Things to do in Ivory Coast!
The Republic of Ivory Coast is a West African nation celebrated for its beautiful beaches, storied history, and dynamic music culture. Naturalists and adventurers will appreciate this stunning country’s variety of landscapes, from verdant jungles to pristine beaches. Visitors to Ivory Coast can explore the country’s bustling cities, such as Abidjan, the economic capital, and Yamoussoukro, the political capital, which offers a fascinating blend of modern and traditional cultures.
The country is also recognized for its exquisite cuisine, including delicacies such as attiéké, a fermented cassava couscous, and grilled fish served with spicy sauce. In addition to cultural experiences, Ivory Coast provides various outdoor activities, such as hiking in the lush forests of Taï National Park, surfing in the Atlantic Ocean, and seeing the majestic Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro.
Best things to do in Ivory Coast
See Yamoussoukro’s Basilica
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro is an amazing landmark and a must-visit attraction in Ivory Coast. This massive church, built after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, is one of the largest churches in the world, with a seating capacity of over 18,000 people. The interior is beautifully embellished with marble, gold leaf, and stained glass, while the outside has a vast plaza and a magnificent dome that can be seen from miles away. Those interested in the basilica’s fascinating history and unique architecture can take a guided tour.
Unwind on Grand-Bassam’s sandy Shores
Ivory Coast’s Grand-Bassam is a charming seaside resort town. It has beautiful beaches with clear water and is conveniently located near Abidjan. You can go surfing, paddleboarding, swimming, and playing on the beach. The seafood in particular is delicious, and plenty of eateries have ocean views. Crumbling structures dating back to when the country was governed by France make this town unique. Fun and education go hand in hand in Grand-Bassam.
Get out and see the sights in Abidjan
Abidjan is a city in Ivory Coast where many people work and live. It is a busy and fascinating area with many things to do and see. In Abidjan, you can go to the market to buy fresh fruits and vegetables and handmade crafts. One of the biggest and busiest marketplaces is the Treichville Market, where you may discover all sorts of products to buy. One such museum is the Musée National des Costumes, which houses a vast historical clothing and accessories collection.
Ta National Park hike
Ivory Coast’s Ta National Park is so unique that it was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Beautiful rainforests, home to various plant and animal species, may be found in this southwest corner of the Ivory Coast. The park is home to various endangered species, including pygmy hippopotamuses, chimpanzees, and leopards. One of the nicest things to do in Taï National Park is to go on a hike. Various routes go through the forest and along rivers and waterfalls.
Visit the Musée National des Costumes in Abidjan
The Musée National des Costumes is an amazing museum in Abidjan where you can learn about the Ivory Coast’s many cultures and traditions through its collection of costumes and textiles. The museum contains various exhibitions where you can see the garments that different ethnic groups in the Ivory Coast wear and learn about the history and symbolism behind each one. The Musée National des Costumes is a wonderful site to visit if you’re curious about other peoples’ customs and clothing.
Korhogo’s Artistic Legacy
Korhogo, located in the northern Ivory Coast, is known for its exquisite handicrafts. Weaving and woodcarving are two of their most well-known specialities. Visit Korhogo’s workshops and markets to see and buy these things. The city is also home to several museums, such as the Musée des Arts ET Traditions de Côte d’Ivoire, which showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage through displays of traditional masks, costumes, and other artefacts. Korhogo is an excellent site to visit if you want to learn about traditional arts and crafts.
Cruise the Ébrié Lagoon
Abidjan, the capital and largest city in Ivory Coast, is home to the enormous and beautiful Ébrié Lagoon. The largest of its kind in West Africa, the lagoon is rich in history and culture. Taking a boat ride around the lagoon is a lot of fun. Mangrove forests, fishing towns, and various avian species are just some of the sights to behold on this excursion. Because the lagoon is integral to Abidjan’s history and culture, it’s a great place to educate you on the city’s past and present. Taking a boat trip to the Ébrié Lagoon is a fantastic way to see a breathtaking natural wonder and learn about the rich cultural history of the Ivory Coast.
Enjoy the food of Ivory Coast
The food of Ivory Coast is truly distinctive, with a wide variety of flavors and ingredients that can only be found there. The food in Ivory Coast is some of the best you’ll eat anywhere. Attiéké, a couscous-like food prepared from fermented cassava, is one example. Grilled fish doused in a fiery sauce is another option. Other well-liked dishes include the chicken or fish stew known as kedjenou and the fried plantain dish known as loco. Visit Korhogo’s workshops and markets to see and buy these things.
Listen to the nation’s music
Ivory Coast is a great place for music, with Zouglou being a very well-liked musical genre. This musical genre emerged in the 1990s and quickly became popular because of its upbeat tempos and memorable earworm choruses. Coupé-Décalé is another style of music that is well-liked in the Ivory Coast. This style of music is quite recent, having emerged in the early 2000s.
Reggae music’s distinctive beat and tone are also hugely popular in Ivory Coast. Live performances, radio broadcasts, and other music venues in Ivory Coast offer a wide range of musical styles. It’s an exciting way to feel the vibrant culture of Ivory Coast.
Get out and enjoy a festival
The Ivory Coast hosts many annual festivals and other celebrations that attract visitors from all over the world. The town of Man hosts one of the world’s most well-attended festivals, Fêtes des Masques. Participants in this celebration don masks and dance to live music in the streets. Yamoussoukro also hosts a fantastic celebration called Fête du Dipri.
Fun activities like dancing and eating special meals are just some of this event’s highlights that honor the agricultural sector vital to the country’s economy. Abissa Festival, another popular event, takes place in various locations across the country. The old Akan culture is celebrated with a celebration full of song and dance. Going to a festival in Ivory Coast is a great way to learn about the country’s rich history and culture.
Ivory Coast safari
The Ivory Coast is a remarkable destination for nature lovers thanks to its abundance of protected areas where visitors may observe native species in their native habitats. While Ivory Coast is less well-known for safaris than other African countries, there are still opportunities to see big games like elephants, lions, and leopards. Pygmy hippopotamuses, chimpanzees, and other endangered species make this national park unique. A safari in Ivory Coast is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for animal lovers and those who want to get closer to nature.
Ivory Coast tourism
There is a wide variety of experiences to be had in Ivory Coast, making it a unique destination. Abidjan is a vibrant and dynamic city with marketplaces and museums, perfect for those who enjoy visiting large urban centers. The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro is a breathtaking church that is rich in history and ideal for people interested in architecture.
Because of its breathtaking beaches and clear water, Grand-Bassam is an excellent location for relaxing and unwinding. And if you’re looking to try something completely different, Ivorian cuisine is delicious and packed with unusual spices and flavors. National parks like Comoé and Tai offer visitors the chance to witness elephants, chimpanzees, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitats.
What is the main religion in Ivory Coast?
People in Ivory Coast follow a wide variety of faiths. About 42% of the population identifies as Muslim, making Islam the dominant religion. At 33%, Christianity is the second most popular religion in the country. About a quarter of the population of Ivory Coast adheres to traditional African religions. Most of the population in the north adheres to Islam, while most of the population in the south is Christian. Despite the country’s religious diversity, residents of Ivory Coast tend to get along well with one another.
Is it worthwhile to go to Ivory Coast?
If you want to see the best of West African culture and nature, Ivory Coast is the place to go. You won’t have time to become bored in Ivory Coast; there’s so much to see and do. Abidjan is a great destination for city lovers, as it is a vibrant metropolis with numerous shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Traditional arts and crafts, music, and festivals attest to Ivory Coast’s illustrious cultural history.
Is Ivory Coast a rich or poor country?
Ivory Coast is a country with a lower middle income, the country has a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita of roughly $2,400. Although the country has seen significant economic growth in recent years, poverty is still a major issue, with around 40% of the population living below the poverty line. However, Ivory Coast’s diverse economy includes a thriving agricultural sector, one of the largest in West Africa.
The country is a notable producer of cocoa, coffee, and palm oil, making up a significant amount of the country’s exports. In addition, the country’s tourist industry is developing, and numerous magnificent beaches, national parks, and cultural attractions attract visitors from around the world.
Hotels in Ivory Coast
Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire
This five-star hotel is situated in the heart of Abidjan and provides guests with breathtaking panoramas of the metropolis and the Ébrié Lagoon. The hotel provides its visitors with many different amenities, including a spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and dining and drinking places. The rooms are beautifully appointed in a modern design and are equipped with all of today’s most convenient amenities.
Hotel Tiama
This recently remodeled hotel, which can be found in Abidjan’s trendy Cocody neighborhood, caters to the requirements of both business travelers and vacationers with a wide variety of amenities and services. The hotel’s rooftop features a number of bars and restaurants, as well as a swimming pool, for guests’ convenience. The rooms are well-decorated, large, and equipped with today’s most convenient amenities.
Conclusion
There are many fun activities and sights to see in Ivory Coast. Cities like Abidjan and Cocody have thriving markets, tasty restaurants, and exciting nightlife. If you’d rather unwind, visit Grand-Bassam’s gorgeous beaches or enjoy a boat trip to the Ébrié Lagoon. You may also see incredible wildlife in the country by visiting one of its national parks, such as Comoé or Tai. Don’t leave Ivory Coast without trying local delicacies and taking in a festival or two.
FAQs
What is the currency of Ivory Coast?
The West African CFA franc is the official currency of Ivory Coast.
Do I need a visa to visit Ivory Coast?
Different nationalities have different visa requirements. Don’t hesitate to contact the nearest Ivorian Embassy or Consulate for up-to-date information on visa requirements.
Is Ivory Coast safe for tourists?
Security used to be a major problem in Ivory Coast, but things have become much better recently. Travelers should be wary of their surroundings and cautious, particularly at night and in crowded areas.
What languages are spoken in Ivory Coast?
French is the country’s official language, but several indigenous languages are also in use.
