COTE D’IVORE

The independent republic of the Ivory Coast lies on the south coast of the bulge of West Africa, consisting mainly of a vast plateau (except for mountains in the northwest extremity), hemmed in by five other countries and the Atlantic Ocean. Once, it and its main cities of Abidjan and Yamoussoukro, were showpieces of the continent, politically stable and economically sound, attractive not only in the physical beauty that abounds in the country but also boasting a rich culture.

In 2002 an armed rebellion split the nation, and although a peace deal between the rebels and the Government was brokered in 2003, it has yet to be implemented. Tensions remain high and most foreign nationals have left. Ivory Coast remains blacklisted as a 'no go' destination by most Western governments, with United Nations and French peacekeepers holding on to a volatile situation.

What tourists are currently denied experiencing in Ivory Coast are attractions like one of the last remaining virgin rainforests in West Africa at the Tai National Park, an unspoilt wonderland of huge trees, gurgling streams and abundant wildlife. Then there is the impressive Cascade waterfall in a bamboo forest, in the lush region around the town of Man, which hosts the intriguing annual Festival of Masks with performing stilt dancers.

The cities, too, are worthy experiences, particularly the capital, Yamoussoukro, unique in Africa and boasting a full sized replica of St Peter's in Rome, containing more stained glass than you will find in the whole of France. The stunning cathedral, and other lavish edifices in this surprising city (including an internationally-rated golf course and multi-lane highways that disappear into the jungle), was built courtesy of long-term president, Felix Houphouet-Boigny, who bestowed all these gifts on his home town.

The largest city, Abidjan, has a cosmopolitan flavor lent to it by its large French and Lebanese communities. Abidjan presents an attractive aspect, set on a lagoon and boasting high-rise buildings like the spectacular Hotel Ivoire. Abidjan has its landmark cathedral too: St Paul's was built in 1985 and consecrated by the Pope. The city has a vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere, offering a few good museums for sightseeing and a rainforest reserve called Parc du Banco for shady relaxation.

If and when Ivory Coast solves its political dilemmas it will undoubtedly once again emerge as one of the jewels of Africa, being able to utilise tourism as a means to help shrug off the debts incurred by its wasteful bureaucrats and years of unrest.

CLIMATE IN COTE D’IVORE

The coastal region, where temperatures stay fairly constant between 73°F to 80°F (23°C to 27°C), is dry for most of the year, experiencing an intensely wet rainy season between mid-May and mid-July. In the central forest region of the country, though, it is continually wet and humid. The hottest part of the country is the northern savannah, where temperatures can reach 90°F (32°C). The north experiences a long wet season from June to October.

VISA INFORMATION FOR TOURISTS

All visitors require a passport valid for at least six months after the intended departure date, documents for onward or return travel, and proof of arranged accommodation.

Americans: United States citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days.

UK nationals: UK citizens require a visa to enter Ivory Coast.

Canadians: Canadian citizens require a visa to enter Ivory Coast.

Australians: Australians require a visa to enter Ivory Coast.

South Africans: South African citizens require a visa to enter Ivory Coast.

Irish nationals: Irish nationals require a visa to enter Ivory Coast.

New Zealanders: New Zealanders require a visa to enter Ivory Coast.

TRAVEL ATTRACTION AND THINGS TO DO IN COTE D’IVORE

Yamoussoukro is about 230km (143 miles) north of Abidjan. Discover the town's lively market, the Palace and Plantations of the President and the Mosque. Also of architectural interest but, above all, of statistical interest, is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix. Fractionally smaller than St Peter’s in Rome, it incorporates a greater area of stained glass than the total area of stained glass in France. Roman Catholicism is a minority religion in Côte d’Ivoire (some say that the cathedral could accommodate every Roman Catholic in the country several times over). Yamoussoukro was the birthplace of Félix Houphouët-Boigny, who was Côte d’Ivoire’s president for 33 years. The cathedral was paid for almost entirely out of his own pocket.

• The former capital and largest city, Abidjan, is dominated by the Plateau, the central commercial district. The older, more traditional heart of the city is Treichville, home of many bars, restaurants and nightclubs as well as the colourful central market. There is a very good museum, the Ifon Museum, as well as the National Museum containing historic artefacts, statues and ivory.

• About 100km (60 miles) east of the former capital is the beach resort of Assouinde; other places being developed as tourist attractions include Tiagba, a stilt town; Grand Bassam, whose sandy beaches make the place a favourite weekend retreat for the inhabitants of Abidjan; and Bondoukou, one of the oldest settlements in the country. Note that in Abidjan and the surrounding coastal resorts, there is a dangerous deep current and swimmers should stay near the shore. Local advice should be taken.

• There is also good coastal and river fishing. Red carp, barracuda, mullet and sole can all be caught from the shores of the lagoons. Sea trips can be organised through travel agencies to catch shark, swordfish, bonito and marlin. Boats and instructors are available in Abidjan, where waterskiing facilities are also available.

• In the west of the country, visit the attractive town of Man, situated in a region of thickly forested mountains and plateaux. The nearby waterfalls are a popular attraction, as are climbs to the peak of Mount Tonkoui and visits to the villages of Biankouma and Gouessesso, 55km (34 miles) away.

• Other towns of interest include Korhogo, the main city of the north and centre of a good fishing and hunting district; the former capital of Bingerville; and the town of Bouaké in the centre of the country.

• Spot African wildlife. The national parks are largely inaccessible for visitors without their own vehicles. Local guides are necessary and easily available. The largest and oldest national park is Comoë National Park in the northeast, where lions, waterbucks, hippos and other animals can be observed. The Abokouamekro Game Reserve is about an hour outside Yamoussoukro.

• Although much of Côte d’Ivoire has been deforested, there is good hiking in the west near Man (nicknamed the ‘city of 18 mountains’). A guide is necessary for longer walks.