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Information Pays> Afrique de l’Ouest > Côte d'Ivoire Travel
Advice Country Description Cote d'Ivoire (aka Ivory Coast) is a developing country on the west coast of Africa. Tourism facilities in Abidjan, the capital, are good. Outside Abidjan, accommodations are limited in quality and availability. The ocean currents along the coast are extremely strong and treacherous and result in numerous drownings each year. Entry Requirements A passport is required. Travelers can obtain the latest information and details from the nearest Cote d'Ivoire embassy or consulate. Safety/Security Travellers should be aware of the risk of armed burglaries, and attacks on pedestrians and motorists. Do not resist armed robbers, refrain from wearing expensive jewellery and avoid carrying large sums of liquid cash but "always have something with which to calm the aggressor (30,000 CFA for example)" and thus avoid any violent reaction. In the run-up to the year 2000 elections, periodic political rallies and demonstrations are expected to occur throughout Cote d'Ivoire and may have the potential to turn unruly. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid political rallies and street demonstrations and maintain security awareness at all times. The Liberia/Cote d'Ivoire border region is unsettled and potentially dangerous. Travelers may encounter roadblocks, armed military personnel, and vehicle searches. Information On Crime Crime in Abidjan has increased over the past several years and is now at a critical level. Street crimes of the "grab and run" variety, as well as pickpocketing in crowded areas, are widespread. Armed carjackings, robberies of businesses, and home invasions are on the rise, and are often targeted at expatriate residents who appear to be wealthy. Armed criminals have used force when faced with resistance. Travelers displaying jewelry and carrying cameras are especially at risk. Travelers have found it useful to carry limited amounts of cash and only photocopies of key documents. It is particularly dangerous to visit the Treichville, Adjame, Abobo, and Plateau business districts after dark. The DeGaulle and Houphouet-Boigny bridges, which cross the lagoon in Abidjan, are dangerous areas for pedestrians, even in the daytime. Many hotels, restaurants, nightclubs and supermarkets provide security guards to protect clients and their vehicles. Travellers should use caution when traveling outside Abidjan, especially through the central western region of Cote d'Ivoire, where an increased incidence of crime has been reported. Traveling in that region at night is discouraged. Travellers to the central western region and other rural areas of Cote d'Ivoire are urged to contact the their local embassy in Abidjan for the latest travel and security information. Business fraud stemming from Nigerian scam operations targets foreigners, and poses a danger of financial loss and physical harm. Persons who are contemplating business deals in Cote d'Ivoire with individuals promoting investment in Nigeria, especially the Central Bank of Nigeria or the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, are strongly urged to check with their local Department of Commerce before providing any information, or making financial commitments, or traveling to Cote d'Ivoire. The loss or theft abroad of a passport should be reported immediately to the local police and to the nearest embassy or consulate. Medical Facilities Medical facilities in Cote d'Ivoire are adequate in Abidjan, but limited elsewhere. Many medicines are unavailable. Doctors and hospitals take only cash payment for health care services. Medical Insurance Please check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation. Please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death. Traffic Safety & Road Conditions The information below concerning Cote d'Ivoire is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance. Safety of Public Transportation: Fair Automobile accidents are one of the greatest threats to the well-being of Americans in Cote d'Ivoire. Night driving is particularly hazardous due to poorly lit roads and vehicles. Direct or indirect requests for bribes from the police and other security officials are commonplace, especially at highway checkpoints and near Abidjan's Port Bouet Airport. Criminal Penalties Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe for similar offenses at home. Persons violating Ivoirian law, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Cote d'Ivoire are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Aviation Airline travel in West Africa is routinely overbooked; schedules are limited, and airline service is of varying quality. Prudent passengers get the required seat reconfirmation stamped on the ticket; ensure that they have emergency funds for food and lodging in the event of unexpected delays; and arrive at the airport at least two hours before the scheduled departure time. |
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