If you are interested in African history, art or music, Cote d’Ivoire is the place where you can get acquainted with Africa more fully. The culture of Cote d'Ivoire is considered one of the best in West Africa, and each ethnic group has very peculiar rites and rituals. The peoples of the country are widely known for their original wooden sculpture. Thus, the traditional local wooden mask is a very accurate depiction of a human face, a little exaggerated for the more complete transmission of the character.

Used in various ceremonies, these face masks are very realistic and transfer the characteristics of appearance. Senufo masks are the opposite. They are very stylized and have the appearance of an antelope, warthog and hyena, the most respected local animals. Another characteristic product of local artisans is a large spoon for cooking rice. It has the form of a human being and serves as a great local souvenir.

The city of Yamoussoukro became the capital of the country in 1983. The main attraction of the city is the church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Pax. It is so far the highest church in the whole Christian world, modeled according to the design of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.

Abidjan had been a provincial town until 1951, when the French completed the construction of a canal which gave the city an excellent harbor. Since then, the population has grown to nearly 3 million people. Known as the 'Paris of West Africa', Abidjan has a lot of attractions, including the traditional large market of craft products and many picturesque parks. The central part of the city is a chic residential section, interesting for its architecture. Here one can find the Imperial 'Ivory' Hotel, which is considered the most famous hotel in West Africa and the main attraction of the city. It has everything you can imagine, ranging from a swimming pool to a skating rink, and a casino. Near the hotel, there is the Cathedral of St. Paul, one of the most elegant temples in the world.

North-western outskirts of the city, Parc du Banco, is a true rain forest, gradually merging with the city buildings, which guarantees a pleasant walk. It is the coolest place on the southern coast of the country and therefore it is very popular among fans of jogging.

Tropical forests of the country have declined rapidly. Virgin forests remain only in national parks, occupying 3,600 square kilometers in the southwestern part of the country. Walking through the equatorial forest is a unique experience. The tall trees, lianas, swift streams and wildlife create a peaceful and charming landscape.

To the north-east of Abidjan, there is the largest in West Africa National Park Komoe. Here is one of the most popular animal paths, where one can observe the habits of a variety of native species in their natural habitat.

The city of Man in the central part of the country is a territory of lush green hills, the waterfall of La Cascade, and the mountain La Dent de Man, which is considered the 'guardian angel' of this region of the country.

Korhogo is the capital of the Senufo people. The 'heart' of the city is a bustling market. Senufo people are widely known for their wood carvings, they are skilled blacksmiths and potters. Their souvenirs can be bought in the small area called Sculptor-Quartier.

In the port area of Sasandra, one will find beautiful beaches. But it is numerous ethnic fishing villages that make this area attractive for tourists. Some of the best places for surfing are found off the coast of Grand Belebey near the Liberian border.

Interested in visiting Cote d'Ivoire? See the list of travel agencies in Cote d'Ivoire or tour operators in Cote d'Ivoire who can be very helpful in organizing such trip elements as booking hotels, finding cheaper flights, hiring tour guides etc.