Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast: general info for travelers

Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d'Ivoire, is a West African country situated on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea. It is the world's largest producer of cocoa and also has significant exports of coffee, oil, and timber. The country has a diverse culture with over 60 ethnic groups, each with their own traditions, music, and art.
Ivory Coast gained independence from France in 1960 and has since struggled with political instability and civil unrest. However, in recent years, the country has made significant progress in developing its economy and improving living standards.
Tourists can enjoy exploring the beautiful beaches, national parks, and historic sites such as the UNESCO-listed walled city of Grand Bassam. The local cuisine is a fusion of African, French, and Lebanese influences, and Ivory Coast is also known for its vibrant music and dance scenes.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Ivory Coast, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Ivory Coast: places to visit

Here are some popular places to visit in Ivory Coast, along with a brief description of each: 1. Basilica of Our Lady of Peace: This is the largest basilica in the world, with a capacity of over 18,000 people. It is located in Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Ivory Coast, and is a great place to see stunning architecture and religious artifacts.
2. Parc national de Taï: This national park is situated in the southwestern region of Ivory Coast and is a place of remarkable biodiversity. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour through lush evergreen forests, see exotic animals, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and many other bird species.
3. Grand-Bassam: This is a popular beachside resort town that serves as a UNESCO World Heritage site, located on the Atlantic coast. It has a rich colonial history and is home to brightly colored colonial houses, historic landmarks, and charming museums.
4. Abidjan: The economic capital and a bustling port city of Ivory Coast, Abidjan is also known as the "Paris of West Africa". The city has many fine dining restaurants, palatial buildings, museums, and beaches to explore.
5. Sassandra: Sassandra is a small coastal town on the Gulf of Guinea, surrounded by lovely beaches and a lagoon with breathtaking views, mangrove forests, and expansive coconut trees. Travelers can visit the local market, enjoy fresh seafood, and relax at the beachside bars.
6. Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve: Located in the far north of Ivory Coast, the reserve is known for its high peak, Mount Nimba, which rises up to an altitude of 1,752 meters above sea level. It is an ideal destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for a unique adventure.
These are just a few of the many fascinating and amazing places to visit in Ivory Coast.
There is more to see and do in Ivory Coast: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Ivory Coast: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Ivory Coast, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Ivory Coast has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The wet season usually lasts from May to October, and the dry season lasts from November to April.
If you prefer to avoid the rainy season, the best time to visit Ivory Coast is during the dry season. This is between November and April when the weather is generally sunny with temperatures ranging from 25 degrees Celsius (77 Fahrenheit) to 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit). However, it is worth noting that the humidity can be quite high during the dry season.
If you are planning to visit the coastal regions of Ivory Coast, the best time to go is between December and February, as this is when temperatures are at their coolest and the sea breezes make the heat more comfortable. Inland areas tend to be hotter, so you may want to plan your trip around cooler temperatures.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Ivory Coast depends on your personal preferences. If you don't mind a little rain, you may find the wet season less crowded and cheaper. However, if you're looking for sunshine and dry weather, opt for the dry season.

Ivory Coast: activities and what to do

Ivory Coast is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of activities and sports for vacationers.
Here are some options to consider: 1. Beach activities: Ivory Coast has a 500 km coastline with beautiful beaches such as Grand-Bassam and Assinie. Visitors can indulge in water sports like kayaking, surfing, and paddleboarding.
2. Safari Tours: Ivory Coast has some incredible game reserves, where visitors can spot wildlife such as elephants, lions, and antelopes. Some of the popular game reserves in Ivory Coast include Banco National Park, Comoé National Park, and Marahoué National Park.
3. Cultural Tourism: Ivory Coast boasts rich cultural heritage, and there are many sites and museums to explore. Visitors can tour the Grand-Bassam UNESCO world heritage site or the Abidjan Cultural Museum to learn about the country's history and traditions.
4. Hiking and Trekking: The country's varied geography offers excellent hiking and trekking opportunities. The Taï National Park is a popular destination, featuring amazing biodiversity, including over 1000 plant species.
5. Soccer and Basketball: Ivory Coast's love for soccer and basketball is evident, and visitors can partake in these sports activities with locals.
6. Music and Dance: Ivory Coast has a lively music and dance culture, and tourists can enjoy music festivals and concerts throughout the year.
7. Shopping: Ivory Coast is famous for its markets which offer a range of local handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs. The largest market is the Treichville Market in Abidjan. These are just a few of the many activities and sports to enjoy during a trip to Ivory Coast. There is something for everyone to make their holiday memorable.

