The Cost of Living in Ouagadougou

Ouagadougou, commonly referred to as Ouaga, is the capital city of Burkina Faso, located in West Africa. It is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving economy. If you’re considering moving to Ouagadougou, it’s essential to understand the cost of living in this city before making your decision. In this blog post, we will delve into the cost of living in Ouagadougou and provide you with an insight into what you can expect to spend.

Housing

Housing is one of the essential components of the cost of living. The good news is that the cost of accommodation in Ouagadougou is relatively affordable, especially if you’re looking to rent an apartment in the city center. For a one-bedroom apartment, the monthly rent can range between XOF 50,000 to XOF 200,000 ($91 to $360), depending on its location and amenities. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around XOF 400,000 ($720) per month.If you’re looking to buy a property in Ouagadougou, the prices vary depending on location and property type. A two-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost between XOF 30,000,000 to XOF 80,000,000 ($54,000 to $145,000), while a three-bedroom apartment in the suburbs can cost between XOF 20,000,000 to XOF 50,000,000 ($36,000 to $90,000).

Transportation

Transportation in Ouagadougou is primarily by road, and most people use taxis, buses, or motorcycles. The cost of transportation in Ouaga is relatively affordable, with a one-way ticket on a bus or taxi costing around XOF 200 ($0.36), and a motorcycle ride generally costing around XOF 500 ($0.90) per trip. If you’re planning a long-distance journey, you can expect to spend around XOF 10,000 ($18) for a one-way ticket.If you prefer to own a car, the cost of purchasing one can be high in Ouaga, and you’ll also have to factor in the cost of maintenance, fuel, and insurance. A standard sedan car can cost between XOF 15,000,000 to XOF 30,000,000 ($27,000 to $54,000) in the city.

Food

Burkinabe cuisine is delicious, and there are plenty of local dishes to explore. The good news is that food in Ouagadougou is relatively affordable, and there are plenty of local markets and street vendors where you can find cheap eats. A typical meal from a local fast-food joint can cost between XOF 1,500 to XOF 2,500 ($2.70 to $4.50) per meal. If you’re dining out in a restaurant, expect to spend around XOF 8,000 to XOF 15,000 ($14 to $27) for a meal for two.If you’re looking to buy groceries and cook at home, the cost of food items such as rice, beans, and vegetables are relatively affordable, with a kilogram of rice costing around XOF 400 ($0.72), and a kilogram of tomatoes costing around XOF 500 ($0.90).

Utilities

The cost of utilities in Ouagadougou is relatively affordable, although prices may vary depending on your consumption. If you’re renting a one-bedroom apartment, expect to spend around XOF 50,000 to XOF 75,000 ($91 to $136) per month on utilities such as gas, electricity, and water. If you’re renting a larger property, you can expect to spend around XOF 150,000 to XOF 175,000 ($272 to $317) per month on utilities.

Healthcare

Medical care in Ouagadougou is relatively affordable, with plenty of public and private clinics and hospitals. Public healthcare is free, but the quality of care may be lower than private healthcare. The cost of private medical treatment varies, but you can expect to pay between XOF 50,000 to XOF 75,000 ($91 to $136) per consultation.

Conclusion

In summary, Ouagadougou is an affordable city, and the cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in Africa. Housing, transportation, food, utilities, and healthcare are affordable, and with careful budgeting, you can enjoy a high standard of living in this vibrant West African city. If you’re thinking of moving to Ouagadougou, we hope that this guide has provided you with the necessary information to help you plan your budget and make an informed decision.

An Insider’s Guide to Ouagadougou: Discovering Hidden Treasures Beyond the Cost of Living

Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure that takes you beyond the cost of living in Ouagadougou? This guide is for you. Leave behind the tourist traps and explore some of the city’s hidden gems with a unique local perspective that will make you fall in love with the capital of Burkina Faso.

Local Attractions: Discovering Ouagadougou’s Hidden Gems

You might have heard of the Grand Mosque or the National Museum of Music, but those destinations are just the tip of the iceberg of the city’s offerings. Ouaga-Yaar is a vibrant and colorful artisanal village where you can witness craft locals at work, making everything from pottery to baskets. If you’re interested in history, head to the Moro-Naba Palace, the former residence of the Mossi king that now serves as a museum and cultural center. For a change of scenery, head to Bangr-Weoogo Urban Park, a beautiful forest in the heart of the city, filled with exotic birdlife and walking trails.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Flavors of Ouagadougou

Ouagadougou is famous for its street food culture, a joy for anyone who loves to explore different flavors. Head to the popular Senegal Market in the city center, where you can taste everything from spicy peanut sauce to grilled fish. For a more relaxed atmosphere, try Cappuccino, a local chain serving fresh bread, pastries, and well-made coffee. If you want to delve deeper, check out Tiitou Village, a bustling and authentic outdoor food court that serves traditional dishes such as chicken stew and couscous, a must-try experience.

Cultural Experiences: Sharing Traditions, Festivals, and Customs

Ouagadougou is a vibrant and multicultural city known for its traditional ceremonies, dance, and music. The Naba Koom festival, held yearly in late September, is a four-day celebration of the Mossi tribe’s history and heritage, complete with colorful parades and vibrant drumbeat. Another must-see is the FESPACO, the largest film festival in Africa, held every two years to showcase the continent’s film industry. Don’t miss out on the chance to see live Burkinabe music, either, which is as diverse as Africa’s landscapes.

Local History: Captivating Stories from Ouagadougou’s Past

The history of Ouagadougou is rich and varied, and there are plenty of interesting stories to discover. One of the most fascinating is that of the Moro-Naba, the traditional leader of the Mossi people. Visit the Moro-Naba Palace to learn more about how this powerful monarch ruled the region and about the violent struggle between Mossi and French colonialism for control of the area that lasted for over a century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

Traveling is about immersing yourself in new experiences and discovering the unknown. Do you know that you can attend a live wrestling match? This is where Burkinabe wrestling, or lutte traditionnelle, was born, and the local-style of wrestling involves unique rituals and elaborate costumes. Another unique experience in Ouagadougou is to take advantage of the beautiful night sky. Join a local stargazing tour that will give you a chance to discover the parades of stars and constellations visible from the clear African sky.

Enjoy this insider’s guide to Ouagadougou, discovering the hidden gems beyond the cost of living, and make your adventure not only unforgettable but also share-worthy.