The Ivory Coast, also known as Cote d’Ivoire, is an African country located in the Gulf of Guinea. It is bordered by Ghana, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Liberia. It is home to beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities. With its rich culture and diverse people, the Ivory Coast is a great place to explore and experience.
Come along, and let’s take a closer look at all the things to do, see, and experience while in this beautiful country:
Location
The Ivory Coast is a West African country located on the Gulf of Guinea and bordered by Liberia, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ghana. The capital city is Yamoussoukro, but the largest major metropolitan area and the country’s economic hub is Abidjan in the extreme southeast. The landmass size is slightly larger than New Mexico in the United States.
The terrain is mostly high savannah with some densely forested areas in the south and west and along the coastal regions. This varied terrain gives rise to multiple climatic conditions, from tropical along the coasts too much hotter semi-arid in certain parts of northwest Ivory Coast. Conversely, from east to west, it shrinks from a humid, humid sub-equatorial climate to a more dry climate favored by hot air masses leaking in from Sahel areas on neighboring countries, including Mali and Burkina Faso up north or Liberia further west.
Generally, temperatures are high throughout most parts of the Ivory Coast throughout the year, with few fluctuations even during winter months caused by monsoon season coming close to coasts between July and October.
Climate
The climate of Ivory Coast is generally warm and humid, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures are consistent throughout the year but vary according to elevation, latitude, and proximity to the coast.
Average temperatures across the country from April to October range from 65°F – 95°F (18°C – 35°C), accompanied by high levels of humidity year-round. December through March is known as the “little dry season,” which typically brings cooler temperatures during the days while nighttime temperatures remain high.
Rainfall is abundant in Ivory Coast and varies according to region. In the south, near border areas such as Lofa, Nimba, and Gbarpolu Counties, rainfall can reach up to 50in/127cm per year with two rainy seasons: March-May and September-November. Coastal areas also experience two rainy seasons from March-June and August-October, but with far less annual rainfall than mountainous regions, averaging around 40in/102cm per year. The northern parts of Ivory Coast have significantly less rain than any other region, with a reported 12in/30cm or less each year concentrated into a single rainy season between April-July. North Ivorian cities such as Korhogo experience relative dryness outside this season, given their proximity to desert areas like Mali or Algeria in West Africa.
Population
With a population of around 25 million people, the Ivory Coast is home to many ethnic and linguistic groups. The majority of citizens identify as Akan (42%), Voltaic (17.9%), Northern Mande (17%), Krou (10.4%), and Southern Mande (7%). French is the official language, but other local languages are spoken, including Baoulé, Dioula, Anyin, and Alladian.
The Ivorian culture is also heavily influenced by its close neighbors, such as Ghana, Mali, and Burkina Faso, as well as its historical connection with France. Music plays an important role in their daily lives; traditional styles such as Zouglou, Coupé-Décalé, and Makossa are rooted in Ivorian culture.
The capital city of Abidjan has rapidly developed over recent years to accommodate growing numbers of tourists. As a result, Abidjan provides an excellent starting point for those new to Ivory Coast travel; here, you can explore bustling markets, vibrant nightlife options, and stunning natural scenery that makes this country unique.
Transportation
Getting around in Ivory Coast can be challenging, but multiple transportation options are available for visitors. Although driving is possible on the Ivory Coast, it is not recommended for visitors due to the poor road conditions and lack of signage.
Other popular forms of transportation include:
- Trains
- Buses
- Taxis
- Shared minivan services
Let’s take a look at these options in more detail.
Airports
The Ivory Coast is home to various international airports, the most prominent being the Felix Houphouet-Boigny International Airport in Abidjan. With over 4 million passengers flowing through its gates each year, it is Africa’s 5th busiest airport. This airport serves as a major hub for Air Cote D’Ivoire and also entertains flights from companies such as Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, Turkish Airlines, and Air France. In addition, it boasts an onsite hotel, VIP lounges, and an international terminal for those traveling from further afield.
