Things To Do
in Cocody
Cocody is a chic, waterfront suburb of Abidjan perched along the Ebrié Lagoon. It blends leafy avenues, embassies, and upscale hotels with vibrant markets and cafés. The neighborhood is known for its cosmopolitan vibe and easy access to the coast, offering a mix of residential calm and urban energy.
Visitors can expect warm Ivorians, modern amenities, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy cuisine, culture, and lagoon views.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful St. Paul’s Cathedral, where you can admire its stunning architecture and vibrant stained glass windows. Afterward, stroll through the lively streets of Cocody, soaking in the local atmosphere and stopping by a nearby café for a traditional Ivorian breakfast of attiéké and grilled fish. Engage with local vendors at the market, where you can find colorful fabrics and handmade crafts.
In the afternoon, head over to the National Museum of Abidjan, located nearby, to delve into Ivorian art and history. Spend time exploring the museum's diverse collections that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Côte d’Ivoire. Wrap up your visit with a leisurely walk around the lush botanical gardens that surround the museum, enjoying the tranquility of nature.
As the sun sets, make your way to the vibrant Plateau district for dinner at a popular local restaurant. Savor traditional dishes like foutou and sauce arachide, accompanied by refreshing palm wine. After dinner, explore the lively nightlife scene, perhaps catching a performance of live music that showcases the rhythms of Ivorian culture.
Spend your morning visiting the vibrant local art galleries scattered throughout Cocody, where you can meet local artists and learn about their creative processes. Engage in conversations about their inspirations and the significance of their works in Ivorian culture. Don’t forget to pick up a unique piece of art as a memento of your journey.
After lunch, participate in a workshop at a local craft center, where you can try your hand at traditional Ivorian crafts such as weaving or pottery. This hands-on experience will give you a greater appreciation for the skills and artistry involved in these crafts. Enjoy the company of fellow travelers and locals as you create your own unique piece to take home.
In the evening, head to a nearby cultural center that often hosts performances and exhibitions showcasing Ivorian music and dance. Join the locals in celebrating their heritage as you watch a traditional dance performance filled with vibrant costumes and rhythmic beats. After the show, indulge in a late dinner at a nearby outdoor eatery, enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧭One-way local transport | $0.65-2 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🛍️Groceries (basic weekly) | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and a cosmopolitan vibe
- Excellent seafood and coastal cuisine
- Close to beaches, lagoons, and nature escapes
- Good infrastructure in Cocody with embassies and services
- Heavy traffic and long commutes during peak hours
- Hot and humid climate with two rainy seasons
- Variable public transport outside central Abidjan
- Higher costs in Cocody compared with other neighborhoods
- "Bonjour" - Hello/Good morning
- "Bon après-midi" - Good afternoon
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est le marché ?" - Where is the market?
- "Je voudrais l'addition" - I would like the bill
Places to Visit in Cocody
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture sunrise or sunset over the Ebrié Lagoon from viewing points along the Cocody coastline; reflections and boats add depth to shots.
Photograph shaded streets and architecture that blend modernity with classic styles, especially near embassy corridors and residential zones.
Water, sky, and palm silhouettes create vibrant silhouettes and golden-hour lighting ideal for landscape and lifestyle photography.
Food in Cocody
Cocody Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded cassava couscous served with spicy tomato sauce and grilled fish; a staple coastal dish found in markets and eateries.
Must-Try!
Fried plantains served with a piquant pepper sauce and often accompanied by fish or sauce tomate.
Slow-braised chicken or guinea hen with vegetables, typically cooked in banana leaves and served with yams or plantains.
A popular Abidjan street-food combo of garlicky attiéké with fried fish or tuna, onions, and hot sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can sample fresh produce, street snacks, and ready-to-eat dishes; great for tasting authentic flavors and bargaining for souvenirs.
Bustling market offering seafood, produce, and street eats; ideal for trying diverse Ivorian flavors and observing daily life.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a polite greeting such as 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir'; handshakes are common in social and business settings.
Dress modestly in public spaces and religious sites; avoid loud behavior and public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Show respect in interactions with elders and authorities; use polite language and avoid confrontational gestures.
Safety
Tipping in Cocody
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a service charge may be included; if not, leaving 5–10% for good service is common. Small tips for porters or guides are appreciated.
Cash (XOF) is widely accepted; many places also accept bank cards in urban areas. Mobile money (where available) and some merchants may support digital payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright, sunny days with lower humidity; great for outdoor activities, market visits, and lagoon photography. Occasional harmattan winds can dry the air and dust visibility.
Heavy but typically short tropical downpours in the afternoons; lush scenery and vibrant greens, but plan for indoor alternates during rain.
Transition periods with variable weather; warm days and periodic showers; good compromise for outdoor plans with flexible timing.
Cocody at Night
Hiking in Cocody
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected rainforest with guided trails and abundant biodiversity; a short drive from central Abidjan for a nature escape.
Airports
How to reach Cocody by plane.
Main international airport serving Abidjan; ~20–25 km to central Cocody; taxis and ride-hailing available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant population includes Akan (Baoulé), Kru, Northern groups (Dioula), and many others.
A mix of professionals, diplomats, and international residents, particularly in Cocody and around the lagoon.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local leagues and matches across Abidjan.
Widely played in schools and clubs; public courts in many neighborhoods.
Track and field events and community runs are common.
Several clubs and courts around Abidjan.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cocody.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many eateries; look for bean stews, plantains, yams, and vegetable-based sauces. Ask for dishes without meat or fish and request oil-light preparations when possible.