Cote d'Ivoire Travel Guide

The Cote d'Ivoire (or, Ivory Coast) lies on the S coast of the protuding bulge of W Africa. Once upon a time, the country and its main cities of Abidjan and Yamoussoukro, were showcases of the continent, politically stable and economically sound, attractive not just for the country's physical beauty but also boasting a rich culture and relaxed way of life. However, a string of coups and popular insurgencies shook the country's foundations, and a northern-led rebellion in 2002 violently split the country in half. Most of the huge French-expat community jumped ship, and the economy has since crumbled from its previous solid foundations.

Aside from economic and political troubles, the country boasts some of the best natural attractions in W Africa, such as Parc National de Taï’s vast patch of rainforest and the string of beaches along the Atlantic coast. It’s also a land rich in tradition and culture due to a diverse tribal mix that includes Dan, Lobi, Baoulé and Senoufo.

The country's capital city, Abidjan, is a bit rough round the edges these days, but its shimmering skyscrapers will still astound. Yamoussoukro in the Centre is famous for its basilica, an astonishing replica of Rome’s St Peter’s.

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