Ivory Coast or Cote d’Ivoire in French, is a wonderful explosion of mesmerizing landscapes, beautifully vivid sights, and vibrant cultures and traditions.

With several massive mosques and churches, expansive forests filled with interesting creatures, and lots of places of interest, there’s just so much to explore in this country. Planning to visit Cote d’Ivoire? This article will arm you with necessary information you need to get more out of your trip. 

About Cote d’Ivoire

The contrast between crumbling colonial structures and sprawling modern architecture is another feature that accentuates the charm of this country. For the magnificent experience it offers, this destination should ordinarily be among the most popular in the continent. 

However, years of instability and the recent bloody civil war has greatly diminished the appeal of this tropical country. The good news is, the country is emerging from the doldrums of its past and is forging an alluring, forward-thinking future for itself. 

Visa Requirements

Being a member of the ECOWAS, citizens of other African countries who are also members of the ECOWAS do not need a visa in order to gain entry into Cote d’Ivoire.

For others, however, visas are required before entry into the country can be authorised. In addition to a visa, you’d also need a passport, and valid documents that show that you’ve been vaccinated against Yellow Fever. Your passport must also be valid six months before entry into the country. 

While e-visas can be granted at the airport when you arrive.  It’s normally best to make sure that you have your Visa at hand before you travel. Because system glitches may pose a serious challenge. 

Health

You can find adequate privately-run medical facilities in Abidjan, but do not expect anything more! Most do not quite meet up with standards in developed countries. 

Also, while there are good, well-trained specialists in the country, most do not speak English. Mosquitoes are plentiful in the country, which inevitably means that malaria is a real threat. You should try to prepare for this by stocking up on medications before you step into the country. Local pharmacies are usually well-stocked, but they lack new medicines. 

Lastly, the water! It’s best to avoid drinking water from taps in the country because it may cause serious reactions. If you must drink the water, make sure that it’s boiled and sterilized first. Alternatively, only drink bottled water throughout your stay in the country. 

People And Culture In Cote d’Ivoire

Cote d’Ivoire is very diverse culturally, with about 60 ethnic groups present in the country. Although the country has been torn by a series of civil wars, there’s been tentative peace in the country of late. 

The major language spoken in the country is French, although English is also spoken in certain parts of the country. The people of Cote d’Ivoire are very friendly and welcoming, and will usually do all they can to make you feel comfortable, despite the language barrier. Chin chin and puff puff are names of well-beloved delicacies among the locals and if you’re willing to be adventurous, you should try them out, along with other traditional cuisine!