Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Abidjan, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
1. Plateau du Bonon
A lesser-known natural wonder offering panoramic views of Abidjan, featuring lush greenery and diverse wildlife.
- Natural Beauty: Provides a serene escape from the bustling city.
- Wildlife Spotting: Offers an opportunity to observe various species of birds and monkeys.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy the breathtaking views of Abidjan from this hilltop location.
2. Musee National de la Danse
A unique museum dedicated to the rich dance traditions of Côte d'Ivoire, showcasing various cultural artifacts and dance performances.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn about the history and evolution of traditional Ivorian dances.
- Performance Opportunities: Visitors can even participate in dance workshops and performances.
- Artifact Collection: Features a vast collection of African dance costumes, masks, and instruments.
3. Marina Boulevard
An upscale waterfront district with a unique mix of restaurants, shops, and residential buildings, boasting stunning views of the Lagon Ebrié.
- Upscale Dining: Experience fine dining at some of Abidjan's best restaurants.
- Unique Architecture: Admire modern and futuristic architectural designs along the boulevard.
- Stunning Views: Enjoy picturesque sunsets over the Lagon Ebrié.
4. Les Jardins de la Pagode
A peaceful Chinese-inspired garden offering a tranquil escape from city life with its ponds, bridges, and pagoda.
- Tranquility: Find peace and relaxation in this serene environment.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience a slice of Chinese culture in the heart of Abidjan.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture beautiful, idyllic scenes for your photo collection.
5. Marché d'Artisanat de Treichville
A vibrant artisanal market selling handcrafted items such as textiles, sculptures, and jewelry, providing an insight into Ivorian craftsmanship.
- Shopping for Unique Items: Find one-of-a-kind souvenirs to bring home.
- Cultural Exchange: Interact with local artisans and learn about their crafting techniques.
- Bargaining Experience: Hone your bargaining skills while shopping for the perfect souvenir.
6. Les Plateaux du Basilique Notre-Dame de la Paix
A unique neighborhood with stunning basilica overlooking the city, known for its picturesque streets and street art.
- Religious Site: Visit a beautiful basilica with stunning architecture.
- Street Art: Admire colorful murals and graffiti throughout the neighborhood.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning shots of the basilica and the vibrant streets.
7. Parc National de Taï
A lush rainforest national park located just a few hours from Abidjan, home to various endangered species such as elephants and chimpanzees.
- Wildlife Encounters: Get close to some of Africa's most iconic animals.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the serene beauty and tranquility of a tropical rainforest.
- Adventure Activities: Participate in guided tours, treks, and safaris.
8. Le Marché des Fétishistes
A traditional market selling various African fetishes, spiritual items, and herbs, offering a glimpse into the mystical side of Ivorian culture.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn about traditional African spiritual beliefs and practices.
- Shopping for Spiritual Items: Find unique spiritual items to bring home or use in your own practice.
- Bargaining Experience: Hone your bargaining skills while shopping for these unique items.
9. Le Musée des Civilisations de Côte d'Ivoire
A national museum showcasing the history and cultures of Côte d'Ivoire, with exhibits on archaeology, art, and ethnography.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn about the rich history and diverse cultures of Côte d'Ivoire.
- Art & Artifact Collection: Admire a vast collection of African art, artifacts, and historical items.
- Interactive Exhibits: Engage with interactive exhibits and educational activities.
10. Le Palais de la Paix
A striking architectural masterpiece housing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) headquarters, offering guided tours and exhibitions.
- Architectural Marvel: Admire this modern and unique building designed by the late architect Diébédo Francis Kéré.
- Regional Politics: Learn about the political affairs of West African nations at ECOWAS.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to explore the building and learn about its significance.
11. Le Musée National de la Résistance Française
A museum dedicated to France's Resistance during World War II, featuring exhibits on the Free French Forces and various resistance movements.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the bravery and resilience of the Free French Forces during WWII.
- Artifact Collection: Admire a collection of artifacts, weapons, and uniforms used by the resistance fighters.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about the stories and events portrayed in the museum.
12. Le Pont Suspendu de la Rivière Bandama
A picturesque suspension bridge offering stunning views of the River Bandama and its surrounding landscapes.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the River Bandama.
- Adventure Activities: Cross the bridge for an adrenaline rush or explore the surrounding area by foot.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning shots of the bridge and its surroundings.
13. Le Marché de la Foire
A bustling night market offering a variety of food, drinks, and goods, providing an authentic Ivorian nightlife experience.
- Authentic Nightlife Experience: Experience the vibrant Abidjan nightlife at this bustling market.
- Food & Drink Tasting: Sample delicious local dishes and refreshments.
- Shopping Opportunities: Find unique items, from food to clothing, at this lively market.
14. Le Parc National de la Comoé
A vast national park located in the southeastern region of Côte d'Ivoire, home to various wildlife species such as elephants, lions, and hippos.
- Wildlife Encounters: Get close to some of Africa's most iconic animals.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy the serene beauty and tranquility of a tropical savannah.
- Adventure Activities: Participate in guided tours, treks, and safaris.
15. Le Musée de la Résistance Ivoirienne
A museum dedicated to the history of the Ivorian resistance movements during various political conflicts, featuring exhibits on the civil war and post-conflict reconciliation.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the struggles and triumphs of Ivorian resistance movements.
- Artifact Collection: Admire a collection of artifacts, weapons, and uniforms used by the resistance fighters.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about the stories and events portrayed in the museum.