Burkina Faso in August

November through March offers the sweet spot — dry, cooler weather with temperatures around 25-30°C during the day. The harmattan winds bring dust from the Sahara, creating hazy sunsets but also respiratory irritation if you're sensitive. April and May turn brutally hot, with temperatures hitting 45°C. Then the rains arrive in June, turning roads to mud and making rural travel nearly impossible until October. Festival season peaks in February and March — FESPACO, Africa's biggest film festival, transforms Ouaga every odd-numbered year. Book accommodations months ahead during festival years. December brings perfect weather but also European holiday crowds in the few tourist spots.