Ivory Coast Flights and Travel Guide

Language

The official language is French but more than 60 native dialects are spoken.

Back to top

Money

The official currency is the CFA Franc (XOF), divided into 100 centimes. The CFA Franc is linked to the Euro. New notes have recently been introduced and the old ones ceased to be legal tender on 31 December 2004; only those issued by the Bank of West African States (Banque des Etats de l'Afrique de l'Ouest) are valid currency. There are a few ATMs in Abidjan but most will accept only Visa cards. It is unwise to use an ATM that is not guarded. Credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and better restaurants. Most shops require cash. Travelers checks are accepted in banks, as well as some tourist orientated hotels and restaurants.

Back to top

Communications

The country code for Ivory Coast is +225. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the U.S.). City/area codes are not required and all numbers have eight digits. GSM 900 networks provide mobile cellular coverage around the main towns and cities, and there are roaming agreements with most international networks. International Direct Dialing is available. There are Internet cafes in Abidjan.

Back to top

Tipping

A service charge is usually added to hotel and restaurant bills. Where it is not, a tip of 10-15 percent is acceptable. Taxi drivers usually expect 10 percent.

Back to top

Safety

The political situation is volatile and demonstrations can occur unexpectedly. Take care in public places and avoid crowds. At present all travel to Cote D'Ivoire is ill-advised due to heightened political tensions, and most governments have urged their nationals to leave the country if their presence is not necessary.

Back to top

Health

There are a variety of health risks prevalent in Ivory Coast, and a yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. Immigration officials will check this at the airport. Cholera is present in rural areas, malaria is widespread even in urban areas and there have been cases of Ebola in the far west. Typhoid, hepatitis A, B and C, and tuberculosis vaccinations are also recommended. HIV/AIDS is widespread and dengue fever can occur. Cases of bird flu have been confirmed in Abidjan, but no human infections have been reported. There is low risk to travelers, but as a precaution close contact with live birds should be avoided and all poultry and egg dishes should be well cooked. All water should be sterilized before use, and milk, which is unpasteurized, should be boiled. Avoid dairy products and ensure meat is well cooked and eaten hot. Fruit and vegetables should be cooked and/or peeled before consumption. Medical facilities in Abidjan are of reasonable standard, but private care is expensive. Medical insurance with provision for repatriation is essential.

Back to top

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Plug types in use are round-pin attachment plugs or round-pin plugs and receptacles with male grounding pin.

Back to topp