Travel guide – ivory coast

ivory coast
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Overview

The independent republic of the Ivory Coast lies on the south coast of the bulge of West Africa, consisting mainly of a vast plateau (except for mountains in the northwest extremity), hemmed in by five other countries and the Atlantic Ocean. Once, it and its main cities of Abidjan and Yamoussoukro, were showpieces of the continent, politically stable and economically sound, attractive not only in the physical beauty that abounds in the country but also boasting a rich culture.

In 2002 an armed rebellion split the nation, and although a peace deal between the rebels and the Government was brokered in 2003, it has yet to be implemented. Tensions remain high and most foreign nationals have left. Ivory Coast remains blacklisted as a "no go" destination by most Western governments, with United Nations and French peacekeepers holding on to a volatile situation.

What tourists are currently denied experiencing in Ivory Coast are attractions like one of the last remaining virgin rainforests in West Africa at the Tai National Park, an unspoilt wonderland of huge trees, gurgling streams and abundant wildlife. Then there is the impressive Cascade waterfall in a bamboo forest, in the lush region around the town of Man, which hosts the intriguing annual Festival of Masks with performing stilt dancers.

The cities, too, are worthy experiences, particularly the capital, Yamoussoukro, unique in Africa and boasting a full sized replica of St Peter's in Rome, containing more stained glass than you will find in the whole of France. The stunning cathedral, and other lavish edifices in this surprising city (including an internationally-rated golf course and multi-lane highways that disappear into the jungle), was built courtesy of long-term president, Felix Houphouet-Boigny, who bestowed all these gifts on his home town.

The largest city, Abidjan, has a cosmopolitan flavour lent to it by its large French and Lebanese communities. Abidjan presents an attractive aspect, set on a lagoon and boasting high-rise buildings like the spectacular Hotel Ivoire. Abidjan has its landmark cathedral too: St Paul's was built in 1985 and consecrated by the Pope. The city has a vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere, offering a few good museums for sightseeing and a rainforest reserve called Parc du Banco for shady relaxation.

If and when Ivory Coast solves its political dilemmas it will undoubtedly once again emerge as one of the jewels of Africa, being able to utilise tourism as a means to help shrug off the debts incurred by its wasteful bureaucrats and years of unrest.

Climate

The coastal region, where temperatures stay fairly constant between 73°F to 80°F (23°C to 27°C), is dry for most of the year, experiencing an intensely wet rainy season between mid-May and mid-July. In the central forest region of the country, though, it is continually wet and humid. The hottest part of the country is the northern savannah, where temperatures can reach 90°F (32°C). The north experiences a long wet season from June to October.

Health

There are a variety of health risks prevalent in Ivory Coast, and a yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. Immigration officials will check this at the airport. Cholera is present in rural areas, malaria is widespread even in urban areas and there have been cases of Ebola in the far west. Typhoid, hepatitis A, B and C, and tuberculosis vaccinations are also recommended. HIV/AIDS is widespread and dengue fever can occur. All water should be sterilised before use, and milk, which is unpasteurised, should be boiled. Avoid dairy products and ensure meat is well cooked and eaten hot. Fruit and vegetables should be cooked and/or peeled before consumption. Medical facilities in Abidjan are of reasonable standard, but private care is expensive. Medical insurance with provision for repatriation is essential.

The basics

Time

Local time is GMT.

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Plug types in use are round pin attachment plugs or round pin plugs and receptacles with male grounding pin.

Language

The official language is French but more than 60 native dialects are spoken.

Tipping

Service charge is usually added to hotel and restaurant bills. Where it is not, a tip of 10% is acceptable.

Safety

During the week of 16 January 2006 there were violent demonstrations throughout Abidjan and the rest of the country and the situation remains unpredictable and unstable. UN peacekeepers have not yet returned to all their bases, which were the focus of demonstrations. At present all travel to the Ivory Coast is ill-advised. Most governments have urged their nationals to leave the country if their presence is not necessary. If, despite this advice visitors decide to travel to Ivory Coast, careful personal security arrangements should be made due to high levels of anti-Western sentiment. Violent crime is on the increase, including armed break-ins, car jackings, muggings and hold-ups in restaurants. Evening rush hour on Abidjan's Charles de Gaulle Bridge is particularly dangerous. Visitors should be meticulous in respecting the numerous army and police roadblocks. Police and security forces can be excitable and undisciplined. Particular care should be taken in the north and west of the country where there have been frequent clashes. In the area between Duékoué and Odienne, armed elements are often under the influence of drink or drugs, which makes them particularly unpredictable. Be aware of con-men and touts when arriving at Abidjan airport. The bridges crossing the lagoon in Abidjan should be avoided by those on foot. The political situation is volatile and demonstrations can occur unexpectedly. Presidential elections scheduled for 30 October 2005 have been postponed until October 2006 and increased tension, rallies and demonstrations are possible throughout this time. Take care in public places and avoid crowds. Further violence in Abidjan is likely, and foreigners could be potential targets. Taxis, except for metered orange taxis in Abidjan, are risky and often unroadworthy. Buses are overcrowded and best avoided. Sea bathing is dangerous as strong sea currents are present, and drownings are common.

Customs

Photographing military or government installations is forbidden. Homosexuality is illegal. Dress is conservative for men and women. Shorts, tight clothing and strapless tops are frowned upon anywhere except on the beach.

Communications

The country code for Ivory Coast is +225. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). City codes are not required and all numbers have eight digits. GSM 900 networks provide mobile cellular coverage around the main towns and cities, and there are roaming agreements with most international networks. IDD is available.

Duty Free

Travellers to the Ivory Coast do not need to pay customs duty on 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 25 cigars or 250g of tobacco; one bottle of wine and one of spirits; 500ml eau de toilette and 250ml of perfume; a still camera and a movie camera (duty is payable on video cameras, which can be brought in only for personal use); film for personal use; and a reasonable amount of gifts. Currency should be declared.

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