CAVA: Abidjan's Artisan Village

The Centre Artisanal de la Ville d'Abidjan (CAVA) is more than just a market; it's a cultural experience. This artisan village is organized like a small community of red-brick shops, each offering a unique array of handcrafted goods. Wander through the shaded alleys and discover batiks, Korhogo canvases, traditional loincloths, bronze sculptures, and naive paintings. CAVA is the place to find authentic Ivorian and West African art. You can find wooden and metal objects, masks, and drums, as well as cloth, reptile bags, and leather-covered trunks. Many vendors specialize in particular crafts, and you might even catch artisans at work. Keep an eye out for unique pieces from Ghana, Mali, and Nigeria. Popular items include wood carvings, leather products (including crocodile, lizard, and snake leather), clothing made from local linen, and paintings. Remember to negotiate prices. Beyond the crafts, CAVA offers a glimpse into local life. A 'maquis' (local restaurant) in the center of the market serves traditional dishes and cold drinks, providing a welcome respite from shopping. It's a great spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere as the vendors begin to close their shops for the day. If you buy wooden statues or many wooden items, you'll need to go to the National Museum of Abidjan and get an export certificate.