Africa
Ivory Coast
French-speaking West African economic hub with a modern Abidjan, good roads, lagoon beaches and cheap-ish eating out. Few English speakers and a stretch of unstable border in the north.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa23 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyXOFUS$1 ≈ CFA582.98Details
- Price level37%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English2/5LimitedDetails
- PlugsType C, E230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency112Police 110 · Ambulance 185 · Fire 180 · All emergencies 112
- Tap waterFilter or boilTap water is treated in Abidjan but not reliably safe; drink bottled or filtered water.Details
- LGBTQ+LegalSame-sex acts are not criminalised, but there is no legal protection, and social attitudes are conservative; Abidjan has a discreet scene.Details
- DrivingOn the rightForeign licences with an IDP are accepted for short stays; French translation helps at police stops.
Where to go in Ivory Coast
2 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AbidjanCity | 3/5 | $1,540–2,570 | Dec–Mar | 19/100 |
| Grand-BassamTown | 3/5 | $858–1,540 | Dec–Mar | 59/100 |
When to visit Ivory Coast
December–March is the driest and cooler season on the coast; the north is hottest in March–April. Heavy rains on the coast run May–July.
Good to know
Entry
- Most visitors need an e-visa applied for online before travel; check the official Côte d'Ivoire e-visa portal for your nationality.
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required and checked on arrival at Abidjan.
- Passport must be valid six months beyond arrival; bring an onward ticket and accommodation details.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Carry a copy of your passport; police checks are frequent
- Photographing military, police and government sites is restricted
- Drug offences, including cannabis, are prosecuted
Etiquette
- Greet with a handshake and ask how people are before any request
- Use your right hand to give, receive and eat
- Ask before photographing people; dress modestly outside the coast
- Agree a taxi fare before getting in
Tipping
Not required; 5–10% in restaurants or a few hundred XOF is appreciated.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.