
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Cocody, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
1. Museum of Contemporary Arts
Explore modern and contemporary art from local and international artists.
- Unique Collection: Features a diverse collection, including pieces that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Côte d’Ivoire.
- Temporary Exhibits: Frequent temporary exhibitions showcasing different themes and artists.
- Interactive Workshops: Offers interactive workshops, giving visitors a hands-on experience with art.
2. Aéroclub d'Abidjan
Experience the thrill of hot air balloon rides over Cocody and its surrounding areas.
- Breathtaking Views: Provides a unique bird's-eye view of Côte d’Ivoire's landscapes, cities, and wildlife.
- Safety Standards: Adheres to international safety standards for hot air balloon rides.
- Sunrise/Sunset Flights: Offers morning and evening flights, providing beautiful opportunities for capturing photos.
3. Le Labo de la Cité
A creative workshop where visitors can learn traditional artisanal techniques.
- Artisanal Workshops: Offers workshops in pottery, batik, and weaving, taught by local master craftsmen.
- Unique Products: Produces handmade, high-quality artisanal items for sale.
- Community Support: Supports the local artisanal community by providing employment opportunities and training.
4. Parc d'Odienné
A wildlife reserve that offers a unique opportunity to see African elephants up close.
- Elephant Sanctuary: Provides a safe haven for orphaned and rescued African elephants.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the elephants' behaviors, conservation efforts, and the local ecosystem.
- Interactive Experiences: Provides opportunities for close encounters with African elephants, such as feeding and interaction programs.
5. Village des Femmes du Bacrou
A village that showcases the traditional crafts of Ivorian women.
- Traditional Crafts: Features intricate baskets, textiles, and pottery made by local artisans.
- Community-Based Tourism: Promotes sustainable tourism by supporting the local community and empowering women artisans.
- Cultural Performances: Offers cultural performances, demonstrations, and workshops to share the traditions of Côte d’Ivoire.
6. Le Grand Marché de Treichville
One of West Africa's largest markets offering a vibrant display of local produce and goods.
- Authentic Experience: Provides an authentic glimpse into the daily lives, culture, and commerce of Côte d’Ivoire.
- Variety of Goods: Features a vast array of fresh produce, textiles, electronics, and other goods.
- Local Cuisine: Offers a variety of local street foods, providing an opportunity to try traditional Ivorian dishes.
7. La Réserve de Faune de Taï
A wildlife reserve dedicated to the conservation of primates and other African species.
- Primate Sanctuary: Provides a safe haven for endangered primate species, such as chimpanzees and drills.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to explore the diverse wildlife and habitats within the reserve.
- Research & Conservation: Engages in research, conservation efforts, and anti-poaching initiatives to protect African wildlife.
8. Le Monument aux Héroïnes du Fouta
A monument dedicated to the heroines of the Fouta Djallon region in Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire.
- Historical Significance: Honors the warrior women who defended their communities against foreign invaders.
- Iconic Symbolism: Features a striking statue of a woman holding a sword, symbolizing strength and resilience.
- Cultural Preservation: Serves as a reminder of the important role women have played in West African history and culture.
9. Le Marché des Fétiches
A traditional market specializing in herbs, potions, and charms for spiritual practices.
- Spiritual Traditions: Offers a glimpse into the rich spiritual traditions of Côte d’Ivoire.
- Authentic Artifacts: Features traditional artifacts and charms, such as amulets, herbs, and potions.
- Expert Consultations: Provides consultations with spiritual practitioners who can offer insights and guidance.
10. Le Musée de la Gendarmerie Royale de Côte d’Ivoire
A museum dedicated to the history and evolution of the Ivorian gendarmerie.
- Military History: Offers a comprehensive overview of the gendarmerie's role in Côte d’Ivoire's history.
- Interactive Displays: Features interactive displays, such as uniforms, weapons, and vehicles.
- Patriotic Spirit: Inspires a sense of national pride and respect for the gendarmerie's service to Côte d’Ivoire.
11. Le Musée de la Banque Centrale des Etats de l’Afrique de l’Ouest
A museum dedicated to the history and evolution of the West African monetary system.
- Monetary History: Offers a comprehensive overview of the development and evolution of West African currency.
- Interactive Displays: Features interactive displays, such as historical artifacts, banknotes, and coins.
- Economic Education: Provides insight into the economic history of West Africa and the challenges faced by its central banks.
12. Le Jardin Botanique de Treichville
A botanical garden dedicated to the conservation and study of African flora.
- Conservation Efforts: Provides a safe haven for endangered African plant species.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and workshops about the importance of preserving African biodiversity.
- Beautiful Landscapes: Features stunning landscapes, including lush gardens, waterfalls, and a tranquil lake.
13. Le Musée de la Mer
A maritime museum that showcases the history, culture, and marine life of Côte d’Ivoire.
- Marine Life Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits about various marine species found in Côte d’Ivoire.
- Ship Models: Displays intricate ship models that showcase the rich maritime history of Côte d’Ivoire.
- Marine Conservation: Promotes marine conservation and awareness about the challenges faced by the oceans.
14. La Grotte de la Marliène
An underground cave featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
- Geological Wonders: Features awe-inspiring geological formations, including towering stalactites and stalagmites.
- Cave Exploration: Offers guided tours to explore the intricate network of subterranean passages.
- Local Legends: Features local legends and myths about the cave's formation and its spiritual significance.
15. Le Village de la Musique de Treichville
A music village that showcases traditional Ivorian music and instruments.
- Traditional Music: Offers live performances of traditional Ivorian music, such as mbalax and zouglou.
- Music Workshops: Provides workshops where visitors can learn about traditional instruments and rhythms.
- Cultural Performances: Features cultural performances, such as dance and storytelling, that showcase the richness of Ivorian culture.