Day 1: Abidjan – The Pulse of Cote d’Ivoire
Start your trip in Abidjan, the economic capital of Cote d’Ivoire. This city is a lively blend of modern skyscrapers, beautiful lagoons, and vibrant markets. Spend the day exploring the Plateau district, the heart of the city, where you’ll find the St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s a unique piece of architecture with sweeping curves that dominate the skyline.
For lunch, dive into some local cuisine by visiting a maquis (Ivory Coast’s local bistros). Try dishes like attiéké (cassava semolina) with grilled fish or aloco (fried plantains). Afterward, head to the National Museum to get a glimpse of the country’s rich cultural heritage, including masks, ancient carvings, and traditional attire.
In the evening, check out the nightlife in the Cocody or Marcory neighborhoods. Bars and live music venues here offer a fun way to spend the night.
Day 2: Abidjan – A Day Outdoors
On your second day, take a short boat ride to Île Boulay. This calm island is just off Abidjan’s coast and offers a great escape from the city’s bustling streets. You can enjoy some relaxing time on the beach or rent a bicycle to explore the island. It’s peaceful, and there aren’t many tourists, making it feel like an authentic getaway.
After an easy afternoon, return to Abidjan and visit the Banco National Park. This tropical forest park is perfect for a hike, offering greenery and wildlife not far from the city center. Look out for monkeys and exotic bird species as you walk through the trails.
Enjoy a quiet dinner back in Abidjan at a cozy restaurant like La Taverne Romaine, famous for its Italian-Ivorian fusion cuisine.
Day 3: Grand-Bassam – Colonial Charm
Leave Abidjan and head to Grand-Bassam, which is just a 45-minute drive away. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the perfect spot to slow down and take in some history.
Spend your morning exploring the old French colonial buildings and walk through its quiet, sandy streets. Visit the National Costume Museum to see beautiful traditional clothing and regalia from various Ivorian ethnic groups. Don’t miss the old governor’s palace, which now houses a museum detailing the history of the town and its time as the country’s first capital.
In the afternoon, head to the beach. Grand-Bassam is known for its tranquil beaches, and you can easily spend a couple of hours by the ocean here. Grab a fresh coconut from a beach vendor and savor the moment.
Day 4: Yamoussoukro – The Political Capital
Next up is Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Cote d’Ivoire, which is a 3-4 hour drive from Grand-Bassam. This city is famous for its mix of grand and odd attractions.
The most striking landmark here is the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. It’s modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and is the largest Christian building in the world. Dedicate some time to exploring both the interior and exterior, as the grandeur is breathtaking.
If you’re interested, you can also visit the Presidential Palace. While you can’t go inside, it’s still worth seeing from the outside for its bizarre mix of styles. Make sure to catch the sight of actual crocodiles that populate the lagoon in front of the palace, especially during feeding time!
Day 5: Man – Nature and Adventure
Wrap up your trip with a visit to Man, located in the western part of the country. It’s best to hire a car for the journey since it’s a bit off the usual tourist trail, but it’s worth the few hours’ drive. Here, nature is the main attraction.
Start your day by hiking up to La Dent de Man, a sharp peak that offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a moderate hike with rewarding scenery at the top.
After your hike, explore the nearby waterfalls of Les Cascades. They’re considered one of the most beautiful natural spots in Cote d’Ivoire. Spend your afternoon swimming or relaxing by the water.
If you have time before departing, stop by one of the villages around Man to see handicrafts and meet the local Dan people, known for their traditional mask dances.
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