Abidjan is the former official capital of the Ivory Coast, the current one is Yamoussoukro. But it’s also the largest city and an important economic center within the nation, as well the third largest French speaking city in the world. The city of Abidjan is considered a cultural hub of West Africa, nowadays it’s characterized by high industrialization and urbanization. The city is situated in Ébrié Lagoon on several converging peninsulas and islands which are connected by bridges. As of latest measurement the city of Abidjan has a population of 3.9 million people.
Yamoussoukro is the capital city of Cote d’Ivoire, or the Ivory Coast. It is found 150 miles north of Abidjan. It covers 1,351.3 square miles and has 169 settlements. Yamoussoukro is headed by a governor, instead of a mayor. It became Ivory Coast’s capital in 1983 but is starting to feel the pressure from Abidjan. The country’s former president, Felix Houphouet-Boigny’s, had always dreamed that somehow Yamoussoukro will blossom into a thriving, bustling capital. According to the latest measurement, the city’s population is estimated at 200 thousand
Many find Yamoussoukro a strange capital. It is partly because Abidjan seems to be more like the capital city of Ivory Coast, while Yamoussoukro just retains the title. Yamoussoukro is also supposed to be a modern city. The attempt is there with the grid-like, paved streets. However, the streets are yet to offer much. The city does not house embassies and government ministries and has less commercial activity and entertainment expected of a capital city. It is said that Houphouet-Boigny was the one who really wanted the city to be the center of the Ivory Coast.
You can reach the Ivory Coast through a flight from Paris, France. Air Ivoire and Air France have regular flights to and from the African country. You may also get a connection flight from Brussels, Belgium. Fares from France to Ivory Coast, and vice versa, are quite affordable. Within Yamoussoukro, you can get around by bus or taxi. You can also travel on foot, but rather find alternatives to walking during the hot months.
If you are visiting the Ivory Coast, you need to bring a passport, which is valid for at least six months, along with your round trip tickets. You must also present an invitation coming from hosts living in the country or any proof of hotel reservations. You need to present a vaccination certificate for yellow fever. Visa requirements also include two accomplished application forms and two passport photos.
