10 Outdoor Activities in Abidjan city

Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire) is one of the most developed countries in West Africa. Ivory Coast has a diverse culture and a rich history, making the country a great destination for travelers. Travelers will be surprised to discover a beautiful and wonderful country populated by extremely friendly people.

Abidjan is Côte d'Ivoire's largest city and a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant culture and interesting outdoor activities. With its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and picturesque parks, Abidjan has something to offer travelers looking for a bit of adventure and excitement in the great outdoors. Here are 10 outdoor activities that you can enjoy in Abidjan city.

Experience The Best Of Abidjan City: 10 Must-Try Outdoor Activities

The Abidjan city is a bustling metropolis of Côte d'Ivoire, with a population of over 4 million people. Abidjan is located on the southern coast of West Africa and is a melting pot of cultures with a mix of French, African, and other international influences. One of the many advantages of living in Abidjan is the abundance of outdoor activities available. Let's explore these outdoor activities with us.

Explore Banco National Park

The Banco National Park is a stunning natural reserve located in the heart of Abidjan. The park covers an area of 3,474 hectares and is the perfect destination for hiking and picnicking. It is home to over 300 species of plants and wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and several species of birds. 

Visitors can take guided tours of the park, and there are several walking trails to explore. With lush greenery and peaceful surroundings, Banco National Park becomes a location to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city.

Visit the Grand-Bassam Beach

Grand-Bassam Beach is home to several water sports activities

Grand-Bassam Beach, about 40 kilometers east of Abidjan, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. One of the main attractions of Grand-Bassam Beach is its beautiful surroundings, with soft white sand and clear blue water. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can take a stroll along the beach, breathing in the fresh sea air and taking in the stunning scenery. The beach is also an excellent location for sunbathing, and visitors can hire sun loungers and umbrellas to relax in the shade.

In addition, Grand-Bassam Beach is also home to several water sports activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear water or take part in a range of activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. 

Along the beach are chic restaurants and bars, offering a range of local and international dishes. Visitors can eat fresh seafood, grilled meat, and a variety of other delicacies while admiring the breathtaking views of the beach and ocean. 

Enjoy a Day at the Abidjan Botanical Gardens

The Abidjan Botanical Gardens is a beautiful and tranquil oasis located just outside of Abidjan city. The gardens are home to a variety of plant species, including several rare and endangered species. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the lush greenery, colorful flowers, and fragrant aromas.

There are also several ponds and small lakes in the gardens, which are home to a variety of fish and aquatic plants. Visitors can watch the fish and other wildlife or simply relax by the water and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Aside from its stunning natural beauty, the Abidjan Botanical Gardens also has a number of educational and cultural attractions. A herbarium in the gardens houses a collection of over 40,000 dried plant specimens from around the world. Visitors can learn about the gardens' history as well as the scientific study of plants and their uses.

Play Golf at the Ivoire Golf Club

For golf enthusiasts, the Ivoire Golf Club is a must-visit destination in Abidjan city. The club is located in the heart of the city and offers a world-class golfing experience for players of all levels.

In addition to the world-class golf course, the Ivoire Golf Club offers a range of amenities for its members and visitors. The club features a modern clubhouse, with a restaurant and bar serving a range of delicious food and beverages. The clubhouse also features a pro shop, offering a range of golf equipment and apparel for purchase.

The Ivoire Golf Club is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy the course and amenities at any time of the year. The club also hosts a range of golfing events and tournaments throughout the year, attracting players from around the world.

Visit the Abidjan Zoo

The Abidjan Zoo is a must-visit destination for nature lovers

The Abidjan Zoo is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The zoo provides an ideal environment for the animals. Visitors can see a range of animals up close, including lions, giraffes, monkeys, and crocodiles, or relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Go on the boat tour at the Ebrie Lagoon

The Ebrie Lagoon is a large body of water located on the edge of Abidjan and is one of the most popular natural attractions in the city. The lagoon stretches over 150 square kilometers and is surrounded by a diverse range of landscapes, including mangroves, forests, and wetlands.

One of the best ways to experience the Ebrie Lagoon is by taking a boat tour. Visitors can hire a boat and explore the lagoon, taking in the stunning scenery and observing the local wildlife. The lagoon is home to a range of bird species, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers, making it an ideal destination for birdwatchers.