Ivory Coast: few words on history and culture

Ivory Coast, formally known as Côte d'Ivoire, has a rich history and culture. The earliest known inhabitants in the region were the Khoisan-speaking people, who are also believed to have lived in neighboring countries such as Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone. Later, the Akan people migrated to the region and created several kingdoms, including the Kong and Baoule kingdoms, which were powerful during the 18th and 19th centuries.
During the colonial era, Ivory Coast was under French rule, and this has had a significant impact on the country's culture. Today, the country is known for its diverse cultural traditions, including music, dance, and traditional dress. The most popular music styles in Ivory Coast are Zouglou and Coupe Decale, which are both dance-oriented music genres that originated in the country.
Ivory Coast is also known for its delicious cuisine, which features a mix of African and French influences. Some of the most popular dishes include attieke (a cassava-based dish), kedjenou (a chicken stew), and aloko (fried plantains).
Overall, Ivory Coast's history and culture are vibrant and diverse, marked by a mix of traditional and modern influences.

Ivory Coast: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Ivory Coast would be by air and road. There are several international airports in Ivory Coast, including Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport in Abidjan and Bouaké Airport in Bouaké, which connect the country to various parts of Africa and the world. Once inside Ivory Coast, road transport is the most common way to travel between cities. There is a good network of roads that connect the major cities and towns, and buses and taxis are readily available. You can also rent a car if you want to drive yourself.
Air travel is also useful for domestic travel, especially if you want to reach some of the more remote areas of the country. There are several local airlines that offer flights within Ivory Coast. To hire a car to visit Ivory Coast, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Ivory Coast: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Ivory Coast with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Ivory Coast along with their descriptions: 1. Attiéké: This is a staple food in Ivory Coast, made from cassava that has been grated, fermented, and then steamed. It has a slightly sour, tangy flavor and a couscous-like texture. It is usually served with a variety of stews and sauces.
2. Fufu: This is a starchy dough made from cassava, yams, or plantains. It is usually eaten with a soup or stew and is typically used as a utensil, with diners tearing off small pieces of fufu and using them to scoop up the stew.
3. Poulet braisé: This is grilled chicken that has been marinated in a mixture of spices and herbs, including ginger, garlic, and thyme. It is usually served with attiéké and a side of salad.
4. Alloco: This is fried plantain that is typically served as a side dish or a snack. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and is often eaten with grilled fish or chicken.
5. Kedjenou: This is a traditional Ivorian stew made from chicken or guinea fowl that has been slow-cooked with vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and peppers. The dish is cooked in a tightly sealed pot so that the juices from the meat and vegetables are trapped and become a thick sauce.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods you can find in Ivory Coast!

Ivory Coast: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Compared to other countries in West Africa, Ivory Coast can be a bit more expensive for tourists. However, prices can vary depending on the region you are visiting and the type of accommodation, transportation, and activities you choose. In general, hotels and resorts in popular tourist destinations can be quite expensive. Budget-friendly options like hostels and guesthouses may be available, but they may not offer the same level of amenities and services. Restaurant prices can also vary, but street food can be a great and affordable option.
Transportation can be relatively cheap in Ivory Coast, especially if you use public buses or shared taxis. However, renting a car or hiring a private driver can be quite expensive.
Overall, Ivory Coast can be an affordable destination if you plan your trip carefully and budget accordingly.

Ivory Coast: where to find accodation

There are several options for finding accommodation in Ivory Coast: 1. Online booking websites: Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb have a wide range of options for hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and homestays in Ivory Coast.
2. Local travel agencies: You can also contact local travel agencies like Abidjan Voyages or Ivoire Tourisme to help you find accommodation that fits your needs.
3. Ask locals: If you have local friends or acquaintances in Ivory Coast, you can ask them for suggestions on accommodation options. They can also recommend areas that are safe and convenient for tourists.
4. Visit tourism centers: You can visit the Ivory Coast Tourism Promotion office or any tourist centers in Ivory Coast to get information on accommodation options, rates, and locations.
When looking for accommodation in Ivory Coast, it's always important to do your research and read reviews before booking. Make sure to check the location, facilities, and price to ensure it fits your needs and budget.
You can check hotel prices in Ivory Coast here:
Booking.com