In addition to Abidjan’s International Airport, the Ivory Coast has two domestic airports accommodated primarily by Air Cote d’Ivoire; the Bouaké Airport in Bouaké near The Gambia River and Port Bouet Airport in Abidjan, which offers flights across West Africa. Both airports offer domestic services within the country with a smaller range outside borders.
For regional travelers wishing to fly within neighboring countries in West Africa, there are also over 20 additional airports across the Ivory Coast, including Yamoussoukro Airport in Yamoussoukro City, which opened only recently in 2015, providing international departure points to nearby African countries such as Chad and Niger.
Roads
In Ivory Coast, the road network covers 53,605 km (33,300 mi), of which about 438 km (272 mi) are paved. The paved roads connect commercial centers and the capital to other cities and towns in the interior.
The most important highway is the two-lane N1 highway, linked from Abidjan to Ferkessedougou on the north side of the country through Bouake and Korhogo. This corridor serves as a major artery in transportation between the northern parts and southern parts of Ivory Coast. Other roads include N2 (which connects Abidjan to Odienne in the northern Ivory Coast) and N5 (which starts at Anyama near Abidjan and connects through Zuenoula to Man).
The secondary transportation network consists of ‘routes nationales’, regional roads, rural roads, and village pathways. Regular bus service is available between almost all major cities, with smaller inter-city buses covering many secondary routes; some companies also offer long-distance services from Abidjan. However, road travel can be dangerous during peak hours due to reckless driving practices by bus drivers in urban areas. Moreover, bad maintenance has caused some roads to become impassable during rainy seasons due to flooding or otherwise impassable terrain along road routes.
Public light transit buses serve most cities, including Abidjan, Bouake, and San Pedro. However, taxis tend to be expensive compared with bus services, even though they are more comfortable for short trips across some cities. Automobiles also run on main highways adding up to 80% cars by far more than other vehicles like buses or trucks due to their affordability among wealthier citizens who can afford them but might not use them over other options when traveling across long distances due to fare cost differences between automobiles and buses which are usually cheaper.
Railways
Ivory Coast’s railway system is controlled by the national government-owned Société Nationale des Transports Ferroviaires (SONARAIL) and is part of the West African Railways Network. It is mainly used to transport agricultural goods and other raw materials but has recently become more established for passenger travel.
Trains travel daily from Abidjan to other major cities, including Bouaké, Divo, Aboisso, San-Pédro, and Koudougou. Most trains are freight wagons that offer limited seating facilities for passengers. Overnight sleeper services also run between Abidjan and Ouaga in Burkina Faso via Daloa; however, these services can take up to 24 hours to complete the journey because of continuous train delays along the route.
Tickets can be purchased from SONARAIL offices in most cities several days before departure. Prices vary depending on the length of your journey and the availability of cabins – first-class cabins are considerably more expensive than discounted three-bed cabins or economy seats on freight wagons. Wagon services usually leave early in the morning, with their routes ending at nightfall; however, first-class services often depart later and take longer trips than cheaper services due to night rest stops being required for passengers’ comfort.
Accommodation
When visiting Ivory Coast, accommodation options can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts offering all amenities. To choose the best option for your stay, you should consider your budget, location, and the type of experience you want to have.
This article will explore the best accommodation options in Ivory Coast, so you can make an informed decision when planning your trip.
Hotels
Ivory Coast offers many accommodations, including luxury hotels, mid-range resorts, private homes, and affordable hostels. When choosing the right hotel, deciding the type of accommodation best suited for your needs is important.
For those looking for a bit of luxury, there are high-end hotels with full-service amenities such as concierge services and international restaurants. Prices vary depending on the size and location of the hotel but generally start from around $150 per night. High-end resorts provide an all-inclusive experience with plenty of facilities and various activities. Prices start from $350 per night, depending on season and location.
Mid-range hotels have fewer facilities than luxury hotels. Still, they offer clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices ranging from around $60 per night for basic rooms to around $100 for larger rooms in more popular parts of town.
