Visit Ivory Coast Best things to do and see

Between the enticing effervescence of Abidjan and the sublime serenity of the beaches along the Atlantic Coast, Ivory Coast is a country of incredible contrasts. Offering varied landscapes, cultural heritage, beaches and outdoor activities, this West African destination has something to satisfy every fancy!

An untouched paradise on Earth

Visiting Ivory Coast’s national parks and reserves is a great way to dive into the country’s raw beauty. Taï National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, gets top billing for its impressive biodiversity, where chimpanzees and elephants compete to be the stars of the show. On the coast, relish the peace and quiet at the beaches of Grand-Bassam and Assanie Bay, their fine sand and turquoise waters an invitation to simply sit back and relax. The region of Man, all verdant mountains and gushing cascades, is a go-to destination for hikers on the lookout for epic landscapes. A world-unique biosphere, the Abokouamekro Game Reserve is a refuge for a multitude of endemic species that include pygmy hippos and Diana monkeys. Last but not least, the mysterious Banco National Park on the outskirts of Abidjan city centre is a dense tropical forest you won’t want to miss.

Abidjan, a dynamic and avant-garde capital

Well known for its business district, Abidjan, Ivory Coast’s capital, displays different faces, an alluring blend of hip concept stores, art galleries and cutting-edge architecture. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the Plateau district to admire the city’s contemporary buildings and take a tour of the astonishing St. Paul’s Cathedral, the handiwork of the Italian architect Aldo Spirito. The neighbourhoods of Treichville and Cocody Saint-Jean, buzzing with colourful markets, afford visitors an authentic glimpse into Ivorian culture. The city’s Musée des Civilisations houses an impressive collection of art and artefacts that recount the country’s fascinating history. For the full Ivorian experience, indulge in the local gastronomy and take part in the festivals that fill the streets with music and celebration, like the Fêtes des Masques in Man, or the Abidjan Carnival.