Despite its ongoing economic and political problems, Cote d'Ivoire attracts travelers because of the country's rich history and culture. The capital, Abidjan, is called the Paris of West Africa due to a French influence that continues from Cote d'Ivoire's colonial history. There is also an abundance of restaurants, nightclubs and museums. The ultra-modern city and natives have turned the town into one of Africa's most cosmopolitan urban centers. Visitors are also charmed by the mountains around Man and the beaches of Sassandra.
Cote d'Ivoire's population consists of the Baoule, the Dan (Yacouba) and the Senoufo ethnic groups, all known for their intricate wood carvings. Approximately 34 percent of the people are Christian (primarily Protestant), 25 percet are Muslim, and 21 percent claim no religion. French is the official language, but more than 60 dialects are spoken; Dioula is the most widely used.
The country has three main climatic regions influencing the weather: the coast (greatest rainfall), the forest (high rainfall and continuous humidity) and the savannah (drier, with the highest temperatures in the country). The climate nationwide is driest December-April; long rains are common May-July.
Transportation for visitors consists of efficient and comfortable trains, including the Abidjan-Niger railway, one of the most modern in Africa. Taxis are plentiful in most cities. Roads and highways are in good condition, though driving is not always recommended for first-time visitors. Coach services operate for longer journeys, while small buses serve inter-city lines. City buses commonly experience delays. Cote d'Ivoire has no subway system.
Communications are fairly modern, with international telecommunications available in major towns. Some mobile phone carriers have roaming agreements with foreign firms; a GSM cellular network is supported. Handsets are available at some hotels in Abidjan.
Cote d'Ivoire's recent turmoil began when the military forced out the government in 1999; that coup was followed by a failed coup attempt in January 2001. Since then, political and civil instability have run high, a situation amplified by the economic hardship pervading the country. Christians and Muslims continue to battle for political supremacy and natives hold strong resentment against non-Ivorians and against the farmers in neighboring countries.
Cote d'Ivoire is fairly expensive compared to the rest of Africa.
Crime is increasing, particularly in Abidjan, where pickpocketing is common. Foreigners perceived as wealthy are especially targeted; avoid displaying jewelry, cameras, or general signs of affluence.
For a free map of Cote d'Ivoire and more detailed information, be sure to click on the Destination Brief above.
Please note: the situation in Cote d'Ivoire can be volatile and dynamic. You are encouraged to purchase an Intelligence Brief ($7.50) or Destination Tracker ($25) for complete, up-to-the-minute information on the Country, Security and Health, Local Travel Alerts, Entry/exit requirements, Transportation, Communications/Technology, Legal and Financial situation, Environmental concerns and Language in the Cote d'Ivoire.