Budget travelers should consider staying in hostels or private homestays to gain insight into life in this beautiful country while saving money on their accommodation costs, as prices can be as low as $15 per night for a single room in some areas.
Hostels
In the Ivory Coast, hostels are popular among budget travelers. Hostels are basic but clean, with shared rooms and bathrooms. Usually, they have communal areas outdoors or indoors, such as a garden, a patio, or a lounge. It’s important to check if bedding is included or policies regarding food or drinks before booking.
Hostel amenities may include Wi-Fi access, private lockers for your luggage, and even laundry facilities. Many hostels also provide information about the local area and cheap transport options. However, payment is sometimes required in cash in advance, and extra costs may be associated with your stay, such as city taxes. Prices range from as low as $6 per night for dormitory rooms to around $50 per night for private single/double rooms, with air conditioning and Wi-Fi connections being optional but generally available at an extra cost.
Hostels are great for socializing with other travelers, but you should always check the ratings of any hostel before booking it to ensure you get what you expect!
Camping
Ivory Coast welcomes campers and offers various camping options, from coastal sites with soft sand and spectacular views to mountain sites that provide the ultimate off-the-beaten-path adventure. Weather permitting, camping is allowed in most Ivory Coast national parks, offering well-maintained campgrounds at no cost or very low fees.
Camping on beaches or designated campsites is especially popular among outdoor adventurers who wish to explore the coast from an up-close perspective. Designated beach campsites are equipped with fire pits and waste barrels for easy access to cooking resources; however, if you plan to stay overnight on a beach, it’s important to bring supplies such as sleeping gear and drinking water. Be mindful that camping in Ivory Coast comes with unique risks — pack basic first aid kits and familiarize yourself with the local conditions before embarking on your journey.
Relevant details re: campgrounds:
- Fire pits and waste barrels for easy access to cooking resources
- Sleeping gear and drinking water
- Basic first-aid kits
Attractions
The Ivory Coast has many attractions that will make your trip memorable. From the brilliant beaches of Grand Bassam to the incredible jungle of Taï National Park, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
Here are some of the Ivory Coast’s most famous attractions that you need to visit:
National Parks
Ivory Coast has a large network of national parks dedicated to preserving its region’s unique fauna and flora. Nature enthusiasts have plenty of opportunities from the small but picturesque Grand Lahou National Park in the south to the sprawling rainforest-covered Comoé National Park in the north. Most parks have visitor centers with educational programs and onsite camping.
Grand Lahou National Park is on the coast and encompasses a stunning archipelago of mangrove-ringed islands, lagoons, and beaches. It’s an important breeding ground for sea turtles and is home to some of the rarest birds in Africa. The park also boasts pristine beaches, making it an ideal destination for beachgoers looking for peace away from tourist hubs like Abidjan.
Comoé National Park is one of the largest national parks in West Africa and provides a refuge for wildlife, including elephants, hippos, lions, buffaloes, leopards, cheetahs, and much more. Located in the northern Ivory Coast along the border with Burkina Faso, this massive park covers nearly 4 million hectares (10 million acres) of savanna woodlands and rainforest habitats. It’s considered one of Africa’s most important wetland areas because it supports many bird species and hundreds of mammal species.
Ayenouan Biosphere Reserve is located in the southwestern Ivory Coast near Mania in Montagnes District Prefecture along an incredible stretch of coastline that would be otherwise inaccessible without visiting this particular reserve. This 247 km2 (96 sq mi) protected area consists mostly of lowland habitats along small lakes ripe with local wildlife such as monkeys and pythons – quite a sight!
In addition to biodiversity hotspots like Ayenouan Biosphere Reserve, numerous other sanctuaries provide habitats for exotic species such as chimpanzees, gorillas, or endangered birds like hornbills or parrots across Ivory Coast’s reserves.
Beaches
The Ivory Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From golden sand and tropical waters to lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife, this West African nation has something for every traveler. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an adventurous holiday, there are plenty of amazing attractions on the Ivory Coast coastline.
Grand Bassam Beach is one of the best places to visit along the Ivory Coast’s coast, known for its stunning sunsets and crystal-clear waters. The area also boasts fantastic seafood restaurants where you can sample various local dishes. Other popular beaches include Assinie Beach and Abidjan Beach, which offer amazing views of lush greenery and calm waves.
If you’re looking for more adrenaline-filled activities, head to Assouinde National Park for a unique jungle experience. Take part in an exciting boat tour through sheltered waterways filled with tropical birds and wild monkeys, or hike along well-maintained trails that lead you deep into the forest. You can even go on a camel ride along lovely white sands as you take in sights of rolling hills and palm trees stretching out towards miles of golden coastline that are perfect for swimming or joining locals at beachside markets.
In addition to beaches and jungles, there are plenty of cultural attractions to check out in Ivory Coast as well such as:
- Mount Agou – home to sacred shrines used during traditional ceremonies
- Dabobogo Cultural Village – where visitors can experience authentic lifestyles
- San Pedro fishing village – famous for its vibrant colors
- Freeport Port City’s bustling markets
- Lively nightlife options in Grand Lahou Town
- Fascinating archaeological sites, including ÉbriÉ Lagoon
- Abidjan Cathedral’s captivating architecture
- Grand Mosque Maguelone’s impressive calligraphy
- Artisanal crafts found around Bondoukou Market
– all offering unforgettable insights into this incredible destination!
Museums
Ivory Coast is home to various museums and art galleries serving educational, cultural, and recreational attractions. For visitors interested in the rich cultural heritage of Ivory Coast, there are several museum options from which to choose.
One of the most prominent museums in Ivory Coast is the Musée Municipal Drancourt (Museum of Abidjan). This city-run museum offers a comprehensive selection of African artifacts, paintings, and artifacts representing traditional Ivorian culture. Additionally, the museum features items connected to French colonial rule, including coins and furniture. Visitors can also discover historical insight into Abidjan’s success as an active port by viewing its naval exhibit.
Another highly regarded museum in Ivory Coast is the Regional History Museum of Bouaké. This landmark contains an impressive collection of photographs documenting life in the early 1900s Ivory Coast, including traditional ceremonies and costumes from various ethnicities that inhabited the area before European colonization. Additionally, visitors will find a library full of ancient manuscripts about Côte d’Ivoire’s history and culture on display at this museum.
Those interested in modern Ivorian art should visit Passy Montsiriki Art Gallery in Abidjan. This gallery specializes in works created by contemporary Ivorian artists with a special focus on abstract expressionism and sculpture inspired by local street life. Passy Montsiriki also offers educational activities to foster appreciation and respect for modern African art among younger generations visiting the gallery.
Finally, be sure to explore Fondation Zinsou Museum located near Cotonou. Also known as Fondation BinYounés-Zinsou pour la Culture et Les Arts (the BinYouneS-Zinsou Foundation for Culture & Arts), this private non-profit foundation promotes African art for international education through diverse exhibitions featuring works from noteworthy international artists such as El Anatsui or Bili Bidjocka from West Africa but also from Eastern Europe or South America origins outside Africa like Damian Ortega or Maria Freire to mention few names among many others permanently hosted by this foundation.
Food and Drink
When traveling to Ivory Coast, you’re sure to find a wide variety of unique and delicious cuisine. From the coastlines to the savannas, the food and drink of Ivory Coast are worth exploring.
This section of the Ivory Coast Travel Guide will provide an overview of what to expect regarding food and drinks in the region, along with tips on how to enjoy the local flavors and specialties.
Restaurants
Ivory Coast offers a myriad of options to choose from when it comes to restaurants. Whether you prefer traditional African food or international cuisine, you will likely find delicious and lovingly prepared dishes.
For a taste of traditional regional cooking, many local establishments in the main cities and towns throughout the country offer enticing Ivorian dishes. Notable dishes include:
- Lambi (conch) stew.
- Fufu (a starchy paste made from boiled yams or cassava).
- Kedjenou (chicken simmered with tomato sauce and vegetables).
