Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso

Capital City

With a population of 555,128, Bobo-Dioulasso is the second-largest city in Burkina Faso, but the bureaucracy here is a persistent headache. The city has enjoyed an economic revival in recent years, thanks to an influx of residents fleeing the instability in neighboring Ivory Coast. However, the tropical climate can be brutal, with average highs exceeding 38°C (100°F) during the dry season. Bobo-Dioulasso may appeal to those seeking an authentic West African experience, but the oppressive heat and heavy-handed government presence are drawbacks to consider.