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Kongoussi
ℹ️Practical info — Kongoussi
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Visit the shores of Lake Bam in the early morning to see the local fishermen bringing in their catch.
- Try to time your visit with the French green bean harvest to see the local agricultural boom.
- Water is a precious resource in this Sahel region, so be mindful of your usage.
- Transport from Ouagadougou is mainly by shared taxis on dusty roads, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
🍽 Food
Caught straight from Lake Bam, enjoyed grilled at small eateries near the lake shore.
Haricots verts, served as a fresh side dish in local restaurants during harvest season.
A traditional Mossi stew of bitter greens and peanuts, found in the central market area.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
Buy green beans and onions directly from the market near the agricultural zones.
Local crafts and pottery available at the main town market.
Watch the pirogues return at sunset for a peaceful end to the day.
Walk among the green agricultural fields, a stark contrast to the arid surroundings.
Water temperature…
Kongoussi is a significant urban center in northern Burkina Faso, serving as the administrative capital of the Bam Province within the Centre-Nord Region. The town is most notably situated on the shores of Lake Bam, which is one of the largest natural inland water bodies in the country and crucial for the local ecosystem. Historically, the area has been a hub for agricultural innovation, particularly known for its extensive production of green beans which are frequently exported to European markets. The local economy is heavily dependent on the water resources provided by the lake, supporting both large-scale irrigation projects and traditional fishing activities. Kongoussi also serves as a vital transit point on the national highway N2 connecting the capital, Ouagadougou, with the northern regions towards the border with Mali. The city's infrastructure includes several administrative offices, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities that cater to the surrounding rural population. As of the latest census data, the population of Kongoussi has grown steadily, reflecting its role as a regional economic anchor. The cultural landscape is characterized by a blend of various ethnic groups, predominantly the Mossi, who have shaped the social fabric of the town through centuries of settlement and trade.
- Location: Burkina Faso
- Top sights: Bam Province · Kongoussi Department
- Nearby: Kaya (56 km)
- Population: ~53.627 (2026)
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 | 23 | 27 | 30 | 33 | 34 | 31 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 26 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 1 | 1 | 10 | 30 | 95 | 171 | 233 | 116 | 28 | 0 | 0 |
Geography
Facts
- Kongoussi is the administrative capital of Bam Province.
- The town lies on the shores of Lake Bam, which is about 30 km long.
- The region is a national leader in the export of green beans.
- Kongoussi is located approximately 110 kilometers north of Ouagadougou.
- The population is estimated to be over 25.000 inhabitants.
- The city is a major transit hub on the N2 national highway.
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Sights in the town Kongoussi (2)
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Kongoussi?
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Can you fish in the lake?
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When is bean harvest season?
Kongoussi: where is it located?
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Kongoussi: why is it worth visiting?
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