Yamoussoukro - Discovering Ivory Coast

Travelling to Yamoussoukro

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Yamoussoukro, a pretty good destination in Ivory Coast (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Yamoussoukro and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Yamoussoukro, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ivory Coast, here's everything to know about Yamoussoukro for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Yamoussoukro

Yamoussoukro is the political and administrative capital city of Ivory Coast, located in the central part of the country. With a population of approximately 300,000 people, it is one of the largest cities in Ivory Coast. The city is home to several landmarks such as the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, which is one of the largest Christian churches in the world, and the Presidential Palace, which is the official residence of the President of Ivory Coast. Yamoussoukro also has several parks, museums and cultural centers, showcasing the rich history and traditions of Ivory Coast. The city has a tropical climate with two seasons, the dry season (from November to April) and the rainy season (from May to October). The official language spoken in Yamoussoukro is French, and the local currency is the West African CFA franc.

What to visit in Yamoussoukro

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Yamoussoukro: 1. Basilica of Our Lady of Peace: This is one of the largest churches in the world, with a capacity of 18,000 worshippers. The basilica was built under the direction of former Ivorian President Felix Houphouet-Boigny, who wanted to make Yamoussoukro the capital of the country.
2. Presidential Palace: The palace is a stunning piece of architecture that is worth seeing. It was also built under the direction of former Ivorian President Felix Houphouet-Boigny, who wanted Yamoussoukro to be a grand city.
3. Lake Kossou Dam: This dam is located on the Kossou River and is a great place to visit for fishing, boating or just enjoying the scenery.
4. Culture Museum of Yamoussoukro: This museum has more than 100,000 objects on display, all representing the history of Ivory Coast. Visitors can explore traditional art and crafts, masks, statues, and musical instruments.
5. Parc National de la Marahoue: This national park is located a few miles outside Yamoussoukro and has a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, buffalos, crocodiles, and primates. It’s a great place for a safari-style adventure.
6. St. Augustine Catholic Church: This church was built in 1939, and its architecture is a blend of European Gothic and African traditional styles.
7. Abidjan Museum of Civilizations: Although this museum is located in Abidjan, it’s worth the visit for its impressive collections covering various aspects of African culture and history.
8. The Palace of Felix Houphouet-Boigny Foundation: This is a beautiful palace-turned-museum focusing on the life and legacy of Ivory Coast's first president, Felix Houphouet-Boigny. Visitors can explore his life, his works, and his taste for grandeur.
9. Zoo National d'Abidjan: Although this zoo is in Abidjan, it is easily reachable from Yamoussoukro and offers a great opportunity to see a variety of African animals, including lions, monkeys, and zebras.
10. The Market of Yamoussoukro: This bustling marketplace is a great place to experience the local culture and buy traditional African textiles, crafts, and artifacts. It is a must-visit for anyone looking for souvenirs or an authentic African shopping experience.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Yamoussoukro!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ivory Coast, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Yamoussoukro.

When to go on holiday to Yamoussoukro

The best time to visit Yamoussoukro is between December and March when the weather is dry and temperatures are more comfortable. During this peak season, you will experience sunshine, warm temperatures, and blue skies which is perfect for outdoor activities. Avoid visiting Yamoussoukro between May and October as it is the rainy season and the city experiences a lot of rainfall with occasional storms which may affect your outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Yamoussoukro

To get to Yamoussoukro in Ivory Coast, you can: 1. Fly: Yamoussoukro has its own airport, the Yamoussoukro Airport (ASK), which has flights from Abidjan and some African cities.
2. Drive from Abidjan: You can take a taxi or rent a car in Abidjan and drive to Yamoussoukro. The journey takes about 3-4 hours depending on traffic.
3. Take a bus: There are buses that operate between Abidjan and Yamoussoukro. The journey is affordable, but it may not be as comfortable as other options.
It is advisable to ensure that all necessary travel requirements, such as visas and vaccinations, are met before embarking on your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Yamoussoukro, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Yamoussoukro

There are several delicious traditional foods that you can try in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast. Some of them are: 1. Attiéké: This is a popular dish made from grated cassava that's then fermented and steamed. It has a mildly sweet and sour taste and is often served with sauce, fish or meat.
2. Aloco: Aloco is a fried plantain dish that's actually quite similar to banana chips, but thicker and softer. It's often served with grilled fish or chicken and a spicy tomato sauce.
3. Bangui: This is a local Ivorian dish made from millet, sorghum or cassava, mixed with mashed okra and a spicy sauce. It's usually served with grilled meat or fish.
4. Irio: Irio is a popular soup made from yams, tomatoes, onions, and palm oil. It is usually served with fufu, a staple food made from cassava, yams or plantains.
5. Mafé: Mafé is a delicious peanut stew made with either chicken, beef or lamb. It's often served with rice or fufu.
6. Chicken Yassa: Chicken Yassa is a popular Ivorian dish that's made with marinated chicken that's then grilled and served with onions, garlic, and lemon.
Overall, these are just a few examples of some of the delicious traditional foods you can try when in Yamoussoukro.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ivory Coast here.

