Things to Do in Abidjan

About Abidjan

Where the Atlantic Ocean kisses the shores of West Africa, Abidjan pulses with an intoxicating blend of French sophistication and busy African soul. This cosmopolitan jewel, once the pearl of French colonial Africa, has evolved into a dynamic metropolis where glass towers reflect the golden sunsets over Ébrié Lagoon, and the rhythm of Coupé-Décalé music spills from bustling markets into air-conditioned shopping centers. In Cocody's tree-lined boulevards, you'll discover a city that refuses to choose between tradition and modernity—where women in colorful pagnes share sidewalks with suited businesspeople, and the aroma of attiéké mingles with café au lait in sidewalk bistros. Abidjan's districts each tell their own story: the historic charm of Grand-Bassam's colonial architecture, Plateau's banking district energy, and Treichville's authentic street life. This is a city that embraces you with warm smiles, challenges you with its complexity, and leaves you forever changed by its infectious joie de vivre.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use official orange taxis with meters or negotiate fares upfront—expect 1,000-3,000 CFA for short rides. Download the local Yango app for reliable rides. Avoid overcrowded gbaka minibuses during rush hours, but they're authentic and cheap at 200-300 CFA per journey.

Money: Carry West African CFA francs in cash—many places don't accept cards. Exchange money at banks or official bureaux de change for better rates than hotels. ATMs are common in Plateau and Cocody but may run empty on weekends.

Cultural Respect: Greet with a handshake and ask 'Ça va?' Learn basic French phrases as English isn't widely spoken. Dress modestly when visiting local neighborhoods. Remove shoes when entering homes and always accept offered hospitality—refusing is considered rude.

Food Safety: Stick to busy local maquis (outdoor restaurants) with high turnover for authentic cuisine. Try attiéké, kedjenou, and alloco from reputable vendors. Drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Fresh coconut water sold on streets is generally safe and refreshing.

When to Visit

Abidjan's tropical climate offers two distinct seasons, each with unique advantages. The dry season (November-March) brings the most comfortable weather with temperatures ranging 24-32°C, minimal rainfall (under 60mm monthly), and cooling harmattan winds from the Sahara. This peak period sees hotel rates increase 40-60%, but you'll enjoy perfect beach weather and clear skies for exploring. December-January is particularly busy with French holidays and local festivities. The wet season (April-October) divides into lighter rains (April-July, September-October) with temperatures of 25-30°C and heavy downpours (August-September) reaching 400mm monthly. Budget travelers benefit from 30-50% lower accommodation rates, lush green landscapes, and fewer crowds, though afternoon thunderstorms are frequent. Key festivals include FEMUA music festival (March), showcasing African artists, and Fête du Dipri in nearby villages (March-April). The Abidjan Carnival occurs in February during peak dry season. Business travelers should avoid August when many locals vacation. First-time visitors should choose November-February for optimal weather, while culture enthusiasts might prefer the busy wet season when local life is most authentic, despite occasional travel disruptions from flooding.