Ivory Coast: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the World Bank, Ivory Coast received approximately 2.3 million tourists in 2018. The number of tourists has been increasing steadily over the years due to the country's rich cultural heritage, wildlife, and beautiful coastline. The peak tourist season in Ivory Coast is usually from December to February when the weather is cooler and drier. During this time, popular tourist destinations can be crowded with both foreign and local tourists. However, overall Ivory Coast tourism is still developing, so you usually won't experience crowds of tourists like in some other more popular destinations, especially outside of the peak season.
Ivory Coast is considered relatively safe for tourists, with most visits being trouble-free. However, there are some areas that tourists should avoid. The border regions with Liberia and Guinea are known to have occasional violence, and the western part of the country, particularly in the regions of Tonkpi, Dix-huit Montagnes, and Moyen Cavally, have seen occasional inter-ethnic clashes.
It is also advisable to exercise caution and avoid large public gatherings, protests, and demonstrations, especially in Abidjan and other major cities.
Overall, if you take basic safety precautions such as researching and staying away from high-risk areas, exercising caution while traveling, and being aware of your surroundings, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to Ivory Coast.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Ivory Coast on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Ivory Coast: events for tourists

There are various interesting events that you can experience as a tourist in Ivory Coast, some of the most notable ones are: 1. Abissa Festival - This is a cultural festival held in Grand-Bassam. It celebrates the traditions and customs of the N’Zima people and is marked by a procession of people dressed in traditional costumes, drumming, and dancing.
2. Fête du Dipri - This is a harvest festival held in November by the Guro people. It is marked by dances, traditional music, and rituals to honor the ancestors.
3. Caravan of the Dine - This is a traveling festival held by the Fulani people in different towns and villages across the country. It celebrates the end of the harvest season and includes traditional dances, music, and displays of horsemanship.
4. Festival des Masques - Held in the city of Man, this festival features performers wearing traditional masks and costumes, as well as drumming, dancing, and other traditional arts.
5. Festival National des Arts et de la Culture - This is a national arts and culture festival held in Abidjan. It features a wide range of performances, including music, dance, theater, and visual arts.
These are just a few examples of the interesting events that you can experience in Ivory Coast. There are many more cultural events and festivals throughout the year that are worth checking out.

Ivory Coast: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Ivory Coast, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here is a suggested two week itinerary for Ivory Coast: Day 1-2: Abidjan - Start your trip by exploring the bustling city of Abidjan, Ivory Coast's commercial capital. Visit the St. Paul's Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the country, and the National Museum of Abidjan featuring artifacts from Ivory Coast's past.
Day 3-4: Grand Bassam - Travel to Grand Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former colonial capital of Ivory Coast. Stroll through the colonial architecture and visit the Museum of Costume that showcases traditional clothing from the Ivory Coast.
Day 5-6: Yamoussoukro - Yamoussoukro is home to the largest religious monument in the world, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro. It holds 7,000 people, and you can climb to the rooftop for panoramic views.
Day 7-8: Korhogo - Korhogo is a hub of traditional arts and crafts. Visit the Museum of African Arts, and participate in workshops to create pottery, batik clothing or sculptures.
Day 9-10: Man - Hike the lush mountains of Man or take a tour to the remote villages of the region where the traditional culture of the Dan people is strongly preserved.
Day 11-12: Sassandra - Sassandra is a charming coastal town with pristine beaches, ideal for a relaxing break. Famed for its seafood, enjoy a snorkel excursion or paddle a sea kayak.
Day 13-14: Abengourou - Abengourou is known as the 'City of Nine Sides,' where the Senufo people reign. Easy-to-use hiking trails will lead you through an area of natural beauty, and you can discover the unique way of life of the Senufo people during this time.
This itinerary covers the highlights of Ivory Coast in two weeks and offers a good mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Safe travels!

