burkina faso
Why Film in burkina faso?
Burkina Faso is a great place for filmmakers. It has many filming locations, from lively cities to beautiful natural landscapes. The country’s history, traditional villages, and open plains create an authentic African setting. Whether you are filming the busy streets of Ouagadougou, the unique rock formations of Sindou Peaks, or the calm waters of Lake Tengrela, Burkina Faso offers a stunning backdrop for your story.
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Capital City
Ouagadougou
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Main Languages
French (official), Mossi, Dyula, Fulfulde
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Currency
West African CFA Franc (XOF)
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Weather
Burkina Faso has two main seasons. The rainy season (May–October) has high humidity and frequent rain. The dry season (November–March) is hot but offers clear skies, making it the best time for filming.
Top Filming Locations
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Ouagadougou
The capital city has modern buildings, traditional markets, and colonial-style architecture, making it a great filming location.
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Bobo-Dioulasso
Known for its rich culture, lively music scene, and the historic Grand Mosque, this city has a vibrant atmosphere.
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Sindou Peaks
These unique rock formations create a dramatic landscape, perfect for adventure and fantasy films.
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Banfora Waterfalls
A beautiful series of waterfalls surrounded by greenery, ideal for nature-focused shoots.
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Lake Tengrela
A peaceful lake with hippos and birds, offering a scenic setting for wildlife documentaries.
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Loropéni Ruins
A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient stone structures, adding historical depth to any film.
Visa Requirements
International crew members need a visa before entering Burkina Faso. The process includes:
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Required Documentation
Valid international passport (minimum six months validity), Standard passport-sized photos, Health and travel insurance, International Yellow Fever vaccination card Hotel booking confirmation (minimum of 3 nights), Invitation letter from a local contact, Return flight ticket
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Timings
10 to 20 days
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Cost
$350
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Additional Requirements
Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for entry.
International Crew Accreditation
For large productions and government-related projects, crew accreditation is needed.
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Required Documentation
Valid international passport, Approved visa, Project synopsis
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Timings
5 to 10 working days
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Cost
$500 per person (may be waived for private projects)
General Film Permit
The Ministry of Communications, Arts, and Culture issues film permits, which must be obtained before filming starts.
Drone Permit
Drone regulations in Burkina Faso are strict, especially near security-sensitive areas.
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Importation Regulations
Generally not permitted; local drone operators are preferred.
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Permit Issuance
Ministry of Aviation
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Required Documentation
Project synopsis, Coordinates of filming locations
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Timings
14 to 30 working days
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Cost
$1,000 to $3,000, depending on project scope and location
Equipment Customs Clearance
Burkina Faso does not use the Carnet system, so special customs clearance is required for filming gear.
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Clearance Process
A detailed list of equipment, including serial numbers, must be submitted before arrival.
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Required Documentation
Customs authorities require a full gear list with estimated values, used to calculate a refundable bond deposit before equipment is allowed into the country.
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Issuing Organization
Burkina Faso Customs Authority
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Timings
1 to 3 working days
Safety and Security
Security considerations are crucial when filming in Burkina Faso. While Ouagadougou remains a central hub for production, certain areas of the country present heightened security risks.
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Security Considerations
Crime risks, including armed robbery, are more prevalent in rural areas and on the outskirts of Ouagadougou.
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Recommended Security Measures
For higher-risk locations, armed security personnel, such as soldiers, are recommended to ensure crew and equipment safety. Taking necessary precautions will help mitigate risks and ensure a smooth filming experience.
A Resilient Nation Through the Lens
In a testament to this determination, the Pan-African Film Festival opened in the capital, Ouagadougou, in October 2021, defying pandemic challenges and security concerns. The festival underscores Burkina Faso’s commitment to its film industry, emphasising the employment opportunities it generates, even in challenging times.
The documentaries showcased at the festival offer a unique glimpse into the country’s struggles and triumphs. “Kadoua and The Elephants,” set in the impoverished south, explores biodiversity preservation amid deforestation and terrorist attacks. “The Man Who Stopped The Desert,” released in 2010, tells the remarkable story of Yacouba Sawadogo, who revived agriculture in a region plagued by desertification.
For feature films and television productions, the cities of Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso, and Ouahigouya offer intriguing locations.
For traditional Burkinabé architecture, Tiébélé in the Kassena village is known for elaborately painted mud huts. Loropéni, near the Ivory Coast border, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing ruins of an ancient fortress.
In the western region of Burkina Faso, filmmakers can explore national parks, elephant and crocodile sanctuaries, lakes, and waterfalls. Bobo-Dioulasso, or “Bobo,” offers a relaxed atmosphere and serves as a great base for shoots at Tengrela Lake, home to crocodiles, and the Karfiguela Waterfall.
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