Mount Tenakourou
Mountain Burkina Faso's highest point offering hilltop views
Mount Tenakourou, Burkina Faso’s highest point (around 747 m), offers short hikes, panoramic views of the Cascades region and a simple highland walking experience for peak-baggers.
Mount Tenakourou is the highest point of Burkina Faso, rising to about 749 metres above sea level. It is a modest summit rather than a high mountain and is noted as the country’s topographic high point.
The site is popular with visitors seeking a short climb and panoramic views over the surrounding plains and farmland. The summit is marked and reachable via trails suitable for day visits.
There is no major mountaineering infrastructure; the peak is primarily of interest for its status as the national high point and for local scenery.
Mount Tenakourou is located in the Cascades Region in the southwestern part of Burkina Faso, within a landscape of plains, hills and seasonal rivers.
- Elevation: Highest natural point in Burkina Faso at approximately 749 metres above sea level.
How to Get to Mount Tenakourou #
Mount Tenakourou is in Burkina Faso’s Cascades Region. The nearest larger towns are Banfora and Orodara; from Banfora it’s a drive of approximately 1-2 hours depending on road conditions. Most visitors arrange local transport to a nearby village and hike the short final ascent; the trailhead is walkable from the nearest paved road.
Tips for Visiting Mount Tenakourou #
- Ask the local tourism office in Banfora or Orodara for directions and the easiest vehicle drop-off - the last stretch is often on sandy farm tracks.
- Wear sturdy shoes: the summit's rocky outcrops are best navigated with ankle support, and the wind can be sharp at the top.
- Bring cash for the small local fees and to tip the guide or farmer who may help with access.
Best Time to Visit Mount Tenakourou #
Climb during the dry season for the easiest access and clearest vistas; dawn brings the best light and cooling air.
Weather & Climate near Mount Tenakourou #
Mount Tenakourou's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 17°C to 34°C. Abundant rainfall (1140 mm/year), wettest in August with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 18°C. The driest month with just 2 mm and clear sunny skies.
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February
February is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 20°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is hot with highs of 34°C and lows of 22°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is the hottest month, feeling like 29°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is hot, feeling like 29°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (137 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 20°C. Heavy rain (221 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (293 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (194 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 20°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm).
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November
November is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 20°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 17°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.