Yamoussoukro, Abidjan Travel Guide

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Discover Yamoussoukro, Côte d'Ivoire's capital, a city of grand architecture, tranquil lakes, and a unique blend of history and modernity.

Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Côte d'Ivoire, is a city of broad boulevards and striking architecture, most notably the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, one of the largest churches in the world. While not as bustling as the economic capital, Abidjan, Yamoussoukro offers a unique glimpse into the vision of its founding father, Félix Houphouët-Boigny.

A brief summary to Yamoussoukro

8WCR+689, Abidjan, Yopougon, CI

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Yamoussoukro.

Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully appreciate its stunning architecture.
Take a guided tour of the Presidential Palace grounds to see the sacred crocodiles at Lac des Caïmans.
Explore the local markets for a taste of Ivorian culture and to find unique souvenirs.
Consider visiting the Abokouamékro Wildlife Reserve for a chance to see diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

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Explore Yamoussoukro on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Yamoussoukro, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

From Yamoussoukro Airport (ASK), a taxi is the most convenient way to reach the city center. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. A typical ride to the city center takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between 3,000 and 5,000 XOF. Be sure to negotiate the price before starting your journey.
Public Transport

From Abidjan, the most common way to reach Yamoussoukro is by bus. Several bus companies, including UTB, operate daily services from Abidjan's Adjamé station to Yamoussoukro. The journey takes around 4 hours and costs approximately 4,500 XOF. Once you arrive at the Yamoussoukro bus station, taxis are available to take you to your final destination.

Discover more about Yamoussoukro

Yamoussoukro, a city born from the dreams of President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, stands as Côte d'Ivoire's political and administrative capital since 1983. The city's history traces back to 1901 when it was a small village named N'Gokro, led by Queen Yamousso. In 1909, the Akoué people revolted against French colonization. Kouassi N'Go, spared French administrator Simon Maurice's life, leading to the renaming of N'Gokro to Yamoussoukro.Yamoussoukro remained a small agricultural town until Houphouët-Boigny's rise. He envisioned transforming his birthplace into a modern capital, gifting his private plantation to the state in 1977 to expand the city. This led to the construction of hotels, government buildings, and the crowning jewel, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace.The Basilica, consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1990, is a testament to grand ambition, modeled after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Other key attractions include the Presidential Palace, surrounded by artificial lakes inhabited by Nile crocodiles, the Grand Mosque, and the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Foundation for Peace Research. While Yamoussoukro is well-connected by road to other major cities, it retains a tranquil atmosphere, offering a unique contrast to the bustling Abidjan.