The Ebrie Lagoon is also an important commercial center, with several fishing villages located on its shores. Visitors can explore the villages, learn more about the local fishing industry, and even try their hand at fishing. The fish caught in the lagoon are sold in local markets and are a staple of the local cuisine.

One of the best ways to experience the Ebrie Lagoon is by taking a boat tour

Relax at the International Club & Paintball Park

The Club is located half an hour from the city center, between the land and the lagoon. Visitors can relax on this small private beach or jump right into the activities they have to offer, which include kayaking, paintball, sailing, mountain biking, volleyball, petanque, ping-pong, and more. A small pool and some table games are also available. In addition, there is also a restaurant inside the club with typical Ivorian food.

Experience Assinie

Assinie is a stunning coastal town located approximately 80 kilometers east of Abidjan city. The town is a popular tourist destination, famous for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and unique culture.

One of the top experiences in Assinie is a visit to the Assinie Mafia Island. The island is located just off the coast and can be accessed by boat. The island is a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the island's flora and fauna, which include a range of exotic plants and bird species.

Another top experience in Assinie is a visit to the village of Assinie-Mafia. The village is famous for its unique architecture, which combines traditional African and French colonial styles. Visitors can explore the village's narrow streets and alleys and observe the local way of life. The village is also home to a range of small shops, restaurants, and bars, offering a unique and authentic experience for visitors.

Assinie is also a perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, such as jet skiing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and more. 

One of the top experiences in Assinie is a visit to the Assinie Mafia Island

Discover the Abidjan Plateauf

The Abidjan Plateau is the city's historic heart, and it is home to several landmarks and historical structures. Visitors can walk around the Plateau, seeing St. Paul's Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the numerous art galleries and museums. The Plateau also has a number of markets and shopping centers, making it an excellent destination for souvenir shopping.

Discover the Abidjan Plateau

Watch crocodiles at Dipi Crocodile Farm

Located on Assinie Mafia, about an hour's drive from Abidjan. Dipi is considered one of the oldest tourist attractions. The farm is home to a large number of Nile crocodiles, which are native to the region.

The farm offers guided tours, during which visitors can watch the crocodiles being fed and learn about the different stages of their development. In addition to observing the crocodiles, visitors can also learn about the process of crocodile farming, which involves the breeding of crocodiles for their meat and skin. The farm has its own tannery, where crocodile skins are processed into high-quality leather products, such as belts, handbags, and shoes. Visitors can purchase these products from the farm's gift shop, which offers a range of souvenirs and merchandise.

Best Time To Participate In Outdoor Activities In Abidjan Cityf

The dry season, which lasts from November to March, is the best time to engage in outdoor activities in Abidjan. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, with comfortable temperatures that are ideal for outdoor pursuits. During the dry season, the humidity is also lower, making outdoor activities more pleasant.

During the wet season, which runs from April to October, the weather is hot and humid, with frequent rainfall and the occasional thunderstorm. While some outdoor activities can still be enjoyed during the wet season, it is important to be prepared for the rainy weather and to take necessary precautions to stay safe.

It is also worth noting that the weather can be unpredictable in Abidjan, and sudden rain showers can occur even during the dry season. Before engaging in any outdoor activities, it is always a good idea to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing and gear for the conditions.

Some Useful Information To Experience The Best Of Outdoor Activities In Abidjan City

International travelers must apply for a visa before traveling to the Ivory Coast unless their country is on the list of visa-free countries for the Ivory Coast. Fortunately, visitors can apply for an electronic visa (e-visa) for tourism or business purposes to enter Abidjan city. 

With years of experience and excellent staff, Ivory Coast Immigration Services can help travelers get their visas quickly by completing the visa application form. Our electronic visa application process ensures that visa application will be much easier.

In addition, we recommend you buy Travel Insurance for your vacation. Unforeseen circumstances may create financial hazards that may affect your trip. Medical Payments Coverage, Trip Delay, Trip Interruption, Lost Baggage, and Protecting Your Benefit from the Covid-19 Pandemic are just a few of the treatments offered by the policy. Learn more Travel Insurance here.