Day 1: Arrive in Abidjan
Start your trip in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire’s largest city. Known as the “Paris of West Africa,” Abidjan offers a vibrant mix of French influence and Ivorian culture.
After arriving and settling in, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s an architectural landmark with a unique modern design. Take a quick trip to the Plateau district afterward, which has lots of shops and restaurants.
For dinner, try the local dish “attieke” (cassava couscous) with grilled fish. Afterward, take a walk along the Ebrié Lagoon to enjoy the city’s nightlife.
Day 2: Explore Abidjan
Banco National Park
Start your day by visiting Banco National Park, a massive urban rainforest. It’s perfect for hiking and getting a break from the city’s hustle. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you explore the trails.
Visit the Cocody District
In the afternoon, head to the Cocody district. Visit the National Museum of Abidjan for a deep dive into Ivorian history and art. Cocody gives you a quieter side of the city, with charming cafes and markets to browse through.
Nightlife in Treichville
As the sun sets, check out the Treichville neighborhood, known for its energetic nightlife and local food spots. Grab dinner at one of the open-air “maquis” (street restaurants) and listen to some live music.
Day 3: Abidjan to Grand-Bassam
Take a short one-hour trip to Grand-Bassam, the country’s former capital. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its colonial architecture and long sandy beaches. Visit the old post office and governor’s palace to see some of the best-preserved buildings.
Stroll through the Quartier France and pause at the Costume Museum to learn more about the traditional attire of Côte d’Ivoire’s different ethnic groups. Then, spend your afternoon on the beach, dipping into the ocean or relaxing at a beachfront café.
Day 4: Grand-Bassam to Yamoussoukro
In the morning, head to Yamoussoukro, the country’s capital since 1983. It’s a four-hour drive from Grand-Bassam, so leave early to make the most of your day. Yamoussoukro is much calmer than Abidjan, but it’s home to some unique attractions.
Our Lady of Peace Basilica
Your first stop should be the incredible Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. It’s one of the largest churches in the world and offers guided tours to explore its remarkable architecture.
Presidential Palace and Crocodiles
End your day with a visit to the Presidential Palace. While you can’t go inside, the palace grounds include a large lake where you’ll find sacred crocodiles. It’s an odd but interesting sight, and a palace staff member feeds them daily.
Day 5: Explore Yamoussoukro and Surroundings
If you’re interested in nature, spend your morning visiting the Kossou Dam, located about an hour from Yamoussoukro. You’ll get peaceful views of Lake Kossou and the chance for some bird watching.
In the afternoon, explore some of Yamoussoukro’s quieter streets. You can take a relaxed walk through local markets to see artisanal goods such as pottery, textiles, and woodwork. Don’t forget to try “alloco,” a popular street snack made from fried plantains.
Day 6: Yamoussoukro to Man
Head west to Man, a town nestled between lush hills and waterfalls. It’s about a five-hour drive, so enjoy the scenic countryside along the way.
Mount Tonkoui Hike
In the afternoon, hike up Mount Tonkoui, the second-highest mountain in Côte d’Ivoire. The trail isn’t too difficult and offers amazing views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure to bring water and pace yourself.
Visit La Cascade Waterfall
After your hike, relax at La Cascade waterfall. You can swim in the cool water or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Day 7: Explore Man
Traditional Dance Performance
Man is known for its cultural traditions. Check out a traditional Dan mask dance in the morning if possible. These lively performances are an important part of local customs.
Monkey Forest
If you want to see some wildlife, visit the nearby Monkey Forest. You can spot the sacred monkeys that live here and learn more about local beliefs surrounding their importance.
After exploring, head back to town for one last Ivorian meal. Try “kedjenou,” which is a delicious chicken stew cooked slowly in a clay pot.
Wrap-Up
This itinerary gives you a chance to explore Côte d’Ivoire’s rich culture, nature, and history. It’s busy, but not too rushed, allowing time for wandering and soaking in all the sights and sounds. You’ll leave this West African gem with lots of stories to tell and memories to last.
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