SIAO Craft Market Ouagadougou
Ouagadougou's vibrant central market, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and an authentic slice of Burkinabe life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce, fewer crowds
SIAO Craft Market Ouagadougou
Best Time
Freshest produce, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ouagadougou's vibrant central market, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and an authentic slice of Burkinabe life.
"It's a one market where everything about food is there.and very cheap too."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The market can get muddy, especially after rain. Closed-toe shoes are essential for comfort .
💰 Bargain with a Smile
Prices are often negotiable. Engage with vendors respectfully to get the best deals.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fresh Produce Galore
Discover a vibrant array of fruits, vegetables, and local ingredients at incredibly low prices.
Local Crafts and Goods
Browse unique handmade crafts, textiles, and everyday items reflecting Burkinabe artistry.
Bustling Market Atmosphere
Experience the lively energy and authentic daily life of Ouagadougou's central marketplace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Navigating the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The market can get muddy, especially after rain. Closed-toe shoes are essential for comfort.
💰 Bargain with a Smile
Prices are often negotiable. Engage with vendors respectfully to get the best deals.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Ouagadougou can be hot. Carry water, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring.
📱 Keep Valuables Secure
Like any busy market, be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The market can get muddy, especially after rain. Closed-toe shoes are essential for comfort.
💰 Bargain with a Smile
Prices are often negotiable. Engage with vendors respectfully to get the best deals.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Ouagadougou can be hot. Carry water, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring.
📱 Keep Valuables Secure
Like any busy market, be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe.
📸 Respectful Photography
Always ask for permission before taking photos of vendors or their stalls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The SIAO Craft Market is a bustling local hub offering a wide array of fresh produce and goods at very affordable prices. Visitors appreciate its authenticity and the vibrant atmosphere, though some note that hygiene conditions can be low and the market becomes muddy after rain, requiring careful navigation.
"A typical local African market where most farm produce will be found but the hygienic condition is very low"
Emmanuel Adu-Kissiedu
"This market needs renovation. It’s really bad when it rains. It gets muddy, and you can barely walk comfortably after the rain."
Ismael L. Wedrago
"Cool"
Boamani Lompo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The SIAO Craft Market is centrally located in Ouagadougou. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to reach the market. You can also ask locals for directions to the 'Grand Marché' or 'Marché Sou' which often refers to the main market areas.
Parking can be challenging in such a busy area. It's often best to be dropped off by a taxi or to find a designated parking spot a short walk away.
The market is vast and can be divided into sections for produce, crafts, clothing, and household goods. It's easy to get lost, so take note of landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to access the main market areas. You pay for the goods you purchase.
The market is typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Hours can vary, so it's best to visit during daylight hours.
Most vendors operate on a cash-only basis. It's advisable to carry sufficient local currency (CFA Francs) for your purchases.
🎫 🛍️ Onsite Experience
You can find a wide variety of items, including fresh fruits and vegetables, local spices, handmade crafts, textiles, clothing, and household essentials.
While it's a great place for food, the hygienic conditions can be low, especially in certain sections. Be mindful of this when purchasing produce.
The market is very lively and can get crowded, particularly during peak hours. Early mornings are generally less crowded.
It's generally safe, but like any busy marketplace, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.
Yes, you can find local snacks and drinks from various vendors within the market.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and ingredients for local dishes. Small food stalls within or near the market may offer prepared meals.
While the market itself is focused on raw produce and goods, there are often small eateries and restaurants in the surrounding areas offering local cuisine.
Food items, especially produce, are known to be very cheap at this market.
📸 📸 Photography
It's always best to ask for permission before taking photos of vendors or their stalls. Many vendors are happy to have their goods photographed if asked politely.
The vibrant displays of colorful produce and the lively interactions between vendors and customers offer great photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Ouagadougou: SIAO Craft Market
However, it's important to be prepared for the market's rustic charm. As one reviewer noted, the hygienic conditions can be low, and the market is particularly challenging when it rains, becoming muddy and difficult to navigate.
While the market is a central point for local commerce, it's worth noting that other commercial centers and markets exist in Ouagadougou, such as Super U
Navigating the Market: Practicalities and Tips
When it comes to purchasing goods, remember that haggling is a common practice. Approach vendors with a friendly demeanor and be prepared to negotiate prices respectfully. This is part of the cultural exchange and can lead to better deals. While the market is a treasure trove of local products, it's also a busy place. As with any crowded environment, it's important to be mindful of your belongings and keep them secure to avoid any unfortunate incidents. For those interested in capturing the vibrant atmosphere, always ask for permission before taking photographs of vendors or their stalls; many are happy to oblige if asked politely.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit