Lake Tengrela is a small natural lake that is located in the vicinity of the city of Banfora, within the landlocked West African country of Burkina Faso.
Being as one of the official and very attractive places to be seen in the country, also it is an important place from which the local authorities are gathering revenues from all of the visitors that are allured there.
The most striking feature are the amazing hippopotamuses that are spread all around the lake, and according to the locals, they are not attacking humans due to the fact that they are considered sacred.
This small lake is some 2 km (1 mi) long, and 1.5 km (0.93 mi) wide, and it is the perfect place for those who would like a peaceful and relaxing place while visiting Burkina Faso.
The very friendly locals are offering rides around the lake, however, one must be cautious because the flat-bottom boats are lighter than the weight of the hippos, so getting close could be dangerous as the hippos would feel threatened and will capsize the small boat.
The crystal clear water in some places appears to be very shallow, and whoever has not seen hippos, this perfect place is perfect to spot them right away. In addition, the lake is also used a fishing ground for the locals who are living in the nearby village of Tengrela.
The village itself is a very peaceful, where one could see the local majestic architecture with the magnificent granaries in every courtyard that are inviting enough for every visitor to begin conversation with a local and learn more about the traditions and customs of the village and country.
At only 2 hour drive from Burkina Faso’s second largest city, Bobo-Dioulasso, this is the perfect getaway spot for the visitors that would like to see the peaceful and relaxing natural side of the country.
