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Deux Balés National Park
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Deux Bales Overview

Deux Balés National Park, known locally as “Parc National des Deux Balés,” is a protected area in central Burkina Faso’s Boucle du Mouhoun region. Established in 1937 as the “Forêts Classées des Deux Balés,” the park covers approximately 610 square kilometers (236 square miles) and is situated near the town of Boromo, between the nation’s capital, Ouagadougou, and the city of Bobo-Dioulasso.

The park’s landscape is characterized by Sudano-Zambezian savannas, featuring a mix of grasslands and scattered trees, with gallery forests lining the banks of the Black Volta River (Mouhoun River), which forms the park’s western boundary. The terrain is relatively flat, with elevations ranging from 235 to 310 meters (771 to 1,017 feet) above sea level. While Deux Balés National Park does not feature significant mountains or large waterfalls, the presence of the Black Volta River and its tributaries creates picturesque scenes, especially during the rainy season when water levels are higher.

The park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, serving as a habitat for various mammal species, including elephants, hippopotamuses, buffaloes, and several antelope species such as roan antelopes and western hartebeests. Primates like baboons and green monkeys are also present. The Black Volta River is home to hippos, which can often be observed from the riverbanks. Birdlife is abundant, with numerous species inhabiting the savannas and riverine forests, making the park a notable destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Conservation efforts in Deux Balés National Park have faced challenges over the years. Poaching and human encroachment have historically impacted wildlife populations. In 1968, significant reductions in large mammal populations were noted due to activities by the ‘Service de l’Elevage.’ By 1989, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recommended reviewing the park’s legal status in light of agricultural and mining activities conflicting with the integrity of its elephant populations. Despite these challenges, the park remains a crucial area for biodiversity conservation in Burkina Faso.

Visitors to Deux Balés National Park can engage in activities such as wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and guided nature walks. The park’s proximity to Boromo makes it accessible for day trips, and local guides are available to enhance the experience with their knowledge of the area’s flora and fauna. Accommodations near the park include options like Le Kaicedra Camp, which offers tented suites for an immersive experience under the African sky.

In summary, Deux Balés National Park stands as a testament to Burkina Faso’s natural heritage, offering a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes. Ongoing conservation efforts aim to preserve its ecological integrity, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience its unique environment.

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Park Map
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Deux Bales National Park Highlights

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Deux Balés National Park, located in central Burkina Faso, is a sanctuary where the savannah and woodland habitats host a remarkable array of wildlife that reflects the diversity of the region.

African Elephant
Majestic and highly social, African elephants roam the park’s savannahs and forests, often gathering near water sources to drink and bathe.

Western Hartebeest
This large antelope, with its unique sloping back and long face, grazes in herds across the park’s open grasslands.

Roan Antelope
A strikingly large and powerful antelope, the roan antelope thrives in the park’s woodlands, using its agility to escape predators.

Oribi
This small and delicate antelope is often seen in pairs or small groups, moving gracefully through the park’s grassy plains.

Warthog
Known for its rugged appearance and sharp tusks, the warthog forages for roots and tubers, often kneeling on its front legs to dig.

Aardvark
A nocturnal creature, the aardvark digs into termite mounds with its powerful claws, playing an essential role in the park’s ecosystem.

Spotted Hyena
This scavenger and skilled predator moves in packs, hunting or cleaning up carrion and maintaining ecological balance.

Patagonian Hare (Agouti)
This small rodent-like mammal is an important seed disperser, contributing to the health of the park’s vegetation.

Bushbuck
A shy and solitary antelope, the bushbuck navigates the park’s thickets, feeding on leaves and shoots in quiet seclusion.

Cane Rat
This large rodent, often found near wetlands, is a significant prey species for many of the park’s larger carnivores.

Birds

Deux Balés National Park is a haven for birdlife, with its mix of wetlands, savannah, and woodlands supporting a rich diversity of species that captivates bird enthusiasts.

Abyssinian Roller
This vividly colored bird, with its vibrant blue and green plumage, performs acrobatic flight displays across the savannah.

Senegal Coucal
Often heard before it is seen, this bird’s distinctive call and chestnut back make it a memorable sight in the park.

Grey Crowned Crane
An elegant bird with a striking golden crest, the grey crowned crane is often seen foraging in the park’s wetlands.

Yellow-billed Kite
This agile bird of prey is commonly spotted gliding over the park, scanning for small mammals and carrion.

African Jacana
With its long toes and vivid plumage, the African jacana is a fascinating bird often found walking on floating vegetation.

Northern Carmine Bee-eater
A stunning bird with a bright red body, the northern carmine bee-eater adds a splash of color as it hunts for insects.

Black-headed Weaver
This sociable bird builds intricate nests in trees, often near water, creating a lively presence in the park.

African Pygmy Kingfisher
Small but striking, this kingfisher is frequently seen darting near water, its brilliant blue and orange feathers catching the light.

Wattled Lapwing
A graceful wader, the wattled lapwing is easily recognized by the yellow wattles on its face as it strides through wet grasslands.

Martial Eagle
One of Africa’s most powerful birds of prey, the martial eagle soars over the park’s open areas, scanning for its next meal.

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Engaging Deux Bales National Park

Exploring Deux Balés National Park by vehicle offers an exciting way to observe its diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes. Game drives take visitors through open grasslands and dense woodlands, where species like elephants, hartebeests, and roan antelopes can be seen in their natural habitats.

Early morning or late afternoon drives are ideal for spotting predators like spotted hyenas on the move or herds of grazing antelope. Experienced guides enhance the experience by sharing fascinating facts about the animals and the park’s conservation efforts. The stunning vistas and close encounters with wildlife make these drives a thrilling and memorable adventure.

Guided nature walks provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the park’s ecosystems at a slower pace. These walks take visitors through savannahs, forests, and near wetlands, offering opportunities to see smaller animals, unique plants, and even signs of nocturnal creatures like aardvarks.

Additionally, some tours incorporate visits to nearby communities where visitors can learn about local traditions, sustainable practices, and the cultural importance of the park.

This combination of nature and culture offers a holistic experience, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the park and its role in the region.

Deux Balés National Park’s wetlands and riverbanks are prime locations for birdwatching, attracting a wide variety of species. Guided birdwatching tours take visitors to strategic spots where they can observe birds like the Abyssinian roller, grey crowned crane, and African jacana.

The tranquil environment of the waterways provides a serene backdrop for spotting both resident and migratory birds. With binoculars and field guides in hand, bird enthusiasts can learn about the park’s avian biodiversity and its importance for global bird migration. This activity combines relaxation with discovery, offering unforgettable moments for nature lovers.

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