You wish to discover a country rich in colors and emotions? Côte d’Ivoire is a destination whose cultural richness will overwhelm you and transport you into another world! Imagine the scents of a new city, the tropical heat that invades you or a magnificent crowd bath in a dialect that is unknown to you.

Thousands of unmissable moments await you in the heart of this African state bordering the Atlantic Ocean. In this article, I reveal 10 wonderful reasons to visit Côte d’Ivoire. Pack your bags and formalities to visit Côte d’Ivoire and have a great vacation!

tips to visit ivory coast

© Can Stock Photo / FellowNeko

1. Exceptional landscapes

Due to its geographical situation, Côte d’Ivoire has an exceptional landscape.

On the whole northern region of the country, from Odienné to Korhogo, the wild savannah imposes itself. You will find dry and arid lands on which mango trees and teak trees extend as far as the eye can see. In the central region, from Bouaké to Yamoussoukro, the vegetation is much more lush and tropicalized.

Coffee and coconut plantations line the roads. But above all, it is thanks to these traditional plants that Côte d’Ivoire is the leading exporter of these two exceptional commodities. Finally, the southern part to the coast is delicately hilly, which allows you to follow the coast between the Atlantic Ocean and the pineapple crops and banana fields.

2. A dream tropical climate

In Côte d’Ivoire, the climate is tropical, which means that, whatever the season you decide to go there, the temperature always varies between 25 and 35°.

However, I advise you to book your stay in Côte d’Ivoire rather during the dry season, that is to say from mid-July to September, during which the temperatures remain very pleasant. As for the rest of the year, the rainy season starts from September to April.

3. The warm welcome of the population

It is in the ancestral and legendary culture of the Ivory Coast that the population is extremely welcoming and warm! Indeed, as soon as you arrive at the airport, you will notice a natural gentleness and nonchalance that already sets the pace of your vacation!

Also, throughout your stay, you will meet people who are extremely curious to discover you. Whether it is in the street, at the market, and in all the places where you will go, people will spontaneously approach you. Either out of curiosity, or simply to offer you a service: show you the way, point you to a particular store, advise you on places to visit, etc. And all this in a light and smiling atmosphere!

4. Côte d’Ivoire: a cultural mosaic

In Côte d’Ivoire, there are nearly 60 different ethnic groups, divided into four groups according to linguistic criteria: the Mandé (northwest), the Krou (southwest), the Gour (northeast) and the Akan (southeast).

Thus, if you plan a trip throughout Côte d’Ivoire, you will have the opportunity to discover the characteristics of each ethnic group in the country. What I advise you, for a complete immersion in the Ivorian culture, is to call upon a tourist guide. In this way, you will have the opportunity to really discover the specificities of each group of populations and to dive into the deep history of the Ivory Coast.

5. Many types of tourist stays

There are many things to do in Côte d’Ivoire! So, if you plan a 15 days stay for example, you have plenty of time to do several activities. From balneotherapy, safari in the natural reserves or in the savannah, visit museums, or even do gastronomic tourism! I recommend that you contact the tourist office of your destination city to organize your stay in the best conditions.

6. Sports tourism in Côte d’Ivoire

Do you like sports? And even more so in a tropical and exotic setting? In this case, I will give you some tips to spend a good sports vacation in Côte d’Ivoire.

Lovers of surfing, water skiing or bodyboarding will find their happiness on the lagoon spots of the southern coast of Côte d’Ivoire. Take advantage of this opportunity to meet local fishermen and, why not, try your hand at the local fishing technique! As for ecotourism lovers, you can survey the natural sites and mangroves by mountain bike or on horseback!

7. The colorful and fragrant Ivorian gastronomy

Garba, attiéké, placali, kedjenou, alloco … Do these names of dishes inspire you? I must confess that when I read these words, the first ideas that emanate are the spicy perfumes and the sunny colors of a beautiful generous plate!

To your appetites then! In the restaurants of the big Ivorian cities, a multitude of local dishes are served. Depending on the region where you are staying, the chefs take pleasure in making you taste all these delicacies. Take advantage of the markets to discover new fruits, vegetables or condiments. And if you have the opportunity to visit remote villages, sharpen your culinary curiosity!

8. The serenity of the Ivorian atmosphere

The first impression that overwhelms tourists upon arrival in Abidjan is the serenity of the population. Ivorians are naturally pacifists, smiling and always in a good mood! Moreover, this positive mood is particularly communicative!

But also, the days spent in Côte d’Ivoire are rocked by a very precise rhythm. From the soft dawn with orange sky to the calm and peaceful dusk. In between, the days are rather serene. At noon, and until mid-afternoon, it is customary to take a little nap in the shade of the palm trees.

So, you go to Côte d’Ivoire in the expectation of spending a languid and pleasant vacation!

9. The Ivory Coast: an artistic treasure

African art in general is marked by very symbolic characters. Whether in open-air markets or in museums, you will discover mythical representations in Côte d’Ivoire.

It is the case, for example, of the statues of kings, queens, gods or other divine characters. But always in the spirit of keeping the link with the history of the country. In addition, you can visit in Abidjan the Craft Center of the City of Abidjan (CAVA), the museum of African art not to be missed!

10. French as the official language

It is true that the essence of traveling to a foreign country is to be fully immersed in its culture. Nevertheless, I must admit that if you decide to go to an African country such as the Ivory Coast, you will appreciate being able to communicate easily with the people there.

The official language of the Ivory Coast is French. This is very useful to go to the market, to find your way around, or simply to meet people!

If you like completely different adventures, then do not hesitate to visit the Ivory Coast. Especially since in only a few hours of flight, you will discover a country rich in culture, colors and smiles! And above all, when you return, the memories of all the breathtaking landscapes will be forever marked in your memory! Don’t forget to take out travel insurance before you leave, to cover your travel or health expenses in case of problems!

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