The political and economic capital, Abidjan, is the largest city in the country with around five million inhabitants.
The political and economic capital, Abidjan, is the largest city in the country with around five million inhabitants. The population is made up of many ethnic groups, including the Akan, the Kru/Bété, the Volta, the Senoufo and the Malinké. The culturally diverse country is home to more than 60 indigenous languages. French is the main language of communication in Ivory Coast. Around 40% of the population are Muslim and around 30% are Christian. The remaining inhabitants are animists.
Sights in Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast is particularly known for its many palm-lined beaches. Popular beaches in the country include those in the resort towns of Grand-Béréby, Assouindé, Assinie, Grand-Bassam and Sassandra. Another attraction in Ivory Coast is the city of Man. Due to its forested and mountainous landscape, the city is often referred to as the city of the 18 mountains. Man is also famous for its nationwide mask festivals, which take place every February.
The metropolis of Abidjan, on the other hand, is often referred to as the Paris of West Africa due to its preserved colonial flair. In this city of many high-rise buildings, large business districts and streets, there is also the older city centre with many nightclubs, restaurants and bars.
In addition, the country is home to numerous national parks, such as Comoé National Park, Parc du Banco National Park and Taï National Park. These parks protect the country’s unique African flora and fauna, including some of West Africa’s largest rainforest areas and native chimpanzees, leopards, elephants, antelopes and lions.
Location and climate of Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast is located in the west of the African continent. The country borders Ghana to the east, Mali and Burkina Faso to the north, Guinea and Liberia to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.
Ivory Coast can be divided into three climatic zones. The coastal region has a tropical climate with two dry and two rainy seasons. The dry seasons run from December to March and from August to September, while the rainy seasons are from May to June and from October to November. Temperatures along the coast are consistently warm, ranging from 25 to 35 degrees year-round. However, humidity is very high at around 90%. In the central region of Ivory Coast, humidity is more pleasant at around 70%, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 40 degrees. Otherwise, the seasons here are similar to those on the coast. In the north of the country, temperatures range from 10 to 40 degrees, with significant variations. During the dry season from November to May, humidity is just 30%, but it rises to up to 90% during the rainy season from June to October.
Arrival and entry
Ivory Coast has an international airport in Abidjan. The city, which is about 16 kilometres away, can be reached by taxi or bus. All borders with neighbouring countries are open, but it should be noted that borders are closed at night.
German nationals require a passport and a visa to enter Ivory Coast. If the stay exceeds three months, a separate residence permit is required. In addition, proof of a valid yellow fever vaccination is required upon entry.
