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Palais Présidentiel de Yamoussoukro: A Symbol of Ivorian Ambition

Witness the grandeur of Côte d'Ivoire's presidential palace in Yamoussoukro, a symbol of national pride and architectural ambition.

The Palais Présidentiel de Yamoussoukro, the official residence of the President of the Ivory Coast, is a striking symbol of the nation's political aspirations and a testament to modern Ivorian architecture. Although internal tours are not generally available, the exterior and surrounding grounds offer visitors a glimpse into the grandeur and ambition of the Ivorian state.

A brief summary to Palais présidentiel de Yamoussoukro

  • RP63+2Q5, Yamoussoukro, CI

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography of the palace exterior.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Lac des Caïmans (Crocodile Lake) and the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Paix.
  • Respect the privacy of the grounds, as it is an active government building.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Paix, the Palais Présidentiel is approximately 4km away. Walking would take around 45-60 minutes. Head east on Boulevard Houphouët-Boigny, then turn right onto Avenue Jacques Aka. Continue straight until you reach the Palais. There are no entrance fees to walk around the exterior of the Palais.

  • Public Transport

    Local taxis (identified by their white color with green and orange stripes in Yamoussoukro) are readily available. A short taxi ride from the city center or the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Paix to the Palais Présidentiel typically costs between 500 and 1500 CFA francs, but it's advisable to negotiate the price before the ride.

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Discover more about Palais présidentiel de Yamoussoukro

Located in Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Côte d'Ivoire, the Palais Présidentiel stands as an emblem of the country's history and culture. Designed by architect Olivier-Clément Cacoub, the palace was commissioned by Félix Houphouët-Boigny, the first president of the Ivory Coast. The six-story building is surrounded by residences for staff and family, all enclosed within a 22-kilometer perimeter. While the palace is not typically open to the public, the exterior showcases a blend of modern and traditional Ivorian architectural elements. The grounds feature manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and, notably, two life-size bélier (ram) statues at the entrance, representing Houphouët-Boigny's totem. The site is bordered by a sacred crocodile pond (Lac des Caïmans), adding a unique cultural element to the presidential grounds. The palace also includes a chapel that overlooks the tomb of Félix Houphouët-Boigny. Visiting the Palais Présidentiel offers insight into the vision of Côte d'Ivoire's first president and the country's aspirations for unity and progress. Although Yamoussoukro is less bustling than Abidjan, its unique blend of monumental architecture and tranquil landscapes makes it a worthwhile destination.

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