Chokhi Dhani | Jaipur

The Village Artisanal de Ouagadougou is a craft market located in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

Visual Characteristics

The market consists of a collection of open-air stalls and small, permanent structures constructed from local materials. Walls are typically made of mud brick or concrete, often painted in earth tones. Roofs are frequently thatched or corrugated metal. The layout is a network of pathways between these vendor spaces.

Location & Access Logistics

The Village Artisanal is situated approximately 2 kilometers south of the city center of Ouagadougou. Access is via Avenue de l'Indépendance, turning onto Rue 12.18. Parking is available on-site, though it can become congested during peak hours. Public transport options include local taxis and potentially some city bus routes that pass near the area; specific route numbers are subject to change.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in the late 1970s, the Village Artisanal was conceived as a central location to promote and sell traditional Burkinabé crafts. Its purpose was to support local artisans and provide a consolidated marketplace for both domestic and international buyers. It is a man-made structure, not a natural formation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe artisans at work, including wood carving, leatherworking, metal forging, and textile weaving. Purchases of handcrafted items such as masks, jewelry, pottery, and clothing are possible. Haggling over prices is a common practice.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic restroom facilities are available within the market. Shade is provided by stall coverings and some permanent structures. Cell phone signal (2G/3G) is generally available. Limited food and drink vendors operate within or immediately adjacent to the market.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds is in the morning, between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The dry season, from November to February, offers the most pleasant weather. Midday temperatures can be high.

Facts & Legends

A specific tip for visitors is to look for the artisans specializing in "Pagne Baoulé" weaving, a technique producing intricate patterns on cotton fabric, often found in dedicated sections of the market.

Nearby Landmarks

• Grand Marché (0.8km North)
• Musée National du Burkina Faso (1.5km North)
• Palais de la Culture (1.2km North)
• Cathédrale de l'Immaculée Conception (1.8km North)