Explore the Ivory Coast: Your Ultimate Travel Guide and Tips
The independent republic of the Ivory Coast (or Cote d’Ivoire) lies on the south coast of the bulge of West Africa, consisting mainly of a vast plateau (except for mountains in the northwest extremity), and hemmed in by five other countries and the Atlantic Ocean. Once, its main cities of Abidjan and Yamoussoukro were showpieces of the continent, politically stable and economically sound, attractive not only by dint of the physical beauty that abounds in the country but also boasting a rich culture.
In 2002 an armed rebellion split the nation, and although a peace deal between the rebels and the government was brokered in 2003, implementation was difficult and a further peace accord had to be signed in 2007. There has been relative stability since 2010 when Alassane Ouattara became president, although the beginning of 2017 did see some political upheaval. Most western governments advise travellers to steer clear of the western region of the country bordering Liberia, due to the risk of violence by the local militias.
Tourists that do brave the political situation can experience attractions in the Ivory Coast such as one of the last remaining virgin rainforests in West Africa at the Tai National Park, an unspoilt wonderland of huge trees, gurgling streams and abundant wildlife. Then there is the impressive Cascade Waterfall, located in a bamboo forest in the lush region around the town of Man, which also hosts the intriguing annual Festival of Masks, with its performing stilt-dancers.
The cities are also worthwhile experiences. The capital Yamoussoukro, a unique city in Africa, boasts a full-sized basilica, reminiscent of St Peter’s in Rome. The stunning cathedral, an internationally rated golf course and multi-lane highways that disappear into the jungle, were built courtesy of long-term president Felix Houphouet-Boigny, who bestowed all these gifts on his hometown.
The largest city, Abidjan, has a cosmopolitan flavour lent to it by its large French and Lebanese communities. Abidjan presents an attractive aspect, set on a lagoon and boasting high-rise buildings such as the spectacular Hotel Ivoire. The city has its landmark cathedral too; St Paul’s was built in 1985 and was consecrated by the Pope. The city has a vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere, offering a few good museums for sightseeing and a rainforest reserve called Parc du Banco for shady relaxation. Despite political unrest and societal challenges, Ivory Coast is undoubtedly a country of great beauty and potential.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official language of Ivory Coast is French but more than 60 native dialects are spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
All foreign passengers to the Ivory Coast must hold proof of arranged accommodation, return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter the Ivory Coast. Visitors will need to get an e-visa prior to arriving; the process is straightforward and is done completely online. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF), which is divided into 100 centimes and is linked to the euro at a fixed rate of exchange. Abidjan has many ATMs but they may not be reliable. Travellers should make sure they have enough cash for their trip, as ATMs are rare outside of the city. Credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and more established restaurants.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Plug types in use are round pin attachment plugs or round pin plugs and receptacles with a male grounding pin.
Overview
The Ivory Coast has a number of interesting attractions available for sightseeing. Abidjan itself has the Parc du Banco on the outskirts of the city, where visitors can experience the rainforest’s flora and fauna. Inside Abidjan city is the Hotel Ivoire, which is a glamourous place to stay. St Paul’s Cathedral is another site within the city of Abidjan worth a visit for sightseeing tourists.
Further afield, visitors can see the capital city (by name only) of Yamoussoukro, which is famous for multiple-lane highways leading straight into the jungle, or city streets and blocks all laid out, but with no houses or structures lining the streets. Yamoussoukro is also famous for the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro (Basilica Notre Dame), which is roughly based on St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. The town of Man is also well known for its fabric and the traditional masks on sale, as well as for its surrounding waterfalls and beautiful natural scenery.
Climate in Ivory Coast
The coastal region, where temperatures stay fairly constant between 73F to 80F (23C to 27C), is dry for most of the year, experiencing an intensely wet rainy season between mid-May and mid-July. In the central forest region of the country, however, it is continually wet and humid. The hottest part of the country is the northern savannah, where temperatures can reach 90F (32C). The north experiences a long wet season from June to October.
Health Notes when travelling to Ivory Coast
There is a risk of yellow fever transmission and yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. Vaccination is recommended for typhoid, hepatitis A and hepatitis B, and meningococcal vaccine is recommended for travel between November and June. Travellers should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. Effective mosquito repellent is necessary, as visitors may be exposed to chikungunya, dengue fever and zika virus. All water should be sterilised before use, and milk, which is unpasteurised, should be boiled. Travellers should avoid dairy products and ensure meat is well cooked and eaten hot; fruit and vegetables should be cooked and peeled before consumption. Medical treatment in Abidjan is of reasonable standard, though private care is expensive and facilities outside the major towns are very limited. Medical insurance with provision for repatriation is essential.
Safety Notes when travelling to Ivory Coast
The political situation in Ivory Coast is volatile and demonstrations can occur unexpectedly. Travellers should take care in public places and avoid crowds. Violent crime is on the increase, including armed break-ins, car jackings, muggings and hold-ups in restaurants. Evening rush hour on Abidjan’s Charles de Gaulle Bridge is particularly dangerous. Visitors should be meticulous in respecting the numerous army and police roadblocks, as police and security forces can be excitable and undisciplined. Particular care should be taken in the north and west of the country, where there have been frequent clashes. Travellers should be aware of conmen and touts when arriving at Abidjan airport, and the bridges crossing the lagoon in Abidjan should be avoided by those on foot. Taxis, except for metered orange taxis in Abidjan, are risky and often not roadworthy. Buses are overcrowded and best avoided.
Customs in Ivory Coast
It’s prohibited to take photographs near sensitive sites such as military or government buildings, and possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs is a serious offence that can lead to heavy fines and lengthy prison sentences. Religion strongly influences life in the country, so visitors should respect local religious customs at all times. Homosexuality is not illegal, but LGBT travellers should be discreet as there is no legal recognition for LGBT couples, there are no specific anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBT individuals, and attitudes in Ivory Coast may be less tolerant.
Duty Free in Ivory Coast
Travellers to the Ivory Coast do not need to pay customs duty on 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 25 cigars or 250g of tobacco; one bottle of wine and one of spirits; 500ml eau de toilette and 250ml of perfume. Currency should be declared.
Doing Business in Ivory Coast
Though business in the Ivory Coast is fairly formal and punctuality is a must, more casual cotton suits are acceptable attire on account of the heat. Business is often conducted in French, but translators are readily available; greeting and acknowledging each person present with a handshake is important. Business hours are usually from 7.30am to 12pm, and 2.30pm to 6pm on weekdays, and from 8am to 12pm on Saturdays.
Communication in Ivory Coast
The country code for Ivory Coast is +225. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Travellers can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones; WiFi is available in hotels and restaurants in Abidjan, but may be harder to find in rural parts of the country.
Tipping in Ivory Coast
A service charge is usually added to hotel and restaurant bills, though a tip of 10 to 15 percent would be appreciated. Taxi drivers usually expect 10 percent.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to the Ivory Coast must hold proof of arranged accommodation, return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter the Ivory Coast. Visitors will need to get an e-visa prior to arriving; the process is straightforward and is done completely online. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa to enter the Ivory Coast.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa to enter the Ivory Coast.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyound the period of intended stay. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa to enter the Ivory Coast.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa to enter the Ivory Coast.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa to enter the Ivory Coast.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa to enter the Ivory Coast.
Tourist Offices
Ivory Coast Embassies
- In the United States:
Ivory Coast Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 797 0300.
- In Canada:
Ivory Coast Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 (613) 236 9919.
- In the United Kingdom:
Ivory Coast Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7201 9601 and +44 20 7235 6991.
- In South Africa:
Ivory Coast Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 342 6913/4.
Foreign Embassies in Ivory Coast
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Abidjan: +225 2249 4000 and +225 2249 4594.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Abidjan (also responsible for Australia): +225 2030 0700.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Abidjan: +225 2244 2669.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Abidjan: +225 2244 5963 and +225 2244 7534.
Currency Converter
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
