Ivory Coast

*While the political situation in the Ivory Coast has been settled, the rule of law has not fully been re-established in some areas. Travellers to the Ivory Coast should exercise extreme caution.*

The independent republic of the Ivory Coast (or Côte d'Ivoire) 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, its main cities of Abidjan and Yamoussoukro were showpieces of the continent, politically stable and economically sound, attractive not only by dint of 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, implementation was difficult and a further peace accord had to be signed in 2007. After the 2003 peace deal tensions remained high, and most foreign nationals 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.

Tourists that do brave the political situation can experience attractions in the Ivory Coast 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, located in a bamboo forest in the lush region around the town of Man, which also hosts the intriguing annual Festival of Masks with performing stilt-dancers.

The cities, too, are worthy experiences, particularly the capital Yamoussoukro. A unique city in Africa, boasting a full-sized replica of St Peter's Basilica in Rome. The stunning cathedral (containing more stained glass than you will find in all the churches of France), and other lavish edifices in the 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 hometown.

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 tourist 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, however, 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.

Money

The official currency is the CFA Franc (XOF), divided into 100 centimes. The CFA Franc is linked to the Euro. New notes were issued in 2004 and only those issued by the Bank of West African States ( Banque des États de l'Afrique de l'Ouest) are valid currency. There are a few ATMs in Abidjan but most will accept only Visa cards. It is unwise to use an ATM that is not guarded. Credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and better restaurants. Most shops require cash. Travellers cheques are accepted in banks, as well as some tourist orientated hotels and restaurants.

Passport Visa

All foreign passengers to the Ivory Coast must hold proof of arranged accommodation, return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter the Ivory Coast. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
• British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
• Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
• Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
• South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
• Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
• New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.

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, and malaria is widespread even in urban areas. Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccinations are also recommended. Meningococcal vaccine is recommended for travel between November and June. HIV/AIDS is widespread and Dengue Fever can occur, so make sure you pack an effective mosquito repellant. Cases of bird flu have been confirmed in Abidjan, but no human infections have been reported. There is low risk to travellers, but as a precaution close contact with live birds should be avoided and all poultry and egg dishes should be well cooked. 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 treatment in Abidjan is of reasonable standard, but private care is expensive, and facilities outside the major towns are very limited. Medical insurance with provision for repatriation is essential.

Embassy Consulates

• Ivory Coast Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 797 0300.
• Ivory Coast Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7201 9601 and +44 (0)20 7235 6991.
• Ivory Coast Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 (613) 236 9919.
• Ivory Coast Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 6913/4.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Abidjan: +225 2249 4000 and +225 2249 4594.
• British High Commission, Accra, Ghana (also responsible for Ivory Coast): +233 (30) 2221 665/645/672.
• Canadian Embassy, Abidjan (also responsible for Australia): +225 2030 0700.
• South African Embassy, Abidjan: +225 2244 5963 and +225 2244 7534.