- The best travel insurance plans for Burkina Faso
- Is it currently safe to travel to Burkina Faso?
- Is Travel Insurance Required to Enter Burkina Faso?
- Why take out travel insurance for Burkina Faso?
- What your travel insurance for Burkina Faso should cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Burkina Faso
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Burkina Faso
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Burkina Faso?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Burkina Faso: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Burkina Faso covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and trip cancellation or interruption.
2. Warning: The U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to Burkina Faso due to serious risks.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is essential due to limited medical facilities and security risks.
4. Healthcare cost: Medical facilities are limited; a private clinic stay can cost several hundred dollars per night.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Burkina Faso can cost between $50 and $100.
6. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers travel to a "Do Not Travel" advisory country and includes medical evacuation.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Burkina Faso.
The best travel insurance plans for Burkina Faso
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1M USD | Our recommendation for travel to Burkina Faso, offering robust coverage for emergencies. - high medical limits - repatriation included - strong support network |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1M USD | Solid policy for challenging environments, combining effective assistance and clear processes. - 24/7 helpline - evacuation covered - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $500K USD | Good choice for tourism in Burkina Faso with straightforward guarantee structure. - strong core cover - emergency assistance - practical for short visits |
| Travel Pass Monde | $700K USD | Comprehensive protection for international travelers with reliable claims process. - repatriation - hospital care - wide geographic coverage |
| Globe Partner | $300K USD | Basic yet reliable protection for stays abroad and essential guarantees. - medical costs reimbursed - repatriation - civil liability included |
| Globe Traveller | $500K USD | Affordable solution for short trips to Burkina Faso with core benefits. - essential medical protection - quick reimbursements - limited ceiling |
- high medical limits
- repatriation included
- strong support network
- 24/7 helpline
- evacuation covered
- no deductible
- strong core cover
- emergency assistance
- practical for short visits
- repatriation
- hospital care
- wide geographic coverage
- medical costs reimbursed
- repatriation
- civil liability included
- essential medical protection
- quick reimbursements
- limited ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Burkina Faso?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State has classified Burkina Faso at Level 4: Do Not Travel due to widespread terrorism, high crime, and frequent kidnappings targeting both locals and foreigners.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: the threat from armed terrorist groups is severe, especially in the Sahel, East, and northern border areas. For example, the Fada N’Gourma region has seen regular attacks, with road travel and public gatherings posing significant dangers.
- Health risks: medical resources throughout Burkina Faso are limited, with major diseases such as malaria and yellow fever widespread. Vaccination against yellow fever is required for entry, and untreated mosquito bites in the Bobo-Dioulasso region frequently lead to malaria.
- Legal constraints: strict laws exist regarding photography of official or military sites, and violations may result in detention. The use of drones is banned, especially near Ouagadougou airport.
- Environmental risks: severe seasonal flooding affects several regions, such as the town of Kaya, often making roads impassable and disrupting emergency services.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Burkina Faso.
Is Travel Insurance Required to Enter Burkina Faso?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for US citizens entering Burkina Faso.
However, taking out travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State due to limited medical care, the risk of serious security incidents, and the potential need for expensive medical evacuation not covered by local services.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Burkina Faso. This high percentage reflects the country’s heightened level of risk and the extreme cost of emergency assistance.
Why take out travel insurance for Burkina Faso?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Burkina Faso.
Health care costs can be high in Burkina Faso. Public hospitals in Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso are often poorly equipped, with basic supplies and medications in short supply. Foreign nationals typically use private clinics like Polyclinique Notre Dame de la Paix in Ouagadougou, where fees are significantly higher and advance payment is usually required.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to the United States in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Burkina Faso.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Polyclinique Notre Dame de la Paix | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 550,000 XOF (about $900 USD) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 400,000 XOF (about $650 USD) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 18,000,000 XOF (about $29,500 USD) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 1,450,000 XOF (about $2,400 USD) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What your travel insurance for Burkina Faso should cover
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Burkina Faso.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital and doctor fees for illness or accident. Recommended minimum reimbursement: $100,000. |
| 🩺 Medical evacuation & repatriation | Pays for emergency evacuation to another country or return home after serious injury or illness. Recommended minimum coverage: $150,000. |
| 💊 Prescription medication | Refunds for medicines prescribed after an accident or illness. Recommended minimum: $2,000. |
| 🚑 Ambulance transportation | Covers transport by ambulance to hospital or clinic if needed. Reimbursement should be at least $1,500. |
| 🛄 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation if your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip. Suggested minimum coverage: $2,000. |
| 🗓️ Trip cancellation or interruption | Covers prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you have to cancel or cut short your trip due to covered reasons. Recommend at least $4,000. |
| ✋ Personal liability | Protects you if you cause injury to someone or damage their property. Recommended minimum: $50,000. |
Recommended minimum reimbursement: $100,000.
Recommended minimum coverage: $150,000.
Recommended minimum: $2,000.
Reimbursement should be at least $1,500.
Suggested minimum coverage: $2,000.
Recommend at least $4,000.
