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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Cote Divoire

Essential Preparations

Advance planning makes a difference.

Planning Timeline

Start early for a stress-free departure.

3+

Months Before

Passport Validity

Must be valid six months beyond departure.

e-Visa Application

Apply via SNEDAI (snedai.com) early.

Vaccinations & Malaria

Consult doctor; Yellow Fever mandatory; malaria prophylaxis.

1

Month Before

Accommodation Bookings

Secure hotels in Abidjan and for day trips.

Flight Confirmation

Book international flights to ABJ.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive coverage from providers like World Nomads.

1

Week Before

Document Copies

Make multiple copies; store digital backups.

Bank Notification

Inform banks of travel to prevent card suspension.

Offline Resources

Download offline maps and translation apps.

Bookings

Securing these ahead of time prevents issues.

Critical Reservations

  • International flights should be secured early.
  • E-Visa (or traditional visa) process.
  • Major hotel accommodations.
  • Early bookings avoid disappointment and higher prices.

Home & Self

Prepare your surroundings and yourself.

Before Departure

  • Secure your home before leaving.
  • Inform trusted contacts of your travel plans.
  • Arrange for mail, plant, or pet care if needed.
  • Pack climate-appropriate clothing and essential items.

General Checklist

A quick review for readiness.

Health & Safety

  • Malaria prophylaxis discussion.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance.
  • First aid kit packed.
  • Insect repellent.

Documents & Money

  • Passport, visa, Yellow Fever certificate copies.
  • Flight tickets and hotel bookings.
  • Exchange small amount of XOF/EUR cash.
  • Unlocked mobile phone.

Connectivity & Navigation

  • Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me).
  • Translation apps (Google Translate).
  • Arrange airport transfers.
  • Plan detailed itinerary.

Requirement

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Côte d'Ivoire.

Arrival Checklist

Smooth entry into Abidjan.

First Steps at ABJ

  • Immigration & Customs

    Navigate immigration and customs procedures at Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ).

  • Yellow Fever Certificate

    Present your original Yellow Fever vaccination certificate to immigration officials.

  • Visa Stamp

    Collect your visa stamp if you used the e-Visa system.

Post-Immigration

  • Baggage Claim

    Proceed to baggage claim and locate your luggage.

  • Transport to Accommodation

    Find a reputable taxi or use the Yango app to arrange transport.

  • Local SIM Card

    Obtain a local SIM card at the airport for immediate connectivity.

Initial Orientation

Neighborhood Familiarity

Familiarize yourself with your neighborhood around your accommodation.

Locate nearby amenities like restaurants, supermarkets, and ATMs.

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of cash at the airport upon arrival for immediate needs.

Use ATMs in the city for better exchange rates for larger amounts.

Water & Connectivity

Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival, as tap water is not safe to drink.

Take a moment to confirm your general bearings using your downloaded offline maps.

Airport Transport

Use a pre-arranged hotel shuttle, a private taxi with a pre-negotiated fare, or the Yango app for a transparent and convenient ride to your hotel.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to avoid last-minute stress.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • Factor in your airline's luggage weight limits for souvenirs.
  • Consider shipping options for larger or fragile items.
  • International shipping services (DHL, FedEx) are available but can be expensive.
  • Ensure any purchased crafts comply with import regulations in your home country.

Return Trip Readiness

  • Confirm your flight status online before leaving for the airport.
  • Pack sensitive documents, valuable electronics in carry-on.
  • Prescription medications in carry-on bag.
  • Ensure all necessary travel documents are easily accessible.

Departure Timing

Plan your airport arrival wisely.

Airport Schedule

  • Arrive at Félix Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight's scheduled departure.
  • Allow extra time for traffic in Abidjan, which can be severe and unpredictable.
  • VAT refund for tourists is not common in Côte d'Ivoire.
  • Do not expect to claim refunds on purchases.

Final Checks

  • Passport and boarding pass ready for check-in.
  • Be prepared for security procedures.
  • Ensure all luggage meets airline requirements.
  • Double-check hotel room for forgotten items.

Traffic Advisory

Abidjan traffic can be severe and unpredictable; always allow extra time for airport transfers.

Check peak hours before you travel.