Ivory Coast: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Ivory Coast described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Abengourou is a city located in eastern Ivory Coast, in the region of Indénié-Djuablin. It is known for its large agricultural fields and for being the capital of the Indénié-Djuablin Region. Abengour... CONTINUE here for a trip to Abengourou
- Abidjan is the largest city in Ivory Coast and is located on the southern coast of the country. It is considered the economic capital and cultural hub of Ivory Coast. Abidjan has a tropical climate an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Abidjan
- Aboisso is a city located in the southeast of Ivory Coast, near the border with Ghana. It is the capital of the Sud-Comoé region and the largest city in that region. Aboisso has a population of approx... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aboisso
- Adzope is a town located in the southern region of Ivory Coast. It is in the Lagunes District and is the capital of Adzopé Department. The town has a population of around 51,000 people and is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Adzope
- Agboville is a town located in the south-east of Ivory Coast, about 80 kilometres to the north of Abidjan, the country's largest city. It is the departmental capital of Agboville Department and has a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agboville
- Anyama is a town located in the southern part of Ivory Coast. It is situated in the Abidjan Department and is about 20 kilometers northwest of the city of Abidjan, which is the economic capital of Ivo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anyama
- Bangolo is a town located in the western region of Ivory Coast. It is the capital of Bangolo Department and is situated near the border with Liberia. The town has a population of approximately 40,000 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bangolo
- Bondoukou is a city in eastern Ivory Coast known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is the third-largest city in the region and has a population of about 200,000 people. It... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bondoukou
- Bouake is the second-largest city in Ivory Coast, located in the central region of the country. It has a population of approximately half a million people and is known for its vibrant markets, lively ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bouake
- Dabou is a town located in the southern region of Ivory Coast, approximately 50 kilometers west of the city of Abidjan. It is the capital of the Dabou Department and has a population of around 70,000 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dabou
- Daloa is a city located in central Ivory Coast. It is the third-largest city in the country, with a population of approximately 250,000 people. Daloa is known for its agricultural economy, particularl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Daloa
- Divo is a city located in the southern region of Ivory Coast. It is the main city of the Lôh-Djiboua Region and has a population of approximately 184,000 people. The city is known for its agricultural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Divo
- Duékoué is a city located in western Ivory Coast. It is the capital of the Duékoué region and is known for its diverse ethnic population, including the Guéré, Yacouba, and Malinké people. The city has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Duékoué
- Gagnoa is a city located in southwestern Ivory Coast. It is the capital of the Gôh region and is known for its large agricultural production, particularly for cocoa and coffee. The city has a populati... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gagnoa
- Grand-Bassam is a historic coastal town located in Ivory Coast, approximately 40 kilometers east of Abidjan. It was the country's first capital city before it was moved to Bingerville and later to Abi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Grand-Bassam
- Grand-Lahou is a coastal town located in the southern part of Ivory Coast, situated around 140 kilometers west of Abidjan. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lagoons, and tropical forests which of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Grand-Lahou
- Gueyo is a town located in the Agnéby-Tiassa region of Ivory Coast. It is a relatively small town with a population of around 30,000 people. The primary language spoken in Gueyo is Baoulé, which is a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gueyo
- Issia is a town in the central-western part of Ivory Coast. It is located in the Gôh-Djiboua region and is the seat of both Issia Department and Gôh-Djiboua Region. The town has a population of approx... CONTINUE here for a trip to Issia
- Korhogo is a city located in the northern part of Ivory Coast. It is the fourth largest city in the country and the capital of the region of Poro. Korhogo is known for its historic and cultural signif... CONTINUE here for a trip to Korhogo
- Man is a city located in the western region of Ivory Coast. It is the capital of the Tonkpi region and has an estimated population of 135,000 people. Man is known for its scenic beauty, with lush fore... CONTINUE here for a trip to Man
- Odienne is a city located in the northwest region of Ivory Coast. It is the commercial and administrative center of the Denguélé region, and has a population of approximately 40,000 people. Its econom... CONTINUE here for a trip to Odienne
- San Pedro is a coastal city located in southwestern Ivory Coast, on the Gulf of Guinea. It is a major port for the country's cocoa and timber exports. The city has a population of approximately 290,00... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Pedro
- Sassandra is a coastal town located in the southwestern region of Ivory Coast. The town is situated along the Gulf of Guinea and it is known for its beautiful beaches, fishing industry, and significan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sassandra
- Seguela is a town located in the northwestern part of Ivory Coast. It is the capital of the Worodougou region and is situated on the banks of the Marahoue River. The town has a population of approxima... CONTINUE here for a trip to Seguela
- Sinfra is a town located in central Ivory Coast in the Marahoué region. It has a population of approximately 17,000 people and is the capital of the Sinfra Department. Sinfra is known for its rich agr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sinfra
- Tabou is a city located in the southwestern Ivory Coast, on the Gulf of Guinea. It has a population of approximately 85,000 people. It is known for its beautiful beaches and the presence of the Taï Na... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tabou
- Touba is a town located in Ivory Coast, specifically in the Haut-Sassandra region, in the west-central part of the country. It is known for being an important religious center for the Muslim community... CONTINUE here for a trip to Touba
- Toumodi is a town located in the central region of Ivory Coast. It is renowned for its agricultural activities such as the production of cocoa, coffee, cotton and palm oil. Toumodi has a moderate clim... CONTINUE here for a trip to Toumodi
- 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 ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yamoussoukro


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