Mare d'Oursi
Lake Seasonal lake and important Sahel wetland ecosystem
Seasonal ponds near Oursi in Burkina Faso’s Sahel, visited by birdwatchers and pastoral communities during the rains for waterbirds and grazing lands.
Mare d’Oursi is a seasonal shallow pond or wetland feature in the Sahel Region of Burkina Faso near the town of Oursi. It functions as an important local water source during the rainy season.
The site is noted for its role as a habitat for waterbirds and other wildlife during and after the rainy season; it is used by local communities for grazing and seasonal activities. Visitors interested in birdlife and Sahelian wetland ecology come at times when water is present.
The feature is a natural seasonal wetland typical of the Sahel belt and has been used traditionally by local communities for water, grazing, and fishing when conditions permit. Its ecological importance stems from providing scarce dry-season water and habitat in the region.
Located near the town of Oursi in Burkina Faso’s Sahel Region, the pond lies within the semi-arid landscape of northern Burkina Faso and is accessible from regional roads around Oursi.
How to Get to Mare d'Oursi #
Mare d’Oursi is reached from the regional centre of Dori by road; Oursi town is the nearest access point. Road conditions vary with season-during the rainy season some tracks may be impassable. Travelers should arrange local guides and transport from Dori.
Tips for Visiting Mare d'Oursi #
- Visit at sunset for the lake's reflection and for local fishermen selling the day's catch.
- Combine a visit with nearby Sahel Region communities to understand the lake's role in local livelihoods and rituals.
- Bring insect protection at dusk-mosquitoes can increase after dark.
Best Time to Visit Mare d'Oursi #
The dry season (November-February) is most comfortable and practical for travel and wildlife observation.
Weather & Climate near Mare d'Oursi #
Mare d'Oursi's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with very hot summers (peaking in May) and warm winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 16°C to 41°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 32°C and lows of 16°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is warm with highs of 35°C and lows of 18°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 21°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is hot with highs of 41°C and lows of 24°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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May
May is the hottest month with highs of 41°C and lows of 26°C. Light rainfall.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 33°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm).
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July
July is hot, feeling like 32°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
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August
August is hot, feeling like 31°C due to high humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (123 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 33°C due to high humidity. Moderate rainfall (55 mm).
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October
October is hot, feeling like 32°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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November
November is warm with highs of 36°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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December
December is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 17°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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