Pô Sacred Hills | Po

The Pô Sacred Hills are a series of hills located in the southwest of Burkina Faso, near the border with Ghana.

Visual Characteristics

The hills are composed of laterite rock formations, exhibiting reddish-brown hues. Vegetation is sparse, primarily consisting of dry savanna grasses and scattered acacia trees. The terrain is characterized by steep inclines and rocky outcrops.

Location & Access Logistics

The Pô Sacred Hills are situated approximately 15 kilometers south of the town of Pô. Access is via the N12 national road, turning off onto a dirt track approximately 5 kilometers south of Pô. The dirt track is approximately 10 kilometers long and can be challenging for standard vehicles, especially during the rainy season. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended. There is no designated parking; vehicles are typically parked at the base of the accessible hills. Public transport to Pô is available via intercity buses from Ouagadougou. From Pô, local taxis or motorcycles can be hired to reach the vicinity of the hills.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The hills are of geological origin, formed by laterization processes over millennia. They hold significant cultural and spiritual importance for the local Lobi people, who consider them sacred sites for ancestral worship and traditional ceremonies. Specific historical construction dates are not applicable as they are natural formations utilized for cultural purposes.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can undertake guided hikes to designated sacred sites within the hills. These hikes often involve observing traditional shrines and rock formations. Photography of the landscape is permitted. Interaction with local guides is essential for understanding the cultural significance of the sites.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no formal infrastructure or amenities at the Pô Sacred Hills. Restrooms, shade structures, and food vendors are not present at the site. Cell phone signal is intermittent and unreliable. Visitors should carry their own water and provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April. The period between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM offers optimal lighting for photography due to the angle of the sun. Avoid the peak heat of midday. Access can be difficult during the rainy season (June to October) due to muddy conditions on the dirt track.

Facts & Legends

Local tradition states that the hills are inhabited by spirits and are a place where ancestors communicate with the living. It is customary for visitors to seek permission from village elders before entering the sacred areas. A specific practice involves leaving small offerings at designated shrines.

Nearby Landmarks

• Pô National Park (10km North)
• The Pô Fort (15km North)
• The Ghana Border Crossing (18km South)
• The village of Tiébélé (25km East)