Expenses and Cost Breakdown

Below is an overview of anticipated trip costs. Please note that prices are subject to change, and you should verify each item directly with the appropriate website, office, or service provider. This list is intended as a planning guideline only.

Up-Front Trip Preparation Costs

Travel Gear and Essentials

Costs While in Burkina Faso

Helpful Preparation Tips

• Stay hydrated and familiarize yourself with local customs and cultural etiquette.

• Begin your passport and visa process early to avoid last-minute delays.

• Check with your healthcare provider about required and recommended immunizations.

• Photocopy or scan all travel documents (passport, visa, insurance) and keep them in a separate place from the originals.

• Consider purchasing a universal power adapter for your electronic devices.

• Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

Airlines and Booking Options

Air France offers regular flights to Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, with convenient connections through Paris (Charles de Gaulle Airport). You can find flight schedules, fares, and booking information on their website at www.airfrance.us.

Delta Airlines is an Air France partner through the SkyTeam Alliance, which means you can book your flight directly with Delta and still earn frequent flyer miles, even if the travel is operated by Air France. Visit www.delta.com for booking and mileage options.

Air France also partners with the following international carriers, which may offer additional routes or pricing flexibility depending on your departure city:

• Aeroflot
• Aeromexico
• Alitalia
• China Southern Airlines
• Continental Airlines
• CSA Czech Airlines
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Korean Air

When planning your travel, compare flight times, layovers, and total travel duration. Flights to Ouagadougou typically require one or more connections, so allow ample time for transfers.

Luggage Guidelines

General Overview

Airline baggage policies vary and are subject to change. Always confirm the most current requirements directly with your airline at the time of booking. Rules differ based on your destination, ticket class, and frequent flyer status.

If your luggage exceeds the allowed weight or number of items, airlines will charge an oversize or overweight baggage fee at check-in. These fees can be significant, so plan ahead.

Air France Example (Economy Class, U.S. to Burkina Faso)

(Policies subject to change; check the airline’s website before your flight.)

• Checked Bags: One piece allowed, up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and no more than 62 linear inches (158 cm).
• Carry-On: One item allowed, up to 26 lbs (12 kg), measuring no more than 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm.
• Personal Item: One additional item such as a purse, laptop bag, or small daypack.
• Overweight Fees: Items weighing between 23–32 kg (50–70 lbs) may incur a $100 fee per bag.
• Restricted Items: Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 3 oz (100 ml) or less and placed in a quart-sized transparent bag. Exceptions are made for prescribed medications and certain food items.

For additional details and the latest updates, visit Air France’s Baggage Policy page before departure.

Labeling and Luggage Tips

Properly label every piece of luggage with your name, phone number, and destination. It’s a good idea to include “Ouagadougou Airport (OUA)” on the tag to help ensure your bags reach the correct destination.

To increase the chances of your luggage arriving safely:

• Attach two identification tags—one with your personal details and another labeled “OUA” or “Ouagadougou Airport”.
• Keep copies of your luggage claim tags and itinerary in a separate bag or on your phone.
• Expect possible delays or misplaced luggage, which can happen frequently when connecting through multiple airports.

Carry-On Essentials

Pack all critical items—such as travel documents, medications, electronics, and valuables—in your carry-on. It’s also wise to include a change or two of clothing, basic toiletries, and any essential spiritual or ritual items you may need upon arrival.

Travel and Health Insurance

Purchasing travel and health insurance is highly recommended for international travel. It provides coverage for medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Options to Consider

1. Credit Card Benefits – Many major credit cards include some form of travel insurance when you purchase your airline ticket using their card. Check with your credit card provider for details.
2. Private Travel Insurance Providers – Companies such as Allianz, Travel Guard, and World Nomads offer customizable travel insurance plans online.
3. Supplemental Health Insurance – If your domestic health plan does not include international coverage, you may purchase additional protection through providers like Wallach & Company (www.wallach.com | (800) 237-6615 or (540) 687-3166).

Before buying any policy, review your existing health insurance coverage to avoid overlapping benefits. Choose a plan that includes medical evacuation in case of emergency, as healthcare facilities in rural areas may be limited.

Passport Preparation

How to Apply

You can apply for a U.S. passport at your local post office, county clerk’s office, or passport acceptance facility. Applications can also be initiated online at the U.S. State Department’s website:
www.travel.state.gov/passport

If you need assistance, you can contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (formerly 1-900-225-5674).

Required Documents

When applying for your passport, you’ll need:

• A completed application form (DS-11), available online or at your local post office
• Proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate
• Valid photo identification (driver’s license, military ID, or government-issued ID)
• Two official passport photos that meet federal guidelines
• Applicable fees for processing and issuance

Processing Time

Regular passport processing can take 8–12 weeks, though times may vary depending on the season. If you are traveling soon, you can request expedited service for an additional fee (usually $60 plus overnight shipping). Expedited processing typically takes 2–4 weeks, but same-day service may be available at regional passport agencies for emergencies.

Safety Copies

Whenever traveling internationally, it’s wise to make photocopies or digital scans of your passport and all essential travel documents.

• Keep one copy in your luggage (separate from the original).
• Leave another copy with a trusted friend or family member at home who knows your itinerary.
• Save a secure digital copy in your email or cloud storage for emergency access.

Passport Photos

You’ll need two identical official passport photos when applying for your passport or visa. These must meet U.S. Department of State photo requirements—informal or edited photos will not be accepted.

You can obtain passport photos from:

• FedEx Office
• CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart
• Professional photographers or photo studios
• AAA offices (often free for members)
• Some office supply stores (e.g., Office Depot, Staples—call ahead to confirm availability)

It’s also a good idea to carry two extra passport photos when traveling abroad. They may be needed for local permits, visas, or replacement documents in case of loss or theft.

Immunizations and Health Preparation

Vaccinations Required for Burkina Faso

Before traveling, visit a local travel health clinic or your healthcare provider to receive all necessary immunizations. You can check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for current vaccine recommendations at:
CDC: Burkina Faso Traveler’s Health

Commonly recommended vaccines for travel to Burkina Faso include:

• Yellow Fever (required for entry)
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A and B
• Meningococcal meningitis
• Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis (Tdap booster)
• Polio booster (in some cases)

Malaria Prevention

Burkina Faso is a malaria zone, so your doctor will likely prescribe anti-malarial medication (such as Malarone, Doxycycline, or Lariam). Begin your medication before departure and continue as directed after returning home.

Yellow Vaccination Card

After receiving your shots, you’ll be given a yellow fold-out International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV). This document serves as official proof of your immunizations.

• Keep the original with your passport at all times.
• Make two photocopies—store one separately in your luggage and another with someone at home.

Book your appointment at least 4–6 weeks before departure, as some vaccines require multiple doses or waiting periods for full effectiveness.

Visa Application for Burkina Faso

How to Apply

U.S. citizens must obtain a visa to enter Burkina Faso.
The most reliable source of information is the Embassy of Burkina Faso in Washington, D.C.

Official Website: www.burkinaembassy-usa.org
The process is completed online only and is very quick.

Visa Fees and Duration

• Tourist Visa (single entry or multiple entry): $100
• Duration: Up to 5 years multiple entry (request this specifically; otherwise, a 1-year visa may be issued)

Payment Method: Money order or cashier’s check payable to Embassy of Burkina Faso

Supporting Documents Required

When submitting your visa application, include the following:

1. Completed visa application form (2 copies)
2. Your valid U.S. passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity)
3. Two passport photos
4. Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (original and copy)
5. Visa fee of $100

Visa Application Details

When completing your form, you can use the following information where applicable:

Processing Time

Start your application at least one month before travel to avoid delays.

Weather in Burkina Faso

Understanding the climate in Burkina Faso will help you prepare clothing, gear, and travel plans appropriately.

Seasons

• Dry Season: November to March
  • The dry season is considered the most comfortable time to visit.
  • From November to February, the harmattan wind blows from the east, bringing dry and cooler air.
  • Be cautious if you have allergies, as the dust-laden harmattan can make December through February particularly challenging.
• Rainy Season: June to October
  • Rainfall is heaviest in the southwest and lowest in the northeast.
  • Roads may become muddy or impassable in remote areas during heavy rains.
• Hot and Dry Period: Late March to May
  • Avoid traveling during this period if possible. Temperatures are extremely high, and the climate can be unbearable, even for locals.

Temperature Overview (Dano)

• Daytime: 95 – 115°F (35 – 46°C)
• Nighttime: 60 – 80°F (16 – 27°C)

Mosquito Activity

• Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk.
• Those carrying malaria generally come out at night.
• During daytime, mosquitoes are less of an issue, but it is still wise to use repellent and protective clothing.

Additional Weather Resources

• Africa Guide – Burkina Faso
• Lonely Planet – Burkina Faso
• WikiTravel – Burkina Faso

Cultural Customs

Understanding local customs will enhance your experience and show respect for the communities you visit.

Greetings

• Greetings are very important in Burkina Faso, especially in Dano villages.
• When entering a gathering, greet everyone present. Observe the Dagara for cues on proper behavior.
• Handshakes are the traditional form of greeting; hugging is extremely rare.
• Handshakes are expected both when arriving and leaving. Offering your hand signals that you are non-threatening and respectful.

Eating Customs

• Communal meals often include a pitcher of water for hand-washing; a tub underneath collects the runoff.
• Only the right hand is used for eating.
• Meals are typically eaten by hand.
• Embrace the experience and participate respectfully, even if it differs from your usual dining habits.

Basic Dagara Language Phrases

Learning a few local words can go a long way in showing respect and building rapport:

• “Yani-Yani” (yah-nee) – General greeting (“Hello”)
• “Ye Yan We” – Greeting specifically for elders
• “Barka” – Thank you

Markets

Dano Market (Sunday)

• Local vendors sell fresh produce, spices, clothing, shoes, knives, and other items.
• The market provides a great opportunity to experience daily life and purchase unique gifts.

Bobo-Dioulasso (Grande Marché)

• The market is large, busy, and vibrant, offering a variety of local produce, crafts, and textiles.
• Visits to this market are scheduled as time allows, and it is an excellent place to explore local culture.

Protocol with Diviners

Important Guidelines

• Do not engage in any divination or ritual without the facilitator’s explicit consent.
• Some diviners may approach travelers independently. Their intentions may not always align with local customs, so it is essential to follow established protocol.

Showing Gratitude

• Do not thank diviners immediately after a divination.
  • Westerners often feel compelled to express gratitude directly, but in Dagara tradition, doing so may transfer your power away and compromise the effectiveness of the healing or knowledge received.
• Similarly, do not say “goodbye” after healing or ritual work. Departing without immediate acknowledgment respects local spiritual protocols.
• When in doubt, ask a translator or local guide for guidance.
• Gratitude is usually expressed later or through a third party, which aligns with Dagara customs and maintains spiritual integrity.

Health, Malaria, and Medical Care in Burkina Faso

Traveling to Burkina Faso requires careful planning for malaria prevention, insect protection, hydration, and general health maintenance. This section provides practical guidance and resources to help you stay safe and healthy throughout your trip.

Malaria

Malaria is highly prevalent in Burkina Faso. It is strongly recommended that you consult with your primary care physician or a travel medicine specialist to determine the best preventive medication for you.

Recommended resources for up-to-date travel health information:

• CDC Travelers’ Health:www.cdc.gov/travel
  • Offers guidance for vaccines, medications, and preventive measures for international travel. Burkina Faso is listed under the Destinations section.
• World Health Organization:www.who.int
  • Provides detailed information on travel health issues, including malaria prevalence, outbreak updates, and general medical guidance.

Medication Advice:

• Take a prescribed anti-malarial, such as Malarone or Lariam, as advised by your physician.
• Avoid “alternative” or unverified malaria preventatives; travelers who rely solely on alternatives have become seriously ill, sometimes near death, incurring high medical costs.

Insect Control

Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is critical:

Mosquito Nets:

• A standalone/pop-up mosquito net is highly recommended for hotel stays or rural accommodations.
• Traditional ceiling-suspended nets may not always be practical.

Recommended Nets and Suppliers:

• Tropicscreen II: ~$70, available from Campmor
• Travel Tent Mosquito Nets: ~$90, available from Longroad.com
• Campmor Contact: 1-800-226-7667 | www.campmor.com

Insect Repellents:

• DEET-based repellents (e.g., Ultrathon) are effective; test for sensitivity prior to travel if you’ve never used DEET.
• Natural repellents: Essential oils such as lavender and lemongrass can be applied, ideally mixed with a carrier (like witch hazel) and reapplied frequently. Lavender also soothes insect bites.

Repellent Clothing:

• ExOfficio offers lightweight, pre-treated clothing effective for up to 70 washes: www.exofficio.com

Mosquito Activity:

• Most prevalent at dawn and dusk.
• Nighttime exposure carries the greatest risk for malaria.

Additional Resources:

• Medical Letter: Insect Repellents
• Ultrathon Products

Other Health Considerations

Respiratory Care:

• During the dry season, dust levels can be high, especially from December to February (harmattan winds).
• Travelers with asthma or allergies should bring medications and consider face masks, bandanas, or cloths to cover the nose and mouth when traveling by vehicle. Dampen cloths to help filter dust.

Hydration:

• Burkina Faso is very dry, especially during the harmattan season.
• Drink more water than you typically would at home and carry a personal supply throughout the day.

Supplements for Intestinal Health:

• Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE): Add to drinking water or bathing water to help prevent intestinal ailments.
• Activated Charcoal: Prevents stomach upset; note it may reduce absorption of medications.
• Oil of Oregano: 1–2 drops under the tongue daily may discourage intestinal issues.
• Probiotics: Strengthen beneficial gut bacteria; use potent, shelf-stable options like Trenev by Natren.
• Electrolytes: Supplements like Emergen-C help maintain hydration and nutrient balance.

Personal First Aid Kit:
Consider bringing a small kit including:

• Bandages, gauze, tape, ace bandage
• Antiseptic cream, cortisone cream, aloe vera gel, tea tree oil
• Tweezers, scissors
• Aspirin or other pain relievers
• Any personal prescription medications, including anti-malarials

Medical Care in Ouagadougou

In case of emergencies, Clinique Medicale-Les Flamboyants provides quality care:

Contact Information:

• Telephone/Fax: 011 226 50 30 76 00
• Emergency Number: 011 226 70 20 56 06
• Address: Sector 4, Koulouba, 295 Av. John Kennedy, 01 BP 1544, Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
• Email: cabinetmedical.l.f@liptinfor.bf

Keep this information handy during your trip, and consider saving it in your phone and luggage for quick access.

Accommodations During Your Trip

During your stay in Burkina Faso, accommodations will vary depending on location and phase of your journey. You will spend time in hotels in Ouagadougou (Ouaga) or Bobo-Dioulasso (Bobo), as well as at the compound in the villages.

Hotels

Ouagadougou (Ouaga)

• Upon arrival, travelers typically spend 1–2 nights in a hotel in Ouaga.
• Alice Residence is a highly recommended option. Each suite includes:
  • Two private bedrooms, each with its own bathroom
  • Living space and kitchen
• The hotel’s amenities include a restaurant, swimming pool, and internet access, making it convenient for both resting and planning activities.

Bobo-Dioulasso (Bobo)

• Hotel Relax provides amenities such as restaurants, swimming pools, and Wi-Fi.

Dano

• L’Auberge is the only hotel in Dano.
• This is a simple, local-style accommodation suitable for short stays.

Village Accommodations (Compound)

Compound living will provide an authentic village experience while maintaining basic comfort and safety.

Compound Layout:

• The compound is enclosed by mud brick walls, creating a secure and private environment.
• There is an open seating area for meals, socializing, or gatherings.
• Buildings within the compound include:
  • Common living room
  • Dorm-style sleeping rooms
• Toilet, shower, and laundry areas are located at the back of the compound.

Sleeping Options:

• Foam mattresses are provided.
• Guests may choose to sleep in dorm rooms or outside within the compound walls.
  • Outdoor sleeping is cooler but requires daily setup and breakdown.
• Personal belongings and luggage must be kept in the dorms for safety and organization.

Electricity and Charging

While the village does not have continuous electricity or running water, we will use a generator in the evenings. This allows travelers to:

• Recharge camera batteries, cell phones, and other devices
• Have sufficient lighting for evening activities

Voltage and Plug Information:

• Burkina Faso electrical outlets supply 220–240 volts AC, whereas North American outlets supply 110–120 volts.
• Travel plug adapters are required to fit North American plugs into local outlets, but note:
  • Adapters do not convert voltage.
  • Appliances from North America must be dual voltage (110–240V) to be safely used.
• Devices that are not compatible with 220–240V may require a voltage converter or transformer to prevent damage.

Recommended Preparation:

• Bring a multi-purpose travel adapter suitable for Burkina Faso
• Ensure cameras, laptops, and other electronics are dual voltage or bring a converter if needed

Money Exchange and Financial Tips

Currency

• The official currency of Burkina Faso is the West African CFA franc (XOF).
• It is highly recommended to bring sufficient cash for your entire trip. Rroughly $1,000 to $2,000. This will cover:
  • Personal shopping and souvenirs
  • Ritual offerings and other incidentals

Cash and Currency Notes

• Bring new, crisp bills with no creases or tears in denominations of $50 and $100.
• Euros are generally preferred over US dollars, though both are accepted.
• Traveler’s checks are possible but less convenient; banks require extensive documentation, so bring all paperwork with you. Personal checks are not accepted.

Banks and ATMs

• Banks that are convenient for exchanging currency include:
  • Banque Internationale du Burkina (BIB)
  • Ecobank
  • Banque Internationale pour le Commerce, l’Industrie et l’Agriculture du Burkina (Biciab)
• Biciab ATMs in larger cities allow Visa cash advances (MasterCard not accepted), though fees can be high. Take out the maximum allowed per transaction.

Practical Tips for Carrying Cash

• Keep cash on your person, ideally in a small pouch or bag under your clothing.
• Be discreet when accessing money. Avoid taking it out openly from purses, fanny packs, or pockets.
• Consider wrapping larger sums in a handkerchief or other inconspicuous packaging.
• While exploring, carry only enough money for each day; the remaining cash can be safely stored in luggage, but it must be well concealed.
• Upon arrival and before departure, you will have time to visit a bank in Ouagadougou to exchange money. Plan to exchange enough for the entire stay at that time.

Bathing and Hygiene

Hotels

• Hotels offer showers and Western-style toilets, providing comfort comparable to what you might expect at home.

Village Compound

• Facilities are more basic.
• A private bucket bath is provided:
  • You receive ½ a bucket of water to wash your hair and body
  • The remaining water can be used for rinsing clothes
• This method conserves water while allowing you to maintain personal hygiene.

Water and Hydration

• Bottled drinking water is readily available throughout the trip.
• You should plan to drink 1½ to 3 liters of water per day, especially during the hot, dry season.
• Carry a personal water bottle when traveling to maintain proper hydration.

Food and Meals

Breakfast

• Available at hotels or nearby restaurants. Typical options include:
  • Tea and coffee
  • Eggs and bread
  • Bananas and local bean cakes

Lunch and Dinner

• Typical meals include:
  • Salad, yams, cabbage, peas
  • Chicken or goat
• In villages, millet beer and bean cakes are commonly enjoyed in the afternoon or evening.

Restaurants

• Meals taken in restaurants are an out-of-pocket expense.
• Hotel restaurants often provide standard Western-style meals in addition to local cuisine.

Snacks and Personal Food Items

• It is useful to bring snacks for travel or in-between meals, such as:
  • Energy bars
  • Beef jerky
  • Nuts or trail mix
  • Dried fruit

Tips

• Carrying small, portable snacks can help maintain energy during long days of travel or village activities.
• Snack foods also come in handy if local food preferences or preparation methods differ from your dietary needs.

What to Bring: Burkina Faso Travel Essentials

Packing thoughtfully will make your trip comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. All clothing should be lightweight, breathable, and hand-washable. Avoid white clothing as it will quickly become dusty.

Clothing

General Guidelines:

• Women may wear tank tops but should avoid shorts or skirts above the knee.
• Men and women should aim for modest, loose-fitting clothing appropriate for village life and cultural norms.
• A lightweight jacket or sweater is useful for cooler evenings or dusty winds.

Suggested Clothing List:

• Shirts (lightweight, long-sleeved preferred for sun and mosquito protection)
• Pants (lightweight, breathable)
• Skirts (for women; knee-length or longer)
• Jacket or sweater
• Underwear
• Socks
• Hat (wide-brimmed for sun protection)
• Shawl or scarf (for sun, dust, and cultural respect)
• Handkerchief or bandana (dust, sweat, or head covering)
• Sleepwear
• Sandals
• Flip-flops (for bathing or showers)
• Sturdy walking shoes
• Sunglasses (UV protection)

Sleeping Gear

• Linens or sleeping bag (lightweight, compact)
• Pillow or pillowcase
• Towel (quick-dry recommended)
• Face cloth or washcloth

Toiletries

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap or body wash
• Lip balm
• Lotion or moisturizer
• Face wash
• Sunscreen (high SPF)
• Insect repellent (DEET or natural)

Support Items & Travel Tools

• Toilet paper (for rural areas)
• Flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
• Journal and pens
• Permanent marker (for labeling water bottles or gear)
• Camera and memory cards
• iPod, phone, or other personal electronics
• Tape recorder and tapes (optional for notes or rituals)
• Ziplock bags (for organizing, waterproofing items)
• Antibacterial hand lotion
• Laundry soap (travel-size)
• Luggage locks
• Sewing kit (for minor repairs)
• Matches or lighter
• Duct tape (for gear repairs)
• Clothesline (portable for drying hand-washed items)
• Small plastic bin (for washing clothes)
• Tweezers
• Money belt or hidden pouch

Food / Snacks

• Energy bars
• Nuts and trail mix
• Beef jerky or dried meat
• Other preferred snack foods

Medications & Health Items

• Prescribed anti-malarials
• Broad-spectrum antibiotics (if prescribed)
• Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
• Other personal medications
• Herbal supplements, vitamins

Important Documents

• Passport
• Visa
• Yellow Fever vaccination card
• Driver’s license or government ID
• Cash (see Money Exchange section)
• Copies of all essential documents and travel itinerary
• Airplane tickets
• Personal IDs

First Aid Kit

• See separate First Aid Kit section (includes bandages, antiseptic, etc.)

Giveaway / Community Items

• See separate Give-Away Items section (gifts for village hosts or participants)

Day Pack

Most daily activities take place offsite, so it is useful to carry a small backpack or day pack every day. Keep it stocked with essential items you may need unexpectedly:

Suggested Day Pack Items:

• Passport and copies
• Money and valuables (safely concealed)
• Journal and pens
• Tape recorder / tapes (if using)
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Socks (for extra comfort)
• Hat (sun protection)
• Extra layer (shirt or light jacket)
• Snack
• Water (1 liter or more)
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Band-Aids and wipes
• Lip balm
• Medications

Tip: Pack your day pack lightly, but ensure all daily essentials and safety items are within easy reach.

Exchange of Gifts

Guidelines and Protocol

All gifts must be given through Malidoma and with his explicit consent. This will be discussed extensively prior to the trip to ensure clarity and respect for local customs.

Important Rules:

• No tipping or personal gifts “on the side” are allowed, even if villagers request them.
• Individual giving of money or gifts can cause division, jealousy, and disruption in the community.
• This rule also applies to children, do not give money or gifts directly to them.
• At the end of the trip, a collection will be taken, and the money will be distributed as tips to those who have provided significant assistance.

Give-Away Ceremony

Near the end of the trip, there will be a “give-away” event. This is your formal opportunity to provide gifts to the village.

How it works:

• All donated items are placed in a central pile.
• Designated villagers distribute the items fairly and equitably among the community.
• This ensures that everyone benefits and prevents conflict or favoritism.

Suggested Gift Items

Children

• Shirts, dresses, pants, sweaters, sweatshirts, jackets
• Shoes, socks, hats
• Soccer balls and inflation pins
• School supplies: pencils, notebooks, crayons, rulers

Adult Women

• Clothing (traditional garments preferred; avoid slacks or shorts, which are not commonly worn)
• Bras, underwear, towels, blankets
• Soap, spices, kitchen utensils, or gadgets
• Food items: tomato paste (cans), condensed milk, coffee, tea, sugar
• Eyeglasses, aspirin, and small medical supplies
• Jewelry, cosmetics, stick-on nail designs (especially appreciated by young women in the kitchen)
• Hats, shoes, and socks

Adult Men

• Clothing, including jackets or sweaters for cooler weather
• Shoes, socks, slippers, hats
• Sunglasses, reading glasses
• Cigars, cigarettes, or other spirit-related drinks (optional and culturally appropriate)

First Aid Supplies and Sundries

• Band-Aids, cotton, safety pins
• Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin
• Feminine hygiene products and basic medical supplies

Tips for Travelers

• Quality matters: Items should be in good condition, clean, and functional.
• Practicality is key: Focus on gifts that improve daily life or can be shared by the community.
• Packing: Organize gifts in labeled boxes or bags for easy distribution.
• Consult Malidoma if unsure whether an item is appropriate.