The Best Traditional Arts and Crafts Markets in Ivory Coast

By Stella Tessa | Update on: Dec 06, 2024

Ivory Coast boasts a rich cultural history and vibrant artistic traditions. From traditional music and dance to intricate beading and woodcarving, its diverse craftsmanship reflects the dynamic spirit of its people. Artisan markets across the country offer a treasure trove of unique creations, each with deep cultural significance—a must-visit for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in local artistry.

This guide showcases the best traditional arts and crafts markets in Ivory Coast, perfect for both tourists and locals. Discover unique creations, rich cultural experiences, and practical tips for exploring these vibrant markets on a budget while soaking in their creative atmosphere.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Ivory Coast Art Markets?
- What To Look For
Top Traditional Arts and Crafts Markets In Ivory Coast Art
Tips for Travelers Who Visit Traditional Ivory Coast Art Markets

Why Visit Ivory Coast Art Markets?

Ivory Coast’s art markets offer a unique glimpse into local culture, showcasing traditional crafts like textiles, pottery, jewelry, and wooden carvings. Each piece reflects the region’s rich artistic heritage.

Shopping here provides access to one-of-a-kind souvenirs, from handcrafted masks to vibrant fabrics, perfect as gifts or keepsakes. Beyond shopping, these markets serve as lively social hubs where travelers can engage with artisans, learn about their techniques, and appreciate the cultural stories behind their creations.

Art markets are often bustling with energy, featuring not only shopping but also cultural performances such as music and dance. This lively atmosphere makes for an enjoyable outing where visitors can soak in the sounds and sights of Ivorian culture.

What To Look For

Ivory Coast's art markets offer a variety of things catering to diverse preferences.

Masks and sculptures: Each artwork conveys a tale, sometimes based on tribal traditions.
Textiles: Look for handwoven kente cloth or batik fabric, which are ideal for clothes or home design.
Jewelry: One-of-a-kind creations created from repurposed metals or natural materials.
Paintings: Contemporary art influenced by Ivorian culture creates attractive wall decor.

Continue reading to get the list of Ivory Coast art markets.

Top Traditional Arts and Crafts Markets In Ivory Coast Art

The Ivory Coast is well known for its handicrafts and traditional art. Ivory Coast's artisan markets are a veritable gold mine of one-of-a-kind and genuine goods, and they give tourists a special chance to interact with local craftspeople and discover more about the country's culture. The following Ivory Coast art fairs are among the greatest and shouldn't be missed by art lovers.

Treichville Market

Location: center of Abidjan

Treichville Market is the ideal place to discover authentic Ivory Coast art. The market is notable for its exquisite fabrics, beading, and woodcarvings, all of which are handcrafted by regional craftsmen. Visitors may observe as artists construct their masterpieces and even try their hand at producing traditional art of the country.

The abundance of street art visible throughout the market's passageways is one of its distinctive features. Visitors may take in the market's bustling ambiance while admiring the colorful murals and graffiti art.

Visitors can expect to find a wide variety of traditional handicrafts when shopping, such as wooden masks, statues, and jewelry. The market is particularly noted for its vivid fabrics, which are commonly used to construct traditional apparel and accessories. Negotiating with merchants is common, so make sure to get the best deal possible.

Must buy items at Treichville Market

Woodcarvings: From statues to masks, the Treichville Market is awash in elaborate woodcarvings that display the Ivory Coast's artisans' remarkable artistry.
Beadwork: Beadwork is another well-liked skill at Treichville Market, where customers can purchase everything from complex tapestries to beaded jewelry.
Textiles: There is a range of textiles available at the market, including handmade textiles and traditional attire.

Several traditional Ivory Coast art crafts in the markets

Several traditional Ivory Coast art crafts in the markets

Marcory Market

Location: Marcory Neighborhood, Abidjan

Probably one of the best places for people looking for traditional Ivory Coast handcrafts is Marcory Market. The vibrant batik fabrics in this market, which are hand-dyed using conventional methods, are both well done. Visitors can go through a selection of items such as apparel, accouterments, and home furnishings manufactured from these textiles.

