Main image

Martin Wegmann CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons

Mare d'Oursi

Lake

Seasonal ponds near Oursi in Burkina Faso's Sahel, visited by birdwatchers and pastoral communities during the rains for waterbirds and grazing lands.

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Mare d'Oursi essentials

Address: Mare d’Oursi, Sahel Region, Burkina Faso (near Oursi town)
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About Mare d'Oursi

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.

When to Go

Best Time to Visit Mare d'Oursi

The dry season (November-February) is most comfortable and practical for travel and wildlife observation.

Dry season
November-February · 15-30°C
Cooler mornings and clearer skies-best for birdwatching and travel.
Wet season
June-September · 25-35°C
Lush surroundings but travel may be hampered by rains and flooded tracks.

Weather & Climate near Mare d'Oursi

Climate

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.

Air Quality: AQI 106 Unhealthy (Sg)
Best Time to Visit
MarchFebruaryNovember
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
45°
Warmest Month
9°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January Ideal 16° - 32° 24° 0 mm mostly sunny 16% 2.5 m/s 1.6 very high 11.3h
February Ideal 18° - 35° 26° 0 mm mostly sunny 14% 2.7 m/s 1.9 very high 11.6h
March Ideal 21° - 38° 29° 2 mm mostly sunny 12% 3.0 m/s 2.1 extreme 11.9h
April Excellent 24° - 41° 32° 3 mm mostly sunny 17% 2.9 m/s 2.3 extreme 12.3h
May Excellent 26° - 41° 33° 13 mm some cloud 30% 2.8 m/s 2.3 extreme 12.7h
June Very Good 25° - 39° 33° 45 mm some cloud 45% 2.7 m/s 2.1 extreme 12.8h
July Very Good 24° - 35° 32° 100 mm some cloud 60% 3.0 m/s 2.2 extreme 12.8h
August Very Good 23° - 33° 31° 123 mm partly cloudy 73% 2.6 m/s 2.2 extreme 12.5h
September Very Good 23° - 35° 33° 55 mm some cloud 70% 2.2 m/s 2.3 extreme 12.1h
October Excellent 23° - 38° 32° 10 mm mostly sunny 52% 2.0 m/s 2.0 extreme 11.7h
November Ideal 19° - 36° 28° 0 mm clear 27% 1.9 m/s 1.7 very high 11.3h
December Ideal 17° - 32° 25° 0 mm clear 20% 2.0 m/s 1.6 very high 11.2h
Getting There & Around

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.