Recommended minimum: $50,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often includes limited coverage, low reimbursement limits, and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Burkina Faso
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $60 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $92 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $130 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $230 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance is influenced by key factors: your age, the length of your trip, your destination, and any add-ons like cancellation coverage. Remember that riskier destinations or extended stays typically cost more. Considering these details is crucial to finding a policy that fits your budget and provides adequate protection.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Burkina Faso
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Burkina Faso while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🕒 Trip duration | The duration of your stay can make a significant difference in insurance cost. | Opt for coverage only matching your travel dates, and avoid annual plans for short trips. |
| 👥 Number of travelers | Group or family policies can often lead to lower per-person premiums. | Compare group offers if traveling with others, as some insurers provide better rates for families or groups. |
| 🌎 Destination risk | Burkina Faso has high medical and security risks, which increases premiums. | Choose a plan focused on medical evacuation and emergency care rather than add-ons you may not need. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Higher limits mean higher premiums but are important in a country with limited facilities. | Select a policy with necessary but not excessive reimbursement ceilings to avoid paying for unused benefits. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Premiums increase with cancellation options, but medical-only packages may be enough for Burkina Faso. | Opt for medical-only coverage if trip cancellation is not a concern for your journey. |
| 🎒 Traveler’s age | Insurers usually raise rates for older adults, except some exceptions. | Compare age-banded premiums; Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🛡️ Deductibles | Plans with higher deductibles cost less but mean a higher out-of-pocket expense if needed. | Consider a moderate deductible to balance affordable premiums and manageable out-of-pocket costs. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Burkina Faso?
It is completely legitimate to wonder if your existing coverage, such as credit card insurance or private health insurance, can protect you during a trip to Burkina Faso. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient, especially for medical evacuation and emergencies. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Burkina Faso? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage abroad, no medical expenses or hospitalization covered outside the US | Travel insurance provides $100,000+ for medical care and emergency evacuation |
| Private health insurance | Yes, partly | Some out-of-network care, usually requires reimbursement, no evacuation. Limits <$10,000 | Travel insurance covers direct care, $100,000+ emergency evacuation, and 24/7 assistance |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover) | Yes, partly | Accidents/illness ≤$10,000, usually excludes evacuation and baggage loss | Travel insurance gives $100,000+ for health, loss, theft, trip cancellation |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige) | Yes, partly | Medical emergencies ≤$50,000, some delay/baggage coverage, strict claim limits | Travel insurance includes $150,000+ coverage, trip cancellation, local support, and medical evacuation |
Example
While in Burkina Faso, Mark contracted cerebral malaria. The private clinic in Ouagadougou required a $9,000 upfront payment. His US health insurance was out-of-network, and his Visa Signature card’s travel protection didn't cover medical costs directly, forcing his family to wire the funds for his life-saving treatment.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption for a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Burkina Faso?
Yes, US citizens need a tourist visa to enter Burkina Faso. You can obtain this visa before departure from the Burkina Faso embassy or upon arrival at the airport or land borders. Make sure your passport is valid and has at least one blank page for the entry stamp.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Burkina Faso?
To purchase travel insurance for Burkina Faso, start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check coverage and exclusions carefully, paying special attention to medical evacuation, security-related incidents, and coverage for high-risk destinations. Buy your preferred policy online and receive your certificate immediately by email.
What health precautions should I take before traveling to Burkina Faso?
Before travel, consult a medical professional for advice on vaccinations. Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. You should also consider vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, and take prescription antimalarial medication, as malaria is a major risk.
Is medical care in Burkina Faso reliable in case of an emergency?
Medical facilities in Burkina Faso are limited, especially outside Ouagadougou. In the event of a serious illness or injury, medical evacuation to a country with better-equipped hospitals is often necessary. Reliable travel insurance should always include medical evacuation coverage due to the extreme risks.
Are there particular risks US travelers should know about in Burkina Faso?
The security situation is very serious, with ongoing terrorism, armed attacks, and frequent kidnappings across the country. The US State Department currently advises US citizens not to travel to Burkina Faso under any circumstances. If you must go, keep up to date with official alerts and have evacuation plans in place.
Do I need a visa to travel to Burkina Faso?
Yes, US citizens need a tourist visa to enter Burkina Faso. You can obtain this visa before departure from the Burkina Faso embassy or upon arrival at the airport or land borders. Make sure your passport is valid and has at least one blank page for the entry stamp.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Burkina Faso?
To purchase travel insurance for Burkina Faso, start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check coverage and exclusions carefully, paying special attention to medical evacuation, security-related incidents, and coverage for high-risk destinations. Buy your preferred policy online and receive your certificate immediately by email.
What health precautions should I take before traveling to Burkina Faso?
Before travel, consult a medical professional for advice on vaccinations. Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. You should also consider vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, and take prescription antimalarial medication, as malaria is a major risk.
Is medical care in Burkina Faso reliable in case of an emergency?
Medical facilities in Burkina Faso are limited, especially outside Ouagadougou. In the event of a serious illness or injury, medical evacuation to a country with better-equipped hospitals is often necessary. Reliable travel insurance should always include medical evacuation coverage due to the extreme risks.
Are there particular risks US travelers should know about in Burkina Faso?
The security situation is very serious, with ongoing terrorism, armed attacks, and frequent kidnappings across the country. The US State Department currently advises US citizens not to travel to Burkina Faso under any circumstances. If you must go, keep up to date with official alerts and have evacuation plans in place.
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