Resources & References: Abidjan

Digital Tools

Applications

Yango
The main ride-sharing app in Abidjan.
Google Maps
Download offline maps for Abidjan for navigation.
Maps.me
Another excellent offline map option with detailed maps.
Google Translate
A helpful tool for language translation; download French offline pack.
WhatsApp
Widely used in Côte d'Ivoire for local communication.

Online Planning & Insights

SNEDAI
Official website for Côte d'Ivoire e-Visa applications (snedai.com).
Côte d'Ivoire Tourism
Official tourism board website for destination information.
Airline Websites
Visit sites of major airlines operating to Abidjan.
Hotel Booking Sites
Use platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb.
Social Media
Follow local news outlets (Fraternité Matin, Koaci.com) for updates.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

Dedicated guidebooks solely for Côte d'Ivoire are less common. Seek major guidebook publishers' latest West Africa editions.

Find guidebooks

City Maps

Good quality city maps of Abidjan may be at larger bookstores or hotel gift shops upon arrival.

Locate bookstores

Local Literature

Works by Ivorian authors, like Ahmadou Kourouma, present cultural insight.

Explore Ivorian Authors Find Local Publications

Further Learning

Immersive Content

Search for documentaries or films on Côte d'Ivoire's history.
Explore Ivorian music genres like Coupé-Décalé and Zouglou.
Artists like Alpha Blondy and Magic System provide a soundtrack.
Research Ivorian contemporary artists and traditional art forms.

Community & Language

Expat forums for Abidjan offer practical advice and local insights.
Utilize language apps like Duolingo or Babbel for basic French phrases.
Consider online French courses to enhance proficiency.
Connect with people living in the city for real-time tips.

Local Publications

Fraternité Matin

The national daily newspaper.
Available at kiosks throughout the city.
A source for local news and event listings.
It mirrors current affairs.

Jeune Afrique

A prominent pan-African news magazine.
Covers Côte d'Ivoire and regional affairs.
Offers broader context.
Available at larger newsstands.

City Guides

Local city guides at hotels.
Event listings from cultural centers.
Current information on happenings in Abidjan.
Check hotel lobbies for information.

Safety & Health

Emergency & Medical

Emergency Numbers

Police: 170
Fire Department: 180
Ambulance: 185
Your Embassy/Consulate: Keep contacts available.

Hospitals & Clinics

Polyclinique Internationale Sainte Anne Marie (PISAM): Cocody.
Clinique Farah: Cocody.
Both are well-regarded private options.
Contact your travel insurance for direct billing.

Lost Document Procedures

Report loss or theft to local police immediately.
Obtain a police report; it is necessary for further steps.
Contact your country's embassy for an emergency travel document.
Keep digital copies of documents.

Health & Safety Guidelines

Pre-Trip Health Measures

Yellow Fever vaccination is required for entry.
Consult doctor for malaria prophylaxis.
Some vaccinations necessitate multiple doses.

General Safety Tips

Do not walk alone at night.
Remain aware of pickpockets in crowded places.
Stick to bottled or purified water only.

Airport & Arrival

First Steps at ABJ

Navigate immigration and customs procedures.
Present original Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
Collect your visa stamp if e-Visa was used.

Transport from ABJ

Proceed to baggage claim and locate luggage.
Find a reputable taxi or use the Yango app for transport.
Obtain a local SIM card for immediate connectivity.

Initial Orientation

Neighborhood Familiarity

Familiarize yourself with your accommodation's vicinity.
Locate nearby amenities like restaurants, supermarkets, and ATMs.
Confirm general bearings using downloaded offline maps.
Take a moment to absorb your surroundings.
Explore nearby points of interest.

Currency & Water

Exchange a small amount of cash at the airport upon arrival.
Use ATMs in the city for better exchange rates for larger amounts.
Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival.
Tap water is not safe to drink.
Always carry some local currency.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Flooding Preparedness

In case of severe flooding during the rainy season, adhere to local authority instructions.

Safety Steps

Seek high-lying ground and avoid flooded areas for your safety.

Stay Informed

Monitor local news and weather forecasts for timely updates and advisories.

Embassy Information

Keep your country's embassy or consulate contact details in Abidjan readily available.

Further Exploration

Dives

Cultural Immersion

Engage Local Guides
Hire local, certified guides for tours and excursions.
Enriched Experience
Their knowledge enriches your experience.
Support Local Businesses
Directly support local livelihoods.

Beyond Sightseeing

Explore Local Markets
Discover places like Treichville and Adjamé.
Taste Authentic Cuisine
Savor local dishes at maquis.
Attend Festivals
Experience local festivals if timing aligns.

Unique Discoveries

Yamoussoukro

Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, the largest church in the world.

Plan your visit

Grand-Bassam

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture.

Discover the past

Banco National Park

An urban forest for a refreshing escape and nature walk.

Explore the park

Responsible Engagement

Ethical Support

Support local businesses for direct economic contributions.
Engage certified local guides for authentic tours.
Donate to established, transparent local charities.
Research reputable organizations for donations.

Sustainable Practices

Minimize single-use plastics; carry a reusable water bottle.
Dispose of trash properly; avoid littering.
Be mindful of water and electricity usage at accommodation.
Stay on marked trails in natural areas; avoid disturbing wildlife.

Cultural Respect

Interactions

Ask permission before photographing individuals.
Dress modestly, especially at religious sites.
Learn basic French phrases for respectful communication.
Be patient and open-minded to local ways.

Local Norms

Embrace the local pace of life.
Avoid imposing your own cultural expectations.
Acknowledge the city's multicultural fabric.
Observe and learn from daily interactions.

A Note on Engagement

Your spending directly supports local livelihoods and the economy.

Prioritize local eateries and transport.

Resources & References