ABIDJAN is typical of contemporary African cities with its colorful and vivid street life linking modern structures and cherished century-old traditions. Where ABIDJAN differs from other African metropolitan areas is in its population, over one third of which are from neighboring countries such as Mali, Burkino Faso, Guinea, Ghana, Senegal, Liberia among others. Bringing together so many different people within such limited space results in a cultural wealth, and a range of traditions and folklore which is a major asset for a city and country where tourism is of significant importance.

Tourism's importance to the Ivorian people is supported by their legendary real hospitality and openness admirably expressed in a proverb from the western region: "Your visitor is more than a son, more than a brother, more than a wife".

Travel north from ABIDJAN and your next destination is the central region towards YAMOUSSOUKRO, the political capital of COTE d'IVOIRE. Here you will find the biggest church in the world, after the Vatican, The Basilica "Our Lady of Peace" which seats 7000. Continue on to BOUAKE: the festive city of over 800,000 residents. If you visit in March, attend the week-long carnival - a festivity attracting thousands of visitors.

Experience real Africa in the Northeast, and discover a unique native people, the Lobi, an unspoilt landscape in Cameo National Park, a dream for safari aficianados.
Here you will find roaming free; lions, panthers, hippos, buffalos and more.

While COTE d'IVOIRE has a varied culture and wildlife, the beaches are no less enchanting, the crafts, gifts and souvenirs are unbelievably priced, if you will bargain and be patient.

FACTS:

Full country name: Republic of Côte d'Ivoire
Area: 322,000 sq km (126,000 sq mi)
Population: 14.7 million
Capital city: Yamoussoukro (pop 100,000)
People: Akan (including Baoulé and Agni), Kru (Yacouba, or Dan, primarily), Senoufo, Mandé, Lebanese and French.
Languages: French, Yacouba, Senoufo, Baoulé, Agni and Dioula.
Religion: Traditional religions (65%), Muslim (23%), Christian, mostly Protestant (12%)
Government: Republic
President: Laurent Gbagbo

Visas: All visitors need a visa except for nationals of Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Sweden, the UK, the US and nationals of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) countries.

Electricity: 220V, 50Hz
Weights & measures: Metric