Do you want to learn about the types of snakes found in Burkina Faso?

If so, you have come to the right place. In the article below, I have listed the MOST COMMON snakes you can expect to see. Unfortunately, there are so many snakes that live in Burkina Faso that it would be impossible to list each one. 🙂

You’ll see that the snakes in Burkina Faso are very different from each other. They range from venomous species to snakes that use constriction to immobilize their prey. In addition, certain snakes are common to find living around people. For each species, you will find out how to identify that snake correctly, along with pictures, interesting facts, and RANGE MAPS!

2 types of snakes in Burkina Faso:

#1. Central African Rock Python

Python sebae

Also known as Northern African Rock Python

Identifying Characteristics:

Adults reach impressive lengths of 350-750 cm (138-295 in).
It has two noticeable lines from the nose to the back of the head.
Striped blotches decorate the body, colored olive, brown, or yellow.
There is a distinct yellow inverted “V” marking under the eyes.

The Central African Rock Python is the longest snake in Burkina Faso!

Found near bodies of water, this heavyweight python enjoys environments such as forests, savannas, swamps, and semi-deserts.

Central African Rock Pythons may be non-venomous, but don’t let that give you a false sense of security. This species is strong enough to kill a human with its powerful constriction. Additionally, they routinely swallow antelopes, monkeys, and monitor lizards whole.

Unlike most snakes, Central African Rock Pythons are protective mothers. They fiercely guard their nest after laying eggs, protecting their young from predators and lashing out at unsuspecting passersby. They’re even known to be territorial of a nest after the eggs have hatched!

#2. Black-necked Spitting Cobra

Naja nigricollis

A. Morph #1: Black or gray body with pink bars on the broad neck and a reddish belly.
B. Morph #2: Light brown or yellow body with no neck bands.
C. Morph #3: White and black stripes on the body or solid white with dark eyes.
Average length is 1-2 m (4-7 ft).

Look for these snakes in Burkina Faso near streams and rivers in savannas.

Black-necked Spitting Cobras are highly adaptable and can be active day or night. This far-ranging snake’s prey includes small vertebrates on the ground or bird eggs in trees.

When confronting possible threats, Black-necked Spitting Cobras rise from the ground and spread their impressive neck hoods. Then, true to their name, they will spit venom to blind their aggressors. Keep your eyes covered because these cobras have amazing aim and can hit their target up to seven meters away!

Black-necked Spitting Cobra bites can cause symptoms such as swelling, blistering, extreme pain, and loss of limb function. In worst-case scenarios, death may occur due to paralysis of the diaphragm.

2 COMMON Snakes in Burkina Faso! (2025)