Tourist attractions

Grand-Bassam Historic Town

Region: Lagunes District

Cultural Heritage

World Heritage Site preserving colonial-era government quarter and merchant district; beachside cafes and coastal resort popular.

Taï National Park

Region: Southwest

Natural

Last primary tropical rainforest habitat for pygmy chimpanzees and red colobus.

Yamoussoukro Basilica

Region: Yamoussoukro

Religious Architecture

World's largest basilica magnificent with white marble and stained glass.

Abidjan Overpasses and Lagoon

Region: Abidjan

Modern Architecture

Beautiful bridges spanning Ébrié Lagoon and night views.

Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve

Region: Guinea border

Natural

Biodiversity hotspot with hiking available.

San-Pédro Beach

Region: San-Pédro

Natural

Hidden resort with white sand and palm forest; surfing also available.

Man Waterfall and Bamboo Bridge

Region: Montagnes District

Natural

20m waterfall and bamboo suspension bridge; surrounding coffee plantations.

Comoé National Park

Region: Northeast

Natural

World Heritage Site fusing savanna and riparian forest; elephant and hippo viewing spots.

Plateau District Skyline

Region: Abidjan

Urban Landscape

'Manhattan of West Africa' where skyscrapers and traditional markets coexist.

La Pissandière Sculpture Village

Region: Near Bouaké

Folk Art

Artisan village with mask and wood carving workshops offering purchase experiences.

Suggested itineraries

Southern World Heritage & Beach 6 Days

Duration (days): 6

Highlights: Grand-Bassam, Abidjan city tour, San-Pédro Beach, Taï National Park

Efficiently tour cultural heritage, tropical rainforest, and seaside resorts via bus and domestic flights.

Northern Savanna & Mask Villages 10 Days

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Yamoussoukro, Bouaké Market, Dan mask festival, Mount Nimba trekking

Long route experiencing traditional culture while enjoying savanna and mountain nature.

Travel tips

  • Dry season (Nov–Mar) has best road conditions, optimal for outdoor activities
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate mandatory at entry
  • Credit cards unavailable outside cities; carry cash
  • Public transport mainly minibus "Gbaka" and taxis; negotiate fares before boarding
  • Avoid nighttime walking; use trusted rideshare apps for travel
  • Tap water unsafe to drink; purchase bottled water
  • Most shops open Saturday mornings but many closed Sundays
  • Cocoa plantation and gold mine entry requires advance permission
  • Beware photography prohibition zones (military facilities, bridges, airport vicinity)
  • Simple French greetings facilitate travel