About Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast or cote d’Ivoire is on the west coast of Africa. It is the world’s largest Cocoa producing country. There are around 78 languages spoken here but French is the official language. Abidjan is the economic capital of the country and also the most populated city. It is mostly known for its beaches studded with starfishes and rainforests.
The country is tourist-friendly with visitors staying for less than 91 days not required to have visas. Tourists can enjoy the beaches of the country, Abidjan nightlife and tours to the provinces. The country is an embodiment of tourism in Africa with ancient sites, unique wildlife and desert safaris.
Côte d'Ivoire is a stunner, shingled with starfish-studded sands, palm-tree forests and roads so orange they resemble strips of bronzing powder.
Culture
Ivory Coast has a rich cultural heritage with sixty ethnic groups. These can be divided into four main groups: Akan, Gour, Krou and Mandé. The local communities are very welcoming to tourists. They offer traditional ceremonies, arts, crafts, food and dances so that visitors can discover the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Ivory Coast.
Best time to go
November through March is the best time to visit the Ivory Coast when temperatures are bearable thanks to the warm and dry season. The parks are also abloom during this time of the year and wildlife is abundant. The Festival of Masks, which is the most popular event in the country, is held in November.
How many days do I need in Ivory Coast?
Start and end in Abidjan! With the In-depth Cultural tour Discover Cote D’Ivoire 7-Days, we recommend you have a 7-day visit to Abidjan, Abengourou, Yamoussoukro and Soubre, on Ivory Coast.
Things to do in Ivory Coast
Traveling between cities in Côte d’Ivoire is generally pleasant, the roads are in usually excellent shape, and the bus system is relatively new. Traveling in Abidjan is more enjoyable when you have your own car. Except for a few cab drivers who steer anywhere on the road, the roads are in excellent condition and traffic laws are strictly adhered to. In Abidjan, taxis are a wonderful and convenient method to get about. Simply search for an orange vehicle and wave it down. The fares are extremely reasonable.
Getting around Ivory Coast
By plane
The Felix-Houphouet-Boigny International Airport offers daily scheduled flights from and to Paris with Air France and Brussels with Brussels Airlines. Flights to other West African cities are also available on a regular basis.
By bus
Ivorian buses are generally big, modern and comfortable, and each bus company has its own bus station. Moreover, other bus stations have been built near the highways. Each major Ivorian city has at least one bus company that can take you to Abidjan, the capital city, daily.
By Taxi
Each major Ivorian city's taxi network has its own features. For instance, those of Abidjan and Bouaké are orange in colour while those of Yamoussoukro are white in colour with green and orange stripes.
By Train
Ivory Coast has a single train line which stretches over some 1,200 km. The train network is managed by the (SITARAIL) and links Abidjan to Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso.
The express train is rather clean and fast. However, you are advised to settle for first-class seats which are more comfortable.
Health & Safety
All travellers must have a PCR COVID-19 Clearance Certificate issued by a recognised facility within 48 hours from the date of departure, in line with WHO guidelines. Yellow fever and Malaria vaccination certificate is required from travellers from risk areas. Furthermore, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you are away.
Interesting places to visit in Ivory Coast
Abidjan
Explore The National art museum which displays African culture and craftsmanship, shopping at Treichville, boating by the lagoons ,strolling by the beaches and a visit to the famous St Paul’s Cathedral are the activities you shouldn’t be missing.
Basilica Of Our Lady of Peace
The design of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is heavily influenced by the Basilica of St. Peter in the Vatican City. It is bigger than its European counterpart, making it the largest church in the world.
La Cascade Waterfall
Being a exploring mountain range for mountaineers these days, La cascade is also a great place to swim except for the dry season which is from July to October.
San Pedro
Just relax along the beaches with a drink ,walk along the seashore and spending your evening watching the setting sun along the vast coastline. You may also indulge yourself in some water sport activities offered.
Tai National Park
The park has a high rate of flora and fauna endemism. Indeed, more than 200 endemic plants to West Africa are found in the park. Moreover, 24 bird species and mammals, such as forest elephants, pangolins, pygmy hippos and Jentink duikers are special to the region.
Responsible Tourism
Stay at locally owned lodges in out of the way locations; eat out at locally owned restaurants with just a phrasebook and a smile; haggle in the souks and support smaller cottage industries. By travelling differently, you will be changing tourism for better! Be part of our community.