A short drive south of Bobo-Dioulasso, the sacred pools of Dafra lie at the foot of a rocky cliff, where huge catfish — some over a metre long — surface from the deep green water to take offerings from pilgrims and visitors. The site is a working shrine for the Bobo people, and the fish are considered sacred messengers.
Reaching the pools requires a hot 30-minute walk down a steep, rocky path from where vehicles must park; sturdy shoes and water are essential. Bring a guide from town who can negotiate the small fee with the priests and explain the ritual. The setting is spectacular: the cliff, the deep pool, the smoke from offerings, and the absolute stillness.