be prepared for the occasional crowd—this spot is popular for a reason! Discover everything you want to know in the 📖  Burkina Faso Travel Guide . Best time to go: November – April Duration: 1 to 2 hours Distance: 6 kilometers Total ascent: 200 meters Safety warning The current risk level for Burkina Faso is high. Check the advice before going. Get your Burkina Faso Travel Guide 💡 Top Highlights Best things to see along Banfora Cascades Burkina Faso Grab your own Travelguide for only Grande Cascade (Karfiguéla Falls) — The main drop: a thunderous waterfall that pours into a deep pool. It’s what you hike there for — especially spectacular after rains when the Komoé swells and the roar and spray are unforgettable. Cliff-top viewpoints — Short scrambles lead to ledges that look down over the falls and the patchwork of rice fields and savanna beyond. The light at dawn or late afternoon makes for wide, cinematic panoramas you don’t get on most forest-only trails. Natural pools and rock slides — Series of calm basins and smooth sandstone runs where locals and travelers cool off. It’s equal parts swimming hole and playground, and feels very different from alpine or desert hikes. Gallery forest and riverside wildlife — A narrow, lush corridor of trees hugs the river, creating a green tunnel in the dry landscape. Expect kingfishers, herons, noisy monkeys and lots of butterflies — nice biodiversity contrast to the open plains nearby. Village life, rice paddies and cultural stops — The trail weaves past small farming communities irrigating from the falls; you’ll see traditional rice terraces, fishermen, and women at work. Those human elements make the walk social and grounded — not just scenic, but a window into daily life around the cascades. Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact me. To view the map, please enable javascript Loading the map 🌍 CLICK TO FILTER city town unique site national park hike festival region show all 🌤️ When to Go? Best Time to visit Banfora Cascades Hiking the Banfora Cascades is a real treat, but timing is everything. The best months to hit the trails are between November and March. During this period, temperatures are a lot more manageable, usually hovering around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). If you go outside this window, be prepared for some serious heat, with summer months pushing past 35°C (95°F) and feeling like you’re walking through a sauna. Early mornings are prime time for tackling the hike. Not only is it cooler, but the light is perfect for snapping some stunning photos of the cascades before the sun gets too intense. Plus, you’ll likely avoid the crowds that tend to show up later in the day. Pro tip: Bring plenty of water and some snacks. The trails can be a bit rugged, and you don’t want to find yourself running low on energy when you’re trying to enjoy those beautiful views. A small portable water filter can be a lifesaver, too, just in case you run out. Happy hiking! JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 🛏️ Where to Stay? Best Places to Stay in Banfora Cascades If you enjoy meeting fellow travelers, consider choosing hostels with high ratings for atmosphere. On the other hand, if you prefer having your own space, a hotel might be a better option. Best hostels in Burkina Faso Best quality hotels in Burkina Faso 🥾 Get Your Walking Shoes Trail Details of Banfora Cascades Total Distance: The Banfora Cascades trail covers approximately 4 kilometers (about 2.5 miles) round trip. It’s a manageable distance that can be tackled in a few hours, making it perfect for a half-day adventure. Estimated Duration: Plan for around 2 to 3 hours to complete the hike. This includes time to soak in the views and maybe take a dip in the pools, so don’t rush it! Difficulty Level: The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. While there are some rocky sections and a few steep spots, it’s mostly accessible for most hikers. Just wear sturdy shoes to navigate the terrain comfortably. … read more 👉 Total Distance: The Banfora Cascades trail covers approximately 4 kilometers (about 2.5 miles) round trip. It’s a manageable distance that can be tackled in a few hours, making it perfect for a half-day adventure. Estimated Duration: Plan for around 2 to 3 hours to complete the hike. This includes time to soak in the views and maybe take a dip in the pools, so don’t rush it! Difficulty Level: The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. While there are some rocky sections and a few steep spots, it’s mostly accessible for most hikers. Just wear sturdy shoes to navigate the terrain comfortably. Starting Point: You can start your hike from the town of Banfora. To get there by public transport, hop on a bus or shared taxi from Ouagadougou. The journey takes about 8 to 10 hours, so bring snacks and water. Once in Banfora, you can take a moto-taxi or walk to the trailhead, which is about 10 kilometers from the town center. Major Landmarks Along the Route: Banfora Cascades: The main attraction, a series of stunning waterfalls where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Lake Tengrela: A nearby lake that’s worth a visit, especially if you’re into birdwatching. Rock Formations: Unique geological features along the way that make for great photo ops. Type of Terrain and Scenery: The trail features a mix of rocky paths, dirt trails, and occasional steep climbs. You’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, rocky outcrops, and, of course, the beautiful cascades. The sound of water flowing adds a nice touch to the overall experience. Typical Vegetation and Wildlife: Expect to see a variety of plants, including tall grasses, shrubs, and some trees typical of the West African savannah. Wildlife can include birds, small mammals, and maybe even some monkeys if you’re lucky. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful butterflies fluttering around! This trail is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Burkina Faso, so grab your gear and enjoy the hike! ⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that’s off, I’d love to hear from you,so I can update it for fellow travelers. ✈️ Get your own digital guidebook Burkina Faso Travel Guide Discover the best Burkina Faso has to offer — handpicked hikes, must-see cities, hidden gems, local festivals, and more. All in one handy downloadable pdf Burkina Faso 158 pages full of highlights ✅ Why visit & When to go ✅ 52 must-see highlights ✅ 21-day country itinerary ✅ Top hikes & National parks ▼ More inside ✅ Best areas to stay ✅ History of country & cities ✅ Essential phrases & customs ✅ Key festivals & Events ✅ Money, food & transport Get your Guide Now Start planning today! 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Explore Burkina Faso Banfora Cascades isn’t the only highlight in Burkina Faso. Explore all what Burkina Faso has to offer. 