The Basics
Country: Ivory Coast
Where is it?: Cote d’Ivoire sits in western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean between Ghana and Liberia
Why do people go here?: Another west Africa country that offers huge potential but isn’t safe because of a 1999 military coup, which has resulted in fighting. Cote d’Ivoire is said to be one of the best West Africa countries for festivals and culture.
What are the main entry points?: One of the easiest routes is from Accra, Ghana to the east. There are also regular flights from Europe and surrounding countries.
Currency used: West African Franc
Country Code for Phones: 225
Area codes for Major Cities: No area codes required
Religion: Muslim 38.6%, Christian 32.8%, Indigenous 11.9%,16.7% no religious beliefs
Population: 21 million
Ethnic Breakdown Baule 23%, Bete 18%, Senoufou 15%, Malinke 11%, other African
Government: R epublic
Languages: French, Dioula
Travel Information
Major Cities: Abidjan
Attractions: Man Region, Parc National de Taï
Accommodation: Cote d’Ivoire Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Tourisme Cote D’Ivoire 2424 Massachusetts Ave, N.W. Washington, DC 20008, 202-797-0352
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Parc National de la Comoë
Health Issues: Malaria
Tips for Visiting
When to go: There is consistent rain almost year around. The driests month are November through February
Common Phrases: Hello = Bonjour, How are you? = Comment allez-vous?, Good = Bien or Bon, Yes = Oui, Okay = D’accord or OK, No = Non, Thank you = Merci, Please = S’il vous plaît, Goodbye = Au revoir
Specific Events/Holidays: Independence: August 7, Fete de la Paix: November 15, National Day: December 7, Variable Islamic Holidays
Getting Around: Bus and taxis service most major roads.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airports to fly into Ivory Coast are the Abidjan Airport and Yamoussoukro Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Ivory Coast travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