Is Yamoussoukro an expensive destination for tourists?

Yamoussoukro can be considered relatively expensive for tourists, especially when compared to other destinations in Ivory Coast. In general, the cost of accommodation, dining, and transportation is higher than average in Yamoussoukro. However, it is still possible to find affordable options for budget travelers with some prior research and planning. It's always good to research and compare prices of accommodations, meals, and activities beforehand to manage the overall trip costs.

Where to find accomodation in Yamoussoukro

Yamoussoukro is the administrative capital of Ivory Coast and offers a variety of accommodation options. The best areas to find accommodation in Yamoussoukro are: 1. Quartier Administratif: This area is close to the administrative offices and offers a range of hotels and guesthouses.
2. Quartier Commerce: This is the commercial hub of the city and offers a range of budget hotels and guesthouses.
3. Quartier des Anglais: This neighborhood offers a mix of mid-range and luxury hotels.
4. Quartiers Akouedo, Tiébissou, and Dabou: These areas are located on the outskirts of the city and offer a peaceful and natural environment, ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center.
It's recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
You can check hotel prices at Yamoussoukro here:
Booking.com

Is Yamoussoukro a safe destination for tourists?

Yamoussoukro is generally considered a safe place for tourists, but like any city or tourist destination, it's important to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur, especially in crowded areas such as markets and bus stations. It's advisable to keep valuable items like passports and money in a safe place, and to avoid walking alone at night. It's also a good idea to stay updated on the latest travel advisories from your embassy or local authorities. Overall, with the proper precautions, Yamoussoukro can be a wonderful destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ivory Coast here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Yamoussoukro.

What type of travelers will enjoy Yamoussoukro the most?

Yamoussoukro in Ivory Coast is a city with a rich cultural heritage and numerous attractions for sightseeing. It offers a range of experiences to all types of travelers. Here's how: - Couples: Yamoussoukro is a great destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. You can visit the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, which is the largest church in the world, and enjoy the picturesque views. You can also enjoy a stroll in the charming gardens of the presidential palace, relax by the pool, and relish the city's culinary offerings at its restaurants.
- Young people: Yamoussoukro can be great fun for young people who enjoy learning about new cultures and exploring natural landscapes. You can explore the rich history of the city by visiting the local museums, such as the Museum of Civilization or the Palace Museum, to learn more about the history of Ivory Coast. For nature lovers, you can plan a visit to the beautiful and serene Yamoussoukro Lake.
- Families: Yamoussoukro can make for an excellent destination for families, as it offers plenty of family-friendly activities. You can visit the popular zoo, which hosts a variety of animals, including zebras, monkeys, and lions. You can also check out the city's water park, offering fun water slides and pools for families to play around. Plus, the biggest vanilla plantation in the world lies in the region and can be visited as well!

How to get around Yamoussoukro

The best way to move around Yamoussoukro in Ivory Coast is by taxi, which is the most common mode of transport in the city. Taxis can be found everywhere and are relatively affordable. Alternatively, you can also rent a car or a motorbike, but keep in mind that traffic can be chaotic and the roads may not be in the best condition in some areas. Another popular way to get around is by using shared taxis or buses, but these options may not be as comfortable or reliable.

What to see around Yamoussoukro

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Yamoussoukro: 1. Basilica of Our Lady of Peace: This is one of the largest churches in the world and a must-visit attraction in Yamoussoukro.
2. Lac aux Caïmans: It is a beautiful lake in the middle of a forest and offers breathtaking scenery.
3. Parc national de la Comoé: This national park is the largest protected area in West Africa and is home to various species of wildlife.
4. Abidjan: It is the largest city in Ivory Coast and located just 3 hours away from Yamoussoukro. You can visit the Abidjan Zoo, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Musée des Civilisations.
5. Grand-Bassam: It is a former French colonial capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the old colonial buildings and relax on the beautiful beaches.
6. Yamoussoukro Mosque: It is the largest mosque in Ivory Coast and one of the largest in West Africa.
7. Parc national du Mont Péko: It is a beautiful park with lush green forests, waterfalls, and various species of wildlife.
For every travel information about Ivory Coast you can click here.

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