Looking for a Bal d'Afrique dupe in the UK? Afrique by Phase Fragrances is our Extrait de Parfum inspired by that aromatic, woody scent profile. If you prefer a sweeter citrus-and-wood direction, Afrique Absolute is a separate fragrance inspired by Bal d'Afrique Absolute.
This is Phase's guide to our own fragrances, rather than an independent review. Below, we explain the differences, current bottle options and how to try them before committing to a full size.
Start here: Shop Afrique for the classic aromatic-woody direction, or shop Afrique Absolute for a sweeter citrus and amber-wood profile. Both offer a £5 sample to compare before buying a full bottle.
Which Phase fragrance is inspired by Bal d'Afrique?
Afrique is the match to look for in our current range. Its profile centres on aromatic woods, earthy vetiver and soft violet, with a bright bergamot opening. It is a unisex fragrance for people who enjoy fresh floral notes balanced by a woody base.
- Top notes: bergamot, African marigold and buchu (agathosma).
- Heart notes: violet and cyclamen.
- Base notes: vetiver and cedar.
These are the scent notes listed for the Phase formulation. An inspired fragrance is an interpretation of a scent profile, not a claim that the formula or the wearing experience is identical to the original.
Afrique or Afrique Absolute: which should you choose?
Choose Afrique if the aromatic, earthy and violet-led side appeals to you. Choose Afrique Absolute if you are drawn to blackcurrant and citrus with a sweeter praline heart and an amber-wood base.
| Compare | Afrique | Afrique Absolute |
|---|---|---|
| Inspiration | Bal d'Afrique | Bal d'Afrique Absolute |
| Main accords | Woody, aromatic, earthy, violet | Citrus, woody, aromatic, sweet |
| Opening | Bergamot, African marigold, buchu | Blackcurrant, bergamot, lemon |
| Heart | Violet, cyclamen | Praline, musk, violet |
| Base | Vetiver, cedar | Black amber, cedarwood, vetiver |
| Try it | Afrique 5ml sample | Afrique Absolute 5ml sample |
Sizes and prices
Both fragrances offer these Extrait de Parfum options. Prices below were checked against the live Phase product listings on 18 October 2026. The product pages show current pricing and availability.
- 5ml sample: £5
- 15ml: £20
- 30ml: £28
- 50ml: £38
- 100ml: £65
Roller oil, hair and body oil, and perfume-and-oil bundle options are also available on the product pages. Select the format you want when ordering.
How to judge a Bal d'Afrique alternative
The best choice depends on what you enjoy about the scent. Is it the opening, the violet, the woody dry-down or how it wears over several hours? Start with a sample and wear it on more than one day. Notice the opening, then return to it as it settles, rather than deciding only from the first spray.
Afrique and Afrique Absolute are sold as Extrait de Parfum. Performance varies with the fragrance, application and wearer. Try a sample to see how the scent develops and lasts on your own skin.
Buying from Phase in the UK
Phase Fragrances is an independent fragrance business based in Cardiff. Browse our unisex fragrances, explore woody scent profiles or use Find Your Phase to look up other scent inspirations.
For delivery and dispatch information, see our shipping policy. If you need help choosing between the two, contact Phase and tell us the scents and notes you usually enjoy.
Frequently asked questions
Are Afrique and Afrique Absolute the same perfume?
No. They are separate Phase fragrances with different note profiles. Afrique is inspired by Bal d'Afrique; Afrique Absolute is inspired by Bal d'Afrique Absolute.
Are these original Byredo fragrances?
No. They are Phase products. Phase Fragrances is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to Byredo. References to other brands and fragrances describe scent inspiration.
Can I sample both?
Yes. Each product currently has a 5ml Extrait sample option priced at £5. Sampling both lets you compare the two Phase formulations on your own skin.
