Mare aux Hippopotames is a lake in Burkina Faso, in West Africa, set within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is a place where wildlife, rather than buildings or monuments, is the main draw.
The reserve lies near Bobo-Dioulasso, the country's second city, which makes it a practical stop for travellers already exploring that part of the country. The hippos are the centre of attention: dozens of these large mammals gather in the natural pools here, and the lake is known as one of the more accessible places in West Africa to see them up close.
What a visit offers
- Hippo viewing in and around the natural pools
- Guided walks through the surrounding savanna
- Birds and antelope along the way
- Good conditions for wildlife photography
The walks are a good way to see more than the water. The savanna landscape around the lake is full of birdlife and antelope, so the visit can be as much about watching the wider habitat as about the hippos themselves.
Planning your trip
The facts available note that viewing is best during the dry season, in the mornings, when the hippos are most active. Visitors who want the best chance of a sighting should plan around those times. Because the reserve is a protected area, it is worth following the guidance of local guides, who can point out animals and explain the surroundings.
Mare aux Hippopotames suits travellers interested in wildlife and nature, and those who enjoy slower outdoor days with time for photography. Anyone combining it with a stay in Bobo-Dioulasso will find it a straightforward day trip into the savanna.