🌆 Cities        Compare the top best cities : Bobo-Dioulasso, Banfora, Ouagadougou, see all 🏡 Towns        Compare the top best towns : Nouna, Orodara, Fada N’gourma , see all ⭐️ Unique sites        Compare the top best wonders : Cascades de Karfiguéla, Royal Court of Tiébélé, Lac de Tengrela, see all 🏞️ National parks        Compare the top best parks : W, Arly, Kabore Tambi, see all 🚶‍♀️ Hikes        Compare the top best hikes : Banfora Cascades, Karfiguéla Waterfalls Trail, Sindou Peaks, see all 🎎 Festivals        Compare the top best festivals : FESPACO, SIAO, Jazz à Ouaga, see all 🏝️ Regions        Compare the top best regions : Gourma, Namentenga, see all Explore Burkina Faso ✈️ Ready to Go? Banfora Cascades FAQ Get your own 2025 guide book for Burkina Faso The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure. Burkina Faso Grab your own Travelguide for only How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Banfora Cascades? Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus. Best hostels in Burkina Faso Best quality hotels in Burkina Faso What should I pack for a backpacking trip to Burkina Faso? Burkina Faso is all about hot days and cooler nights, especially from November to February, so think layers. The terrain’s mostly flat savannah, with some hills, so sturdy shoes are a must if you’re planning to trek around. Rainy season hits June to September, so a lightweight rain jacket could be a lifesaver. Culturally, modesty is key—cover those shoulders and knees when you’re out and about. Apart from this country specific advice, I have also crafted a general packing list that should help on any trip. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere. Money & Documents Passport, visa (originals + some photo copies) Passport photographs Credit and debit cards (on world profile) Cash (US$ or €) Money belt Vaccination proofs Clothing Light, quick-dry clothing No jeans, too heavy Ultralight rain/wind jacket Thermo underwear Quick-dry towel Sunglasses Electronics Mobile phone + charger Power bank Travel adapter Local sim card (buy it on arrival) Health Toothbrush Deo Sunscreen, lips sunburn Anti-diarrhea Paracetamol Vitamin C Blister plasters Iodine (for desinfecting wounds) Anti-mosquito (DEET) Bit of emergency toilet paper Nail scissors Others Small number lock Waterproof packing cubes (for dirty clothes) Deck of cards(!) Ear plugs Travel pillow Spare glasses/contacts Kobo reader Moneybelt “Best way to carry your important documents” Light Backpack “Handy, lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who travel light” Large Backpack “Waterproof large lightweight backpack, excellent for backpackers who want to bring a lot” Outlander daypack “Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack, available in many colours” Carry on Backpack 40L “Whenever you can, travel with just carry-on luggage, saves costs and makes traveling much easier” Quick dry pant “Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling” Light rain jacket “Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry” Thermo underwear “Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets” Quick dry towel “Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling” Travel adapter “Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs” Number lock “No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories” Packing cubes “Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest” Travel pillow “Light and great for flights and long bus journeys” Lightweight, small mosquito net “Easy to carry, great for those nights where mosquitos are all around you” Kobo Reader “For reading 1.000s of books while carrying only one” Power bank “Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more” DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlogging Camera “The camera for quick videos while traveling” Waterproof action camera “Great action camera for outdoor active enthousiasts” Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D Compact Camera “When you need a large optical zoom (e.g. for safaris), look no further. The Lumix has a massive 20-1200mm zoom lens” Go Pro “The absolute champion in action videos” Ultra light tent “With only 1.08kg (2.38 pounds) this one is just the best you can get.” Ultra light sleeping airbed “Ultra light, still very comfortable and isolating!” Vitamin C “Vitamin C pills to compensate for less balanced food” Blister Plasters “Blister plasters for those long hikes” Iodine “Iodine for self desinfecting small open wounds” Mosquito repellant “Let‘s give those mosquito‘s no chance with 98% DEET” Got more questions? See the FAQ for all questions and answers for backpacking in Burkina Faso. I 💚 feedback Final Thoughts When you’re at the Banfora Cascades, take a moment to just breathe it all in—the sound of the water and the lush surroundings create a vibe that feels almost magical. Don’t skip the hike to the viewpoint; the view is a stunning surprise. Just a heads up, the trail can get slippery, so wear decent shoes. Trust me, it’s worth every step! 🫱 Share this page 🙋‍♂️ Give feedback last page update: 23 November 2025 Take  Your  Backpack Home Advisor Destinations Inspiration Planning Search To sign up for the nesletter, please enable javascript STAY UP TO DATE Sign up for the newsletter Africa Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Côte d’Ivoire Dem. Rep. of the Congo Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Eswatini Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Madagascar Malawi Mali Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Republic of the Congo Réunion Rwanda São Tomé and Príncipe Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Asia Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Türkiye (Turkey) Turkmenistan United Arab Emirates Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Europe Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia & Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czechia (Czech Republic) Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Türkiye (Turkey) Ukraine United Kingdom Vatican City State North  America Antigua and Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Belize British Virgin Islands Canada Cayman Islands Costa Rica Cuba Dominica Dominican Republic El Salvador Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Haiti Honduras Jamaica Martinique Mexico Nicaragua Panama Puerto Rico Saint Barthélemy Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Sint Maarten Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands United States United States Virgin Islands Oceania American Samoa Australia Cook Islands East Timor Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Palau Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Timor-Leste Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu South  America Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Curaçao Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Cookies | About me To use these links, please enable javascript © takeyourbackpack.com | Contact To contact me enable javascript