Can You Drink Tap Water in Burkina Faso?

Tap water in Burkina Faso is not safe to drink for visitors. The country has severely underdeveloped water infrastructure, with the Office National de l'Eau et de l'Assainissement (ONEA) operating treatment systems in Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso but unable to provide reliable quality throughout the distribution network. Most expatriates and visitors use bottled water throughout their stay.

Ouagadougou, the capital, is the country's largest city and main point of entry. The city has a treated water supply but pipe condition and supply consistency vary. Hotels provide bottled or filtered water for guests. Bottled water is available in supermarkets and shops throughout the capital. Bobo-Dioulasso, the second city in the southwest, has a more pleasant climate and similarly limited but functional water infrastructure.

Burkina Faso has faced a severe security crisis since 2015, with jihadist insurgencies spreading from Mali affecting large parts of the country's north, east, and Sahel regions. As of 2024, most governments advise against travel to large portions of the country, and tourist infrastructure in affected areas has essentially collapsed. The security situation has significantly limited travel to Burkina Faso and affected water infrastructure maintenance in conflict zones.

The Sindou Peaks and Karfiguella waterfall in the southwest near Bobo-Dioulasso were among the country's most visited natural attractions before the security crisis. These areas in the southwest remain more accessible than the north, though travellers should check current security guidance before any visit.

Use sealed bottled water throughout Burkina Faso. For any travel outside Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso, carry a portable filter. Security conditions must be thoroughly assessed before any travel to the country, as large areas are effectively off-limits to visitors.