Everything You Need To Know About Ivory Coast Capital

Ivory Coast's official capital, Yamoussoukro, is a city that perfectly captures the rich history, culture, and aspirations of the country. Although many people might only think of the nation's thriving economic hub, Abidjan, Yamoussoukro provides a singular window into the heart of Côte d'Ivoire. This article explores everything you need to know about the Ivory Coast capital, from its historical significance to its modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

What Is Ivory Coast Capital?

When people ask, "What is the capital of Ivory Coast?" the answer can be a bit surprising. Officially, the political capital of Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) is Yamoussoukro, a city chosen by the country's first president, Félix Houphouët-Boigny,  who envisioned transforming his birthplace into a symbol of national pride and unity.

However, the true heartbeat of the nation lies in Abidjan, the economic capital of the country. This is where you'll find government offices, multinational corporations, cultural institutions, and the majority of the population. Although Abidjan remains the de facto capital and the largest city, Yamoussoukro holds a special role in the country's governance and identity.

Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast capital, is a city that perfectly captures the rich history

The name of the Ivory Coast capital

Ivory Coast's capital name, Yamoussoukro, is derived from the local Baoulé language, which reflects the region's rich cultural legacy. Yamousso, the great-aunt of Houphouët-Boigny and a beloved queen, was honored with the city's name. The city's character is deepened by this connection to the past, which makes it a fascinating destination to visit the Ivory Coast capital.

Why does Ivory Coast have two capitals?

Yamoussoukro was chosen as the formal political Côte d'Ivoire capital in 1983. Nonetheless, because it is the nation's largest city and the hub of economic activity, Abidjan has been formally named the "economic capital" of the country. The dual capital system in Côte d'Ivoire can be traced back to the country's colonial history and the vision of its leaders.

About Features Of Ivory Coast Capital

Côte d'Ivoire capital, Yamoussoukro, is renowned for some unique attributes and features.

Geography and climate

Yamoussoukro has both dry and wet tropical weather. It experiences four distinct seasons: a long wet season from December to March, a brief wet season from August to September, a short wet season from October to November, and a long wet season from March to July. The typical high temperature ranges from between 30 to 34 degrees Celsius (86 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit) throughout the year, making for very steady weather overall.

Population

There are about 350,000 people living in Yamoussoukro. Like many cities in Africa, the population of the city is a mixture of individuals from many ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Economy

Although Yamoussoukro serves as the governmental capital of Ivory Coast, Abidjan, the nation's largest city, serves as the primary economic center. Yamoussoukro does engage in some economic activity, nevertheless.

The city's economy is mostly reliant on agriculture, and the surrounding area is a major producer of palm oil, coffee, and cocoa. The city is the hub of the nation's electricity infrastructure, housing a thermal power plant and a portion of the hydroelectric system. It also contains various industries, such as a sizable cotton mill.

Yamoussoukro has both dry and wet tropical weather

Top Places To Visit Ivory Coast Capital

Yamoussoