Country guides
Africa
Things to do in Ivory Coast
The Ivory Coast offers a range of interesting attractions. Just outside Abidjan lies Parc du Banco, a tropical rainforest reserve accessible via walking trails and guided visits, featuring rare hardwood trees, wildlife such as monkeys and birds, and vital water sources. In central Abidjan, St Paul's Cathedral, designed by Italian architect, Aldo Spirito, and consecrated in the 1980s, is a visually impressive modern landmark. The Hôtel Ivoire remains the city's iconic luxury hotel.
Upcountry in Yamoussoukro, visitors will see sprawling multi-lane boulevards that feel oversized for its small downtown. The main draw is the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, modelled after St Peter's Basilica and known for its grand scale. In the western highlands around Man, markets specialising in Dan fabrics and masks, scenic waterfalls, a monkey forest, and the La Dent de Man rock formation attract nature and cultural tourism.
Saint Paul's Cathedral
Designed by Italian architect Aldo Spirito, St Paul's Cathedral in Abidjan was completed in 1985 and was consecrated by Pope John Paul II during his second visit to Côte d'Ivoire.…
Saint Paul's Cathedral
Designed by Italian architect Aldo Spirito, St Paul's Cathedral in Abidjan was completed in 1985 and was consecrated by Pope John Paul II during his second visit to Côte d'Ivoire. The cathedral is known for its striking modern design and its distinctive tower, which has been interpreted as a stylised human form or cross rising above the nave, offering panoramic views over Abidjan and the Bay of Cocody.
At the time of its opening, it was widely considered one of the largest church buildings in Africa. The interior features expansive stained-glass panels, mosaics, and painted artwork that depict biblical themes and elements of Ivorian culture, creating a vivid and spiritual atmosphere.
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is the crown jewel of Yamoussoukro and one of the most impressive churches in the world. Inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, it stan…
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is the crown jewel of Yamoussoukro and one of the most impressive churches in the world. Inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, it stands out for its massive size and stunning architecture. The basilica's dome is slightly lower than St. Peter's, but its overall height is greater thanks to a towering cross on top. Inside, it can seat about 7,000 people, with room for thousands more standing. Visitors come to admire its grandeur, intricate design and the peaceful atmosphere it offers.
Yamoussoukro itself is the official capital of Ivory Coast, located about 150 miles (240km) from Abidjan. The city is known for its wide, well-paved streets and boulevards, built with hopes of becoming a bustling metropolis. However, many areas feel surprisingly quiet and empty compared to other capitals. Still, the basilica alone makes Yamoussoukro a must-visit destination.
Man
Man is a small town in the western part of Ivory Coast, located within the Dix-Huit Montagnes (Eighteen Mountains) Region. It's famous for its vibrant markets where visitors can bu…
Man
Man is a small town in the western part of Ivory Coast, located within the Dix-Huit Montagnes (Eighteen Mountains) Region. It's famous for its vibrant markets where visitors can buy the renowned Yacouba (Dan) masks and beautiful traditional fabrics crafted by local artisans.
Nestled among mountains, Man is near Mount Tonkoui and Mount Toura, the two highest peaks in the country. Mount Tonkoui rises to about 3,900 feet (1,190m) and offers a rewarding challenge for hikers and climbers. Another iconic natural landmark is La Dent de Man, a distinctive granite peak popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
The area is also known for its natural beauty, including several rivers and waterfalls. One favourite spot is La Cascade, a picturesque waterfall set in a bamboo forest just outside the town, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
Tai National Park
The Parc National de Tai (Tai National Park) is undoubtedly the most staggering natural attraction the Ivory Coast has to offer. One of the last remaining areas of virgin rainfores…
Tai National Park
The Parc National de Tai (Tai National Park) is undoubtedly the most staggering natural attraction the Ivory Coast has to offer. One of the last remaining areas of virgin rainforest in the whole of Africa, the Park was inscribed in UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites as far back as 1982. The spectacular primary forest is filled with trees that reach up to 150 feet (46m), blocking out the sunlight, and allowing for a dark, dank, and dense undergrowth to flourish. The park is also home to no less than five species of mammal included on the 'red list' of endangered animals: pygmy hippopotamuses, Olive Colobus monkeys, leopards, chimpanzees and Jentink's Duikers.