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Trip Report
From a small permaculture farm to unpaved roads in Burkina Faso
Sub-Saharan Africa is often seen as a paradise for animal seekers. This trip is a reminder that there is much more to discover in local communities and farms.
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AfricaBurkina Faso27 days / August 2015
Highs & Lows
Unique experience far from touristic roads
Our bodies had a hard time adapting to local food
Itinerary Overview
With a group of friends, we came to Burkina Faso as a result of a 2 years project call Compagnons (https://compagnons.sgdf.fr/) over the theme of agro-ecology and permaculture. Burkina Faso is a country located in West Africa which became a self-governing colony in 1958 and obtained its independence from France in 1960. We volunteered three weeks in a local farm/association and saved a week at the end to backpack around Burkina Faso. We were welcomed by a local association AIDMR which promotes agro-ecology and permaculture around Burkina Faso. They picked us up at the airport and helped us organize this trip. As most roads are very difficult to travel by car, we hired a 4 wheels car and a driver to help us reach the farm and explore the surrounding area. During the last week of our trip, we traveled mostly by bus and occasionally rented motorbikes.
Q & A
What would you have changed?
I would have tried to come sometime before to let some time to my body to adapt to this very challenging environment.
Anything go wrong during the trip?
During rainy season, sometimes rooms get flooded. Do not let you electronic charging on the floor during the night.
How was the food?
Quite challenging. Do not eat meat in restaurants.
What tips would you give a friend?
Don't be afraid, everyone is very welcoming.
Packing tips?
Stay light, do not overpack!
Transportation Tips?
Buses work well. Beware to choose the right company as some buses rush to arrive to destination putting their passengers at risk.
Any surprises?
The whole country was full of surprises! Especially the sunsets and night skies were astonishing.
Booking details?
Worked well for direct booking, this is not a very touristic place.
Lodging
Local farm belonging to the AIDMR association
We slept in a school