- Maffe (a peanut-based stew).
Both larger cities, like Abidjan and Bouake, also offer plenty of international cuisine choices; Italian, French, Chinese, Brazilian, and Moroccan cuisines can often be found in many city centers. Seafood lovers will appreciate some of Ivory Coast’s specialty dishes, such as okra with fish sauce or crab cooked with tomatoes in a spicy sauce. Rice is often used to accompany these dishes – red rice is a specialty.
More upmarket eateries can be located in both Abidjan and Bouake, which serve more contemporary French-style meals and some health-focused choices such as salads made with quinoa or fresh raw vegetables served with an olive oil dressing. For desserts, Ivory Coast favorites include banana fritters filled with layered slices of banana topped off with honey or caramelized plantain served hot out of the pan.
Local Cuisine
Ivory Coast’s location on the west coast of Africa means its cuisine is heavily influenced by the country’s neighbors, including Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Liberia, and Ghana. This region of Africa enjoys mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, leading to a warm climate that supports a variety of fruits, vegetables, and livestock. The most popular dishes in Ivory Coast are typically stews or soups known as “Wot,” or plaiting doughs made with flour, sugar, and spices like nutmeg or cinnamon. Corn and millet porridges are also common staples.
A typical local meal could include:
- Lalo stew made with spinach or other greens;
- Maffe (a slow-cooked peanut butter sauce flavored with onions);
- Dokon — chicken cooked in a spicy tomato gravy;
- Aloco — banana fritters;
- Attil — black-eyed peas cooked in peanut butter sauce;
- Abidjan — smoked fish with okra;
- Etouffee boeuf (cinnamon-spiced beef);
- Kedjenoum — chicken simmered in a tomato sauce called kpectouge;
- Djamba mafane – a vegetable stew made with eggplant and squash;
- Saka – plantains, and cassava cooked in a peanut sauce;
- Feuilles de manioc – manioc leaves wrapped into small packages, steamed until tender, then fried.
These dishes often serve as the main entrees for special occasions alongside traditional Ivorian side dishes such as plantains cooked with tomatoes, garlic, or onion relish called brasseur de legumes; akara — fried bean patties served with red pepper sauce called kpakpo shito; jamboleh – small yam fritters served with hot pepper sauce Akettsa aka catsup fruitte (fruit catsup) for dipping. Other local favorites for snacks include foune cacao — roasted peanuts mixed with chopped vegetables; bogeatsga nuts boiled until tender, then mixed with chili peppers and onions. For dessert, locals may choose pralines made from cashew nuts, where the caramelized sugar coating forms an unusual sweetness against the bitter nut flavor inside. Other local treats include coconut cake called gateau coco d’Abidjan’; sweet milk donuts drizzled in honey syrup alodjele; or gâteau aux biscuits Amandine et noix de coco was cookie bars filled cookies flavored pistachio nuts, almonds, date chestnut honey spices.
Not only is food plentiful along the vast coastline, but Ivory Coast also offers an array of delicious exotic fruits like bunyie papayas, mangoes, coconuts, pineapples, guavas, bananas, oranges, tangerines passion fruit, star fruit tamarinds dates, avocados, etc. No wonder this West African county attracts tourists from all over the world, intent on trying out its famous cuisine.
Bars and Clubs
Ivory Coast is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, where you can enjoy refreshments in bars and clubs to mingle with locals and expatriates. There are also more relaxed beer gardens where you can enjoy a pleasant evening conversing over cold drinks with friends. Many bars offer traditional African music nightly, and some have live bands which liven up the environment.
In Abidjan, many luxurious themed nightclubs, such as Sky Club, Curiosa Club, Hide Out Club, and La Cage Dorée. For visitors interested in American music, a few establishments play mainly hip hop, house EDM, and popular music, such as X-Club, Zoe’s Club, and Last’s Loaded Club. The clubbing season tends to start in late December and last until March or April, so it’s likely that you will find a place to let your hair down when visiting Ivory Coast during this time!