Travel - Ivory Coast - top places to visit & other details of this mesmerizing African country

 

Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d'Ivoire, is a West African country known for its diverse culture, vibrant cities, and beautiful landscapes. Bordered by Liberia, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ghana, and with a southern coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, Ivory Coast has a mix of savannah, rainforest, and coastal ecosystems. Abidjan, the largest city and economic hub, is often referred to as the "Paris of West Africa" due to its modern skyline and cosmopolitan vibe.

### Best Spots to Visit

1. **Abidjan**

   - **Description:** The largest city and economic capital, known for its skyscrapers, lively markets, and vibrant nightlife.

   - **Highlights:** The Plateau district, St. Paul's Cathedral, Banco National Park, and the Abidjan Zoo.

2. **Yamoussoukro**

   - **Description:** The political capital, famous for its grandiose architecture.

   - **Highlights:** Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Presidential Palace, and the man-made lakes with sacred crocodiles.

3. **Grand-Bassam**

   - **Description:** A historic town and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colonial architecture and beautiful beaches.

   - **Highlights:** Colonial buildings, the National Costume Museum, and the tranquil beaches.

4. **Taï National Park**

   - **Description:** A UNESCO World Heritage site, home to one of the last primary rainforests in West Africa.

   - **Highlights:** Wildlife viewing (including pygmy hippos and chimpanzees), guided tours, and bird watching.

5. **Comoe National Park**

   - **Description:** One of the largest protected areas in West Africa, with diverse ecosystems ranging from savannah to rainforest.

   - **Highlights:** Wildlife safaris, bird watching, and exploring the rich flora and fauna.

6. **Sassandra**

   - **Description:** A coastal town known for its picturesque beaches and fishing villages.

   - **Highlights:** Relaxing on the beaches, visiting traditional fishing villages, and exploring nearby natural attractions.

7. **Man**

   - **Description:** A town surrounded by beautiful mountains and waterfalls, offering great hiking opportunities.

   - **Highlights:** La Dent de Man, Les Cascades de Man (waterfalls), and the vibrant local markets.

### Best Seasons to Visit

The best time to visit Ivory Coast is during the dry seasons. The long dry season runs from November to March, and the short dry season occurs in July and August. During these periods, the weather is more favorable for travel and outdoor activities. The rainy seasons, from April to June and September to October, can bring heavy rains and make travel more challenging.

### Best Cuisines

Ivorian cuisine is rich and diverse, reflecting the country's agricultural abundance and cultural heritage. Some must-try dishes include:

- **Attiéké:** A popular dish made from fermented cassava, similar to couscous, often served with grilled fish or meat.

- **Alloco:** Fried plantains typically served with a spicy sauce and grilled fish or chicken.

- **Kedjenou:** A slow-cooked stew made with chicken or guinea fowl, vegetables, and spices, traditionally cooked in a sealed pot.

- **Foutou:** A dough-like food made from mashed plantains or yams, often served with a variety of sauces and stews.

- **Garba:** A street food favorite made from attiéké and fried tuna, usually accompanied by spicy pepper sauce.

- **Peanut Soup:** A rich soup made with peanuts, tomatoes, and spices, often served with rice or fufu.

### Airlines Connectivity

Ivory Coast is primarily served by Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport in Abidjan. Some of the airlines providing connectivity to Ivory Coast include:

- **Air France:** Offers flights from Paris to Abidjan.

- **Brussels Airlines:** Provides connections from Brussels to Abidjan.

- **Royal Air Maroc:** Connects Abidjan with Casablanca and other destinations.

- **Turkish Airlines:** Offers flights from Istanbul to Abidjan.

- **Ethiopian Airlines:** Provides connections from Addis Ababa to Abidjan.

- **Asky Airlines:** Offers regional flights from various West African cities.

Travelers from other parts of the world can usually find convenient connecting flights through major hubs such as Paris, Brussels, Casablanca, Istanbul, and Addis Ababa.