Lac aux Caïmans, Yamoussoukro Travel Guide

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Witness hundreds of sacred crocodiles at Lac aux Caïmans in Yamoussoukro, a unique blend of wildlife and Ivorian culture.

Lac aux Caïmans (Crocodile Lake) in Yamoussoukro offers a thrilling glimpse into the world of Nile crocodiles. Located near the Presidential Palace, this artificial lake is home to hundreds of these impressive reptiles, considered sacred by locals, making it a unique and memorable attraction.

A brief summary to Lac aux Caïmans

RPGC+37J, Unnamed Road, Yamoussoukro, CI
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Know before you go

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

Visit in the late afternoon to witness the crocodile feeding, a truly spectacular sight.
Bring some poultry to feed the crocodiles outside of their normal feeding times for a closer look.
Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Presidential Palace for a comprehensive Yamoussoukro experience.

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The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro

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Palais présidentiel de Yamoussoukro

Boigny Félix Houphouët Foundation for Peace Research

Grand mosquée de Yamoussoukro

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Getting There

Walking

From the Presidential Palace, Lac aux Caïmans is easily accessible on foot. Exit the palace grounds and walk along the road bordering the palace. The lake will be visible on your left, with clear signage marking the entrance. The walk is short and straightforward.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Yamoussoukro. A short taxi ride from the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace to Lac aux Caïmans will cost approximately 1000-1500 CFA. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Discover more about Lac aux Caïmans

Lac aux Caïmans, or Crocodile Lake, is a unique and captivating attraction in Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Côte d'Ivoire. Situated near the Presidential Palace, this artificial lake is home to a significant population of Nile crocodiles. These crocodiles are considered sacred by the local people, adding a layer of cultural significance to the site.The lake was created in the 1950s, and the first crocodiles were gifted to the first President of Côte d'Ivoire, Félix Houphouët-Boigny, in 1967. Over time, the collection grew, with some crocodiles and alligators gifted by Presidents from Mali and Madagascar. Today, the lake houses over 200 caimans, along with a smaller number of crocodiles and alligators. Despite the name, the animals in the lake are Nile Crocodiles.Visitors can witness these impressive creatures up close, observing their behavior and basking in the sun. Feeding time is a particularly popular spectacle, usually occurring in the late afternoon. Some visitors bring food to entice the crocodiles closer to the shore, offering a thrilling photo opportunity. The experience offers a unique blend of wildlife viewing and cultural immersion.While in Yamoussoukro, a visit to Lac aux Caïmans can be combined with other attractions, such as the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace and the Presidential Palace.