The profusion of Ivory Coast street art that can be observed around Marcory Market is one of its distinguishing qualities. The vivid mood of the market is further enhanced by the murals and graffiti art that cover the market's walls.

What to buy in Marcory Market?

The following traditional crafts are among those offered at Marcory Market:

Batik fabric: Ivory Coast is known for its distinctive batik fabric, which is available at Marcory Market in a broad range of hues and designs.
Wood carvings, such as statues and masks, are also available at the market.
Jewelry: The large range of handmade pieces available to visitors includes beaded necklaces and bracelets.

Grand-Bassam Market

Grand-Bassam Market is a fantastic option if you're searching for a market with a more vintage vibe. The market, which is famed for its antique and vintage wares, is situated in the country of Ivory Coast's former colonial capital. A variety of colonial-era furniture, jewelry, and other antiques are available for visitors to peruse, all of which provide a window into Ivory Coast's history. For people who are interested in both history and culture, the market is also a great place to find a range of traditional handicrafts, such as pottery and woven baskets.

Grand-Bassam Market is a good place to purchase the following Ivory Coast handcrafts:

Pottery: A range of handcrafted pottery, including vases, bowls, and other ornamental objects, are available at the market.
Woven baskets: A variety of woven baskets, from those used for carrying groceries to those used for food storage, are available for visitors to choose from.
Antique furniture: The market is renowned for its collection of furniture from the colonial era, which includes chairs, tables, and other items.

Fantastic option of African fabrics in Abidjan for the Ivory Coast art scene

Fantastic option of African fabrics in Abidjan for the Ivory Coast art scene

Abobo Market

Visitors can fully immerse themselves in the modern art scene of the Ivory Coast at Abobo Market. The market is a hive of artistic activity, brimming with colorful street art and modern goods created by regional designers. The market offers a huge selection of locally produced handmade goods, such as apparel, jewelry, and purses. At Abobo Market, tourists may also find conventional handicrafts such as the following in addition to contemporary artwork:

Beadwork: There are several elaborate beadwork items available in the market, including bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.
Woodcarvings: Those who visit can find a wide range of hand-carved wooden sculptures, masks, and figures that are ideal for collectors or anyone who want to incorporate a bit of Ivory Coast culture into their home decor.
Batik fabrics: Made by hand-dying with conventional methods, batik textiles are also available at Abobo Market. Tablecloths, garments, and other textiles can be made from fabric.

Tips for Travelers Who Visit Traditional Ivory Coast Art Markets

If you plan ahead of time, shopping in Ivory Coast's art markets can be affordable.

Haggle Smartly: Negotiating is part of the culture. Begin by offering half of the asking amount and settling in the middle.
Visit during off-peak hours. Early mornings and weekdays frequently provide the best discounts and fewer crowds.
Use shared taxis (woro-woro) or minibuses (gbaka) to save money on transportation.
Carry small bills: Vendors prefer exact change, which makes transactions go more smoothly.
Many markets are bordered by affordable restaurants where you may refuel between shopping trips. It's your chance to experience Ivorian street food. Popular choices include:

Alloco: Fried plantains paired with a spicy sauce.
Attiéké: Fermented cassava is commonly served with grilled fish.
Bissap Juice: is a pleasant hibiscus drink ideal for hot days.

Traditional white and blue cloth for Ivory Coast handcrafts

Traditional white and blue cloth for Ivory Coast handcrafts

Exploring the Ivory Coast art markets is a pleasant experience for every traveler. These dynamic hubs provide an opportunity to connect with local culture, bring home unique items, and support the livelihoods of skilled artists. Plan your trip to the Ivory Coast Art Markets today! Before departing on your journey, examine the visa requirements. Most travelers require a visa to enter Ivory Coast. Applying Ivory Coast e-visa is the best approach to entering the nation. Contact us for more information!

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