[Africa Travel] Cote d’Ivoire: Abidjan

Abidjan, the largest city of Côte d’Ivoire, was once the capital. Abidjan is the most developed economy in Côte d’Ivoire and is recognized as one of Africa’s largest megacities. Abidjan is the political and economic center of Côte d’Ivoire, and as well as having a well-developed infrastructure, it is also developing as a tourist destination. Therefore, there are several tourist attractions.

place

Abidjan is a city located in the southern part of Ivory Coast.

history

Abidjan was founded in 1893 when French Côte d’Ivoire was established. The French expelled the indigenous people and built a railroad, etc., making it a very accessible city. Abidjan became the capital in 1934, and in 1950 the canal was built and the port opened. In March 1983, the country’s capital was moved to Yamoussoukro inland, but Abidjan is still the largest city in Côte d’Ivoire.

climate

Abidjan belongs to the savannah climate. Temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C throughout the year.

language

Official language is French. Other indigenous languages are also spoken, such as Jura, Baule, and Yakuba.

security

Security in Abidjan has improved in recent years, but there are still dangerous areas. Ajame, Abobo, Yopougon, etc. are home to many low-income residents and have a high crime rate, so be careful.

industry

As Abidjan is a port city, trade is very active. The mining industry is also thriving, as are the automobile and textile industries.

Race

Côte d’Ivoire is a multi-ethnic country with over 50 tribes. As a result, it is made up of many ethnic groups.

religion

Muslims make up 40% of the population in Côte d’Ivoire. In addition, about 30% are Christians.

currency

CFA francs are used.

Sightseeing Spot 1 : Cathédrale Saint-Paul

Abidjan’s symbolic cathedral built in 1985. The church is painted white and has a uniquely shaped blue roof.

Sightseeing Spot 2 : La Grande Mosquée du Plateau

Only Muslims can enter the Grand Mosque of Abidjan. The tower that pierces the sky is very impressive, and there are a lot of tourists taking pictures.

Sightseeing Spot 3 : PlaYce-Marcory

The largest shopping mall in Abidjan. There is also a large food court with famous fast food restaurants. Goods are relatively cheap.

Sightseeing Spot 4 : Parc national du Banco

National park in Abidjan. Also known as the oasis of Abidjan, it is a very natural area with many kinds of trees. It is a place where the nature of Cote d’Ivoire spreads.

Sightseeing Spot 5 : Jardin botanique de Bingerville

It is a famous botanical garden in Ivory Coast. However, there are not many flowers, and if anything, there are many grasses and trees. Many families come here to have a picnic.

Sightseeing Spot 6 : Musée des Civilisations de Côte d’Ivoire

Museum in Abidjan. This small museum has a large collection of African objects, many of which are rare.

Hotel

Abidjan has a wide range of accommodation options. The nearest airport is Félix Houphouet-Boigny International Airport. You can book flights and accommodation from the link below. Other languages are also supported.