Home to one of the most influential African songs (1erGaou – every west African knows this song), Cote d’Ivoire or Ivory Coast in English, is situated in the west of Africa. Its neighbouring countries are Burkina Faso, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia and Mali. The capital is Yamoussoukro with Abidjan is the largest city on the coast of the country and the economic capital. The currency used is the West African Franc (XOF).
Fun Fact! Cote d’Ivoire changed their name from Ivory coast in 1985 (But it still means the same thing translated in English)
If you’d like to know more interesting facts about this African country, click here.
So, lets break this country up into PARTS.
People
Over 60 native languages are spoken in this country with French being the official language as it was a former colony. The different ethnic groups making up the country’s demographic are Akan, Gur, Mande, Kru and Non-Ivorian groups.
Attractions
The Tai national park, which is a world heritage site, is a breathtakingly beautiful forest in the south west of the country. It’s home to some amazing wildlife including the pygmy hippo.
If you’re wanting to explore Abidjan make sure you take a look at Iles Ehotile National Park. The Plateau Mosque is also a sight to behold. Whether you are religious or not, there is no denying this architectural masterpiece.
Abidjan is a beautiful city with so many scenic places such as Jardin Botanique de Bingerville and Banco National Park. The Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire is also a great place to learn about the country’s history and culture. Or relax at the beach resort of Assounde. No matter your taste Abidjan would be able to cater in creating the perfect holiday for you!
Mt. Nimba a UNESECO World heritage site is a mountain surrounded by lush forestry. Why not take the challenge and climb up this mountain, i promise you the view would be more than worth it!
Rituals and Culture:
Like many Africans Ivorians love to party! Religion plays a big part of Ivorian people’s life with the largest church in the world in the capital Yamoussoukro. The majority of the population practice Islam with Catholicism being the second largest religion.
Sports are a big deal in the Ivory Coast with Football and Taekwondo being the most popular and even winning them gold in Rio 2016 Olympics.
Whilst Cote d’Ivoire is the largest exporter of cocoa in the world, this isn’t a big part of many Ivorian’s diets. Typical Ivorians Foods heavily influence by French culture with specialties like land snails and pouletbicyclette (Guinea fowl) other African dishes are Alloco (Friend plaintain with chilli and onions) and fufu (pounded and doughed cassava typically served with a stew).
Tips
– Be sure to carry your passport when going out as you may be asked to show your ID.
– Though dollars are widely accepted in the big cities, it is useful to change to your money into the local currency.
For more travel advice check out; FCO: Travel Advice
Outside of the UK: Please check your government’s travel advice carefully.