Plizio Visual Lab

Kourou Lake

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Mare de Kourou is an artificial reservoir in the Sahel region of northern Burkina Faso, originally designed in the 1990s to secure regional water supplies. With an area of approximately 10 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 8 meters, it represents one of the few year-round water surfaces in this extremely arid region. The lake is fed by the seasonal Kourou River, whose inflow, however, depends heavily on the duration and intensity of the annual rainy season. Ecologically, Mare de Kourou has evolved into an important refuge for numerous waterbirds and small mammals finding protection here from advancing desertification. The lake enables surrounding villages not only to grow vegetables through irrigation but also supports productive fishing, contributing significantly to the population's protein supply. However, water quality is threatened by high evaporation rates of up to 2,500 millimeters per year and increasing siltation. In recent years, measures have been taken to stabilize the shorelines through planting and to extend the reservoir's lifespan. Today, Mare de Kourou is a central point for both sedentary and nomadic populations.

Location: Burkina Faso
Nearby: Bama (12 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	28	31	32	31	29	26	25	26	27	26	24
Rain mm	1	3	10	45	88	131	208	265	180	60	4	0

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Reaching this seasonal water body typically involves traveling via local dirt roads from nearby settlements in Burkina Faso. Hiring a regional guide with a reliable off-road vehicle is highly recommended.

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Best season

The best time to visit is during the dry months when the lake becomes a crucial water source, drawing varied wildlife. Traveling just after the rainy season can also offer a lush environment before the extreme heat arrives.

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Terrain & paths

The surrounding environment mostly consists of flat, arid plains that transition into muddy shores near the water. Walking can become challenging close to the edge due to the soft and uneven ground created by changing water levels.

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What to bring

Essential items include plenty of drinking water, robust sun protection, and comfortable walking boots suitable for dusty conditions. Binoculars are extremely useful for observing wildlife gathering around this vital water source.

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Parking

Vehicles are typically left at a safe distance from the muddy shoreline, often near local community paths or designated drop-off spots. Always ensure your vehicle is parked on solid, dry ground to avoid getting stuck.

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Safety

Travelers should be well-prepared for intense daytime heat and the general lack of nearby medical or tourist facilities. It is highly advisable to travel in groups and keep local authorities informed of your specific itinerary.

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Time needed

A standard visit usually lasts between two and four hours, providing sufficient time for wildlife observation and photography. Including the sometimes lengthy travel time from major towns, this often requires a full-day commitment.

Geography

Coordinates

11.30000, -4.50000

Facts

Area: approx. 10 km² (3.9 sq miles) in the Sahel region
Maximum depth: 8 meters (26 feet)
Storage capacity: approx. 25 million m³
Purpose: Drinking water and irrigation for agriculture
Fisheries: Yields about 50 tons of fish annually
Climate: Evaporation rate reaches 2,500 mm (98 inches) per year

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bama12 km · NEExplore →

Kou Valley Rice Mills14 km · NEExplore →

Kourou Forest16 km · NWExplore →

CIMASSO Bobo-Dioulasso25 km · NWExplore →

Bobo-Dioulasso Old Station26 km · NWExplore →

Kayan27 km · SEExplore →

FILSAH Textile Mill27 km · NWExplore →

Bobo-Dioulasso Hills28 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is there catering at the lake?

No, there are no restaurants; self-catering is necessary.

Can you fish at the lake?

Yes, fishing is an important activity for the local population.

Are pets allowed?

There are no rules, but watch out for wildlife and heat.

How deep is the lake?

The depth is shallow and fluctuates significantly with rainfall.

Is there parking?

No paved spots, parking is at the end of the accessible tracks.

Kourou Lake: where is it located?

Kourou Lake is located in Burkina Faso.

Kourou Lake: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

Kourou Lake: why is it worth visiting?

Mare de Kourou is an artificial reservoir in the Sahel region of northern Burkina Faso, originally designed in the 1990s to secure regional water supplies.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →