Koupéla, Burkina Faso

Capital City

With a population of just 45,900, Koupéla is a modest provincial outpost, far from the bright lights of Ouagadougou. The city is known for its pottery and sculptures, crafted from the natural clays found in the surrounding area. However, the real draw here is the city's long Catholic history - Koupéla was home to the first Catholic mission in Burkina Faso, and today it serves as the seat of an archdiocese, boasting an impressive cathedral.

On the downside, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache for newcomers. The city's remote location, 137 km east of the capital, also means access to services and amenities is limited. Koupéla is best suited for those seeking a quiet, traditional way of life, away from the crowds and chaos of bigger Burkinabe cities.