West Africa
Côte d'Ivoire
Our notebook to help you plan your trip to Côte d'Ivoire: the right season, where to stay and our ideas to make the most of it.
Abidjan that never sleeps, the beaches of Assinie, the historic town of Grand-Bassam and the huge basilica of Yamoussoukro: Côte d'Ivoire means energy, music and generous food.
Best weatherDuring the long dry season: sunshine and heat, perfect for the beach. The long rainy season is very wet.
A question?
Wéa answers about this destination: neighbourhoods, seasons, ideas.
When to go
Every season has its charm. Here's how to choose yours, depending on what you want to experience.
The long dry season
Sunshine, heat and little rain: the best time for the beach and nights out in Abidjan.
The long rainy season
Heavy, frequent showers, especially in June. Nature is very green, but go for a flexible booking.
The short dry season
Less rain and slightly cooler air: a good time for sightseeing.
The short rainy season
Some showers return before the fine weather comes back in December.
Where to stay
The right neighbourhood depends on what you're after. Here are our favourite places to stay.
Le Plateau
Abidjan's business district, with its towers on the Ébrié lagoon.
Cocody
Residential and quieter, with good restaurants and lovely hotels.
Zone 4 and Marcory
Restaurants, bars and maquis: the heart of Abidjan's nightlife.
Grand-Bassam
The former capital, its historic town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its beach, less than an hour from Abidjan.
Assinie
A strip of sand between the lagoon and the ocean, with hotels right on the water.
Our favourites
What we love there: its history, its landscapes, its flavours and its festivals. Take your time, it's all there to enjoy.
The Basilica of Yamoussoukro
Our Lady of Peace is one of the largest churches in the world. Its dome can be seen from far away.
Ideal for a first visit
Grand-Bassam
Colonial houses, crafts and a beach: the historic town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ideal for culture
The beaches of Assinie
Between lagoon and ocean, the perfect place to unwind for the weekend.
Ideal for relaxing
Banco National Park
A rainforest right inside the city of Abidjan, with walking trails.
Ideal for nature lovers
The maquis
Attiéké, alloco, grilled chicken: the maquis are the best place to taste Ivorian food.
Ideal for food lovers