Dry Season
From November to March, the weather is dry and pleasant, ideal for travel.
Travel guide
Côte d’Ivoire
Côte d’Ivoire, known for its rich culture and diverse landscapes, offers travelers a blend of vibrant cities, serene beaches, and lush rainforests. Beyond the capital, Yamoussoukro, explore Abidjan's bustling markets, the historic town of Grand-Bassam, and the natural beauty of Taï National Park.
San_Pédro-plage4.JPG : Axe derivative work: Jjtkk · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsNovember to March
- AirportsFélix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport, Ya
- TransitBuses, taxis, domestic flights
- Power220V, Type C and E plugs
- TippingAppreciated but not mandatory
- LanguageFrench (official), local languages
01
When to go
The best time to visit Côte d’Ivoire is during the dry season from November to March, when temperatures are more moderate and rainfall is minimal.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Rainy Season
From April to October, expect heavy rains, especially in the south.
Cool Season
The months of December and January are cooler, making it a comfortable time to visit.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Urban
Plateau
The business district of Abidjan, known for its modern architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Busy during weekdays.
Residential
Cocody
A residential area with upscale homes, cultural institutions, and beautiful parks.
Quiet and family-friendly.
Historic
Yamoussoukro
The political capital, famous for the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace.
Less crowded than Abidjan.
Coastal
Grand-Bassam
A UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture and beautiful beaches.
Great for relaxation.
Coastal
San Pedro
A port city known for its fishing industry and stunning beaches.
Less touristy.
Cultural
Bouaké
The second-largest city, known for its cultural heritage and local markets.
Experience local life.
Cultural
Korhogo
A cultural hub in the north, famous for its traditional crafts and art.
Explore local traditions.
Nature
Man
Nestled in the mountains, known for its stunning landscapes and waterfalls.
Ideal for hiking.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Attiéké
A fermented cassava dish, often served with grilled fish or chicken. Look for it in local markets.
→ Try it with spicy sauce.
Foutou
A starchy dish made from plantains or yams, typically served with a rich sauce. Found in traditional restaurants.
→ Pair with groundnut sauce.
Kedjenou
A slow-cooked chicken stew with vegetables, best enjoyed in the Abidjan area.
→ Cooked in a clay pot for flavor.
Garba
A popular street food made of fried fish and attiéké, commonly found in Abidjan's street stalls.
→ Best eaten fresh.
Alloco
Fried plantains served as a snack or side dish, available at roadside vendors.
→ Perfect with a spicy dip.
Banda
A traditional dish made from cassava, often served with a spicy sauce. Look for it in rural areas.
→ A local favorite.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace
Located in Yamoussoukro, this is one of the largest churches in the world.
Taï National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity and lush rainforests.
Grand-Bassam
A historic town with colonial architecture and beautiful beaches.
St. Paul's Cathedral
An iconic church in Abidjan with stunning architecture.
The National Museum of Abidjan
Showcases Ivorian art and culture, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
The Plateau
The business district of Abidjan, known for its modern skyline.
Mount Nimba
A mountain range with rich biodiversity, perfect for hiking and exploration.
The Ivory Coast's Beaches
Stunning beaches along the coast, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
The Abidjan Lagoon
A beautiful lagoon offering boat rides and scenic views.
The Cultural Center of Abidjan
A hub for Ivorian arts and culture, hosting various events and exhibitions.
The War Memorial
A tribute to those who fought for the country's independence, located in Abidjan.
The Comoé National Park
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its wildlife and scenic landscapes.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Côte d’Ivoire is served by Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) and Yamoussoukro Airport (Yamoussoukro).
ABJFélix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport
YamoussoYamoussoukro Airport
Public Transport
Buses and taxis are widely available in urban areas, providing convenient travel options.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights connect major cities, making travel across the country efficient.
Car Rentals
Car rentals are available in major cities for those who prefer to drive.
Biking
Biking is a popular way to explore local areas, especially in rural regions.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type C and E plugs are used. Voltage is 220V.
Cash
The local currency is the West African CFA franc. Credit cards are accepted in major cities.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Round up the bill or leave small change.
Language
French is the official language, with many local languages spoken.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore major attractions.