Plizio Visual Lab

Pama Forest

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Forest

Weather…

The Pama Forest (Forêt Classée de Pama) is located in the Kompienga Province of southeastern Burkina Faso and is part of an extensive network of protected areas. Covering tens of thousands of hectares, the forest forms a vital buffer for the Pama Wildlife Reserve and is closely linked to the transboundary WAP National Park complex (W-Arly-Pendjari). The vegetation is characterized by wooded savanna and gallery forests along the tributaries of the Kompienga reservoir. This dense structure provides good cover for a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, various antelope species, and occasionally lions. Since its establishment in the 1950s, the area has served both conservation and controlled hunting, representing an important source of income for regional development. Historically, the Pama region has been a significant center of Gourmantché culture, and the forest houses numerous sacred sites and traditional hunting grounds. Management of the area faces challenges from population pressure and the need for agricultural land, which is why modern management plans focus on the coexistence of humans and nature. The proximity to the Kompienga dam influences the forest's hydrology and creates additional habitats for waterfowl.

Location: Burkina Faso
Nearby: Diapaga (78 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	29	32	32	31	29	27	26	26	27	27	25
Rain mm	0	3	7	45	85	125	187	239	166	69	5	0

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The forest is typically accessed via regional roads in the southeast, often originating from Pama town. Guided tours from the town are the standard approach.

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Best season

It is best visited during the dry, cooler months between November and February. The wet season usually brings heavy rains that wash out the dirt tracks entirely.

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Terrain & paths

The area consists of generally flat to gently rolling wooded savannah, interspersed with dirt paths. Dry grass and thorny scrub can obstruct some routes.

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What to bring

Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing is essential to protect against the strong sun and insects. Carry sufficient water, as facilities are non-existent in the reserve.

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Parking

Parking is generally available at the forest administration outposts or nearby eco-lodges. Never leave your vehicles unattended in completely isolated areas.

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Safety

Encounters with wild animals and the extreme regional heat are the primary concerns, making a local guide indispensable. Be aware of local security travel advisories.

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Time needed

A typical safari or guided nature walk in the area lasts around three to four hours in the early morning. Some visitors opt for full-day excursions.

Geography

Coordinates

11.40000, 1.60000

Facts

Located in the Kompienga Province in the southeast.
Forms a buffer zone for the Pama Wildlife Reserve.
Part of the UNESCO-recognized WAP conservation complex.
Near the large Kompienga hydroelectric dam.
Home to megafauna including elephants and lions.
Established as a protected forest in the 1950s.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Pendjari Lion Territory16 km · SWExplore →

Pendjari River17 km · SWExplore →

Pama Lowlands28 km · SWExplore →

Porga Wildlife Reserve32 km · SExplore →

Tanguiéta Foothills39 km · SWExplore →

Pendjari Plain40 km · SWExplore →

Atakora Mountains46 km · WExplore →

Gourou Lake46 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is hunting allowed in the forest?

Controlled hunting is possible in special concessions.

Can you see elephants there?

Yes, Pama is known for elephant migrations.

How safe is the forest?

Wildlife and remote location require a professional guide.

Are there campsites?

There are some hunting camps that also host tourists.

When is the best time for wildlife viewing?

At the end of the dry season (March-May) when animals come to water.

Pama Forest: where is it located?

Pama Forest is located in Burkina Faso.

Pama Forest: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

Pama Forest: why is it worth visiting?

The Pama Forest (Forêt Classée de Pama) is located in the Kompienga Province of southeastern Burkina Faso and is part of an extensive network of protected areas.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →