Discover the best of Côte d'Ivoire with our expertly crafted week-long journey through vibrant cities, pristine beaches, cultural treasures, and natural wonders. From the bustling streets of Abidjan to the historic charm of Grand-Bassam.
Your week-long journey through the heart of West Africa
This carefully planned itinerary takes you through Ivory Coast's most captivating destinations, balancing urban exploration with natural beauty, cultural immersion with relaxation. You'll experience the economic powerhouse of Abidjan, the political capital of Yamoussoukro, the historic charm of Grand-Bassam, and the natural wonders of Taï National Park.
Welcome to the economic capital of West Africa
Your Ivory Coast adventure begins at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport, the gateway to this vibrant nation. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you'll immediately sense the energy and warmth that characterizes Ivorian hospitality.
Airport to Hotel Transfer: Take a pre-arranged taxi or ride-sharing service to your accommodation in the Plateau district, Abidjan's central business area. The 30-minute journey offers your first glimpse of the city's impressive skyline, with modern skyscrapers rising against the backdrop of the Ébrié Lagoon.
Hotel Check-in & Orientation: Settle into your hotel and take a moment to appreciate the view. Many hotels in Plateau offer stunning vistas of the lagoon and the bustling port activities. Use this time to review your itinerary and perhaps enjoy a welcome drink while acclimatizing to the tropical climate.
Plateau District Exploration: Begin your urban adventure with a walking tour of Plateau, the heart of Abidjan's business district. Marvel at the architectural blend of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. Visit the iconic Pyramid Building, a symbol of Abidjan's economic prowess, and explore the bustling streets filled with vendors, businesspeople, and the constant hum of urban life.
St. Paul's Cathedral: Stop by this architectural masterpiece, designed by Italian architect Aldo Spirito. The cathedral's unique modern design, featuring a sweeping concrete arch, represents the fusion of contemporary architecture with spiritual significance. Take time to appreciate both the exterior's bold lines and the serene interior.
Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Experience your first taste of Ivorian cuisine at a traditional restaurant. Try "attieké" (cassava couscous) with grilled fish, a staple dish that perfectly introduces you to local flavors. The meal provides an excellent opportunity to interact with locals and practice basic French phrases.
Immigration, customs, taxi to hotel
Settle in, orientation, welcome drink
Business district, Pyramid Building
Architecture tour, photography
Traditional Ivorian cuisine
Hotel relaxation, early sleep
Evening (6:00 PM - 10:00 PM): After your first day of exploration, return to your hotel for some well-deserved rest. Consider dining at the hotel restaurant or venture to a nearby café for a light dinner. Abidjan's evening atmosphere is magical, with the city lights reflecting off the lagoon waters. Take a moment to plan tomorrow's adventure to Grand-Bassam while enjoying the cool evening breeze from your hotel balcony.
UNESCO World Heritage site and pristine Atlantic coastline
Departure from Abidjan: After an early breakfast at your hotel, embark on the scenic 45-kilometer journey to Grand-Bassam, Ivory Coast's former colonial capital. The drive along the coastal road offers glimpses of lagoons, fishing villages, and the gradually changing landscape from urban to coastal.
Arrival in Grand-Bassam: Upon arrival, you'll immediately notice the town's unique character. Grand-Bassam feels like stepping back in time, with its colonial architecture, tree-lined streets, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. The town served as the capital of French colonial Ivory Coast from 1893 to 1900, and this rich history is evident in every corner.
Colonial Quarter Walking Tour: Begin your exploration in the historic colonial quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2012. Walk along the palm-lined streets and admire the well-preserved colonial buildings, each telling a story of the French colonial period. The architecture represents a unique blend of European colonial style adapted to the tropical climate.
National Museum of Costume: Visit this fascinating museum housed in a beautiful colonial building. The museum showcases traditional Ivorian clothing, masks, and artifacts from various ethnic groups across the country. The exhibits provide excellent insight into the rich cultural diversity of Ivory Coast, with detailed explanations of the significance of different traditional garments and ceremonial items.
Lighthouse and Wharf Area: Explore the old lighthouse area and the remnants of the colonial wharf. These structures serve as reminders of Grand-Bassam's importance as a major port during the colonial era. The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the town's layout, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Your remaining adventure through Ivory Coast
Political Capital Discovery
Experience the grandeur of the world's largest basilica and explore the planned capital city.
UNESCO Rainforest Adventure
Immerse yourself in one of West Africa's last remaining primary rainforests.
Coastal Port City
Discover Ivory Coast's second-largest port and enjoy coastal relaxation.
Mountain Adventures
Explore the mountainous western region with its natural beauty and cultural richness.
Final Exploration & Departure
Complete your journey with final city exploration and memorable farewell experiences.
Essential Advice
Stay prepared with these essential travel considerations for a smooth journey.
Everything you need to know for a successful trip
Begin your journey with a simple eVisa application