Things To Do
in Abidjan
Abidjan is the economic capital of Côte d’Ivoire, located along the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa. With its skyscrapers and bustling markets, Abidjan is a vibrant and dynamic city known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is a melting pot of different ethnicities and languages, creating a diverse and multicultural atmosphere. From its impressive St.
Paul's Cathedral to the lively Cocody neighborhood, Abidjan offers a mix of modernity and traditional charm.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "À bientôt" - See you soon
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to St. Paul's Cathedral, marveling at its unique architecture. A stroll around the surrounding area provides insights into local life.
Head to the bustling Treichville Market for a taste of local cuisine and vibrant culture. Try some delicious Ivorian street food while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Relax at the beachfront of Cocody while enjoying a beautiful sunset. Dine at a seaside restaurant and savor fresh seafood specialties.
Visit the National Museum of Abidjan to learn about the rich history and culture of Côte d’Ivoire. The exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the nation’s heritage.
Take a walk through the lively Plateau district, exploring its shops and galleries. Visit the iconic Banco National Park for a dose of nature and tranquility.
Enjoy dinner at one of Abidjan's traditional restaurants. Treat yourself to local dishes like attiéké and fish, followed by a stroll along the vibrant nightlife.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant cultural scene with diverse traditions and festivals.
- Economic hub of West Africa with growing job opportunities.
- Mild tropical climate conducive to year-round activities.
- Beautiful beaches along the Atlantic coast.
- Rich culinary offerings with a variety of local and international cuisine.
- Traffic congestion can be a major issue in urban areas.
- Challenges with infrastructure and public services.
- High levels of crime in certain neighborhoods.
- Health concerns due to tropical diseases.
- Political instability and occasional unrest in the region.
Best Activities in Abidjan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of this urban park, known for its walking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
Enjoy the sun, sand, and water sports at this popular beach destination located outside of Abidjan.
Take a walk through the historic Plateau district, home to colonial-era architecture, markets, and lively street scenes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Abidjan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Abidjan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Abidjan and the surrounding area, along with opportunities for wildlife and nature photography.
Known for its unique architecture and provides a stunning vantage point for capturing the cityscape of Abidjan.
The central business district with modern skyscrapers and a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for cityscape photography.
Food in Abidjan
Abidjan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried plantains typically served with chili pepper and onions, found at street food stalls and local eateries such as Maquis.
Must-Try!
Fermented cassava couscous often paired with grilled fish or chicken, commonly available at small restaurants and beachside food shacks.
A staple dish made from mashed starchy foods (plantains, cassava, yams) served with flavorful sauces, widely offered at traditional Ivorian restaurants like Chez Dozon.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Abidjan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and most bustling markets in Abidjan offering a plethora of fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls selling everything from grilled meat to local snacks.
A vibrant district known for its plethora of open-air maquis which serve authentic Ivorian dishes and street food delicacies, presenting an excellent opportunity to savor local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Abidjan, it is important to greet people with enthusiasm and respect. Handshakes are common, and it's customary to use titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when addressing someone, especially in formal settings.
It is important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. In urban areas, people often dress in a modern and stylish manner, but it's still important to be respectful and not show too much skin.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Ivorian culture. It is important to address older individuals with respect and deference, and to acknowledge their wisdom and experience.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Abidjan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Abidjan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. However, it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for exceptional service. A service charge may be included in the bill at some establishments.
In Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, cash is widely used for transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Mobile money solutions are increasingly popular for payments and transfers.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Abidjan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Abidjan. Dry season with pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the city and its attractions.
Rainy season. Expect higher humidity and occasional heavy rain showers. This period is great for experiencing the lush greenery and natural beauty of the region.
Abidjan at Night
Hiking in Abidjan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this national park offers a variety of hiking trails through lush rainforest and diverse wildlife. It's known for its rich biodiversity, including various primate species.
Located near the coast, Parc des Loangos features trails that wind through forest and along beaches, allowing for unique hiking experiences that combine nature and stunning ocean views.
Although a bit further from Abidjan, Mont Nimba is a majestic range with challenging hiking routes. The area is known for its scenic beauty and rich flora and fauna, providing hikers with breathtaking views.
Just a short drive from Abidjan, Bingerville Forest offers several easy hiking trails suitable for families and nature lovers. It's a great spot for birdwatching and experiencing local flora.
A peaceful area outside of Abidjan, Didiévi offers serene hiking paths among forests, rivers, and local villages, perfect for a day of exploration and cultural immersion.
Aiports
How to reach Abidjan by plane.
The main international airport serving Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. It is located 16 km east of the city center and is named after the first President of Côte d'Ivoire.
Located approximately 50 km east of Dakar, Senegal, this airport is a major hub in West Africa and serves international flights.
The main international airport in Accra, Ghana, situated about 10 km from the city center, it serves as a hub for flights within Africa and internationally.
Located in Lagos, Nigeria, this airport is one of the busiest in Africa, handling a significant volume of international flights.
Situated in Abuja, Nigeria, about 40 km from the city center, it serves as a significant airport for international and domestic travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Côte d'Ivoire, predominantly found in the southeastern and central regions, including Abidjan. They include sub-groups like Akan, Myene, and Agni.
This ethnic group mainly resides in the western regions of Côte d'Ivoire. The Krou people are known for their agricultural practices.
Comprising various groups including the Malinke and Dan, the Mandé are mainly found in the northwest and central parts of Côte d'Ivoire.
This group includes the Lobi and the Akan-speaking people and is mainly located in the northern regions, though their influence can also be felt in urban centers like Abidjan.
Abidjan is home to a large number of expatriates from various countries, including French, Lebanese, and West African immigrants, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Abidjan, with a passionate fan base and several notable clubs and a national team that competes at a high level.
Basketball has gained popularity in Abidjan, with many urban youth participating in local leagues and the national team being competitive in African tournaments.
Athletics is popular in schools and among fans, with events like running and jumping attracting considerable interest and local competitions.
Handball is widely played, especially in schools, and Côte d'Ivoire has a national handball team that competes internationally.
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively, with women's teams particularly active in the city and at national levels.
Rugby has a growing community in Abidjan, with clubs and a national team fostering interest in the sport among the youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Abidjan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Ivorian cuisine traditionally includes meat and fish, many restaurants and cafes in Abidjan now offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with options like coconut rice, plantain-based dishes, and flavorful vegetable stews.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find several eateries in Abidjan catering to gluten-free diets, often providing dishes centered around fresh seafood, grilled meats, and naturally gluten-free starches like attiéké and a wide variety of tropical fruits.