Plizio Visual Lab

Arly National Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

Arly National Park in southeastern Burkina Faso is an integral part of the transboundary W-Arly-Pendjari complex, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2017. Covering an area of approximately 760 square kilometers, the park protects a diverse savanna landscape characterized by gallery forests along the Arly River and sandstone formations of the Gobnangou range. The park's fauna is remarkable, including one of the last viable populations of the West African lion, along with significant herds of elephants, buffalo, and leopards. Botanically, the area is dominated by Combretum savannas and vast grasslands that serve as crucial grazing grounds for large antelope species, such as the topi, during the dry season. Beyond conservation, the park is an essential research site for the ecology of the Sudano-Sahelian zone. Despite challenges from poaching and climate change, Arly remains a refuge of continental importance. The park's management operates in close cooperation with international conservation organizations to ensure the survival of its unique biodiversity. It stands as a symbol of the West African wilderness, attracting nature observers globally.

Location: Burkina Faso
Nearby: Diapaga (65 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	32	33	32	30	28	26	27	28	27	25
Rain mm	0	1	5	24	62	98	151	208	133	45	2	0

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The dry season from November to April is the best time for wildlife viewing in Arly National Park, as animals gather at waterholes. The rainy season makes the park difficult to access and densely overgrown.

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Best time of day

Early morning and at sunset, elephants and other large animals are most active. At midday you will usually search in vain - they rest in the shade of trees.

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Etiquette

Stay in your vehicle when near wildlife and only get out at designated spots. Do not feed animals or litter.

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What to bring

Good binoculars and a camera with telephoto lens are essential for wildlife viewing from a safe distance. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection.

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Getting there

Arly National Park is located in southeastern Burkina Faso, reachable via the N19 national road. Access is usually by a four-wheel-drive vehicle from the town of Diapaga.

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What to expect

Large mammals like elephants and lions are not always immediately visible - they roam vast areas. Plan for multiple days and drive to waterholes in the early morning hours.

Geography

Coordinates

11.85000, 2.33000

Facts

Part of the W-Arly-Pendjari UNESCO World Heritage site
Home to one of the last populations of the West African lion
Features a recorded presence of over 200 bird species
Characterized by the sandstone cliffs of the Gobnangou range
Vital habitat for West African elephants and savanna buffalo
The park was originally established in the 1950s

Explore nearby

Notable places around

W National Park20 km · NExplore →

Buffalo Range of the W National Park25 km · NEExplore →

Goungoun Forest Reserve55 km · NExplore →

Diapaga Hills61 km · SExplore →

SODECO Cotton Factory Banikoara62 km · WExplore →

Diapaga Plateau64 km · SExplore →

Alibori Elephant Habitat70 km · NWExplore →

Diapaga Historical Center71 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What animals can you see in Arly National Park?

Elephants, lions, buffalo, various antelope species, and monkeys are native here.

When is the best safari time?

From January to April, when animals gather around the few water holes.

Is the park open to visitors?

Check the current security situation and access restrictions before traveling.

Do you need a guide and a vehicle?

Yes, a 4x4 vehicle and an experienced park guide are mandatory.

Is there accommodation in the park?

There are simple lodges and camps, like Hotel de la Tapoa, nearby.

Arly National Park: where is it located?

Arly National Park is located in Burkina Faso.

Arly National Park: when is the best time to visit?

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

Arly National Park: why is it worth visiting?

Arly National Park in southeastern Burkina Faso is an integral part of the transboundary W-Arly-Pendjari complex, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2017.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →