Bani is a town in North Burkina Faso known for its seven mosques made of clay.

Understand

Clay mosque of Bani

Bani's seven mosques were constructed starting in 1978 under the leadership of the Prophet of Bani, Mohamed el-Hajj. They consist of six mosques built atop a hill, all facing the grand mosque in the centre of town. The mosques have suffered from lack of maintenance, giving them an older, weathered appearance.

Bani was not on the tourist radar prior to the construction of the mosques. Since then, at least during less restless times in the country, the town has become somewhat of a tourist trap. Expect hordes of children asking you for donations and gifts.

Sleep

• Hotel OASIS du Sahel, ☏ +226 24 46 06 00. (updated Nov 2023)

Go next

• Gorom-Gorom
• Ouagadougou