Burkina Faso / Domestic tourism: When the country capitalises on its own assets to raise its profile
Burkina Faso is confirming its determination to make its territory a prime destination by leveraging local resources and strengthening domestic tourism. The 2025 figures reflect this momentum: of the more than 630,000 visitors recorded at the country’s tourist sites, 78% were Burkinabe. This observation validates the national strategy centered on resilience, cultural sovereignty, and local economic development.
The Great Domestic Tourism Season (GSTI), launched by the authorities, fits squarely within this logic. Designed to encourage domestic travel, the GSTI highlights heritage sites, nature reserves, cultural circuits, and community-based initiatives.
It also aims to revitalize the local hotel and craft offering, create jobs, and retain a greater share of added value within the national territory.
Public efforts combine promotion, training, and infrastructure. Communication campaigns target urban populations, inviting them to rediscover the country’s regions, while training initiatives accompany tourism operators to improve service quality.
On the infrastructure front, access works, signage upgrades, and site equipment have been undertaken to make attractions more appealing and secure.
The high proportion of domestic visitors generates multiplier effects: local spending in hospitality, catering, and crafts; the strengthening of short supply chains; and incentives for private investment in the regions.
The authorities emphasize an inclusive approach, involving local governments and communities so that tourism directly benefits the populations concerned.
However, challenges remain: limited international promotion, security constraints in certain areas, and the need for a quality infrastructure network.
The authorities appear aware of these obstacles and are counting on the gradual construction of a sustainable offering, supported by the GSTI, to establish Burkina’s reputation as an authentic and safe destination.
By prioritizing domestic tourism, Burkina Faso seeks not only to stimulate its economy but also to strengthen national cohesion and heritage pride—all ingredients to make the country a natural choice for travelers, Burkinabe today and, tomorrow, international visitors.
Hadja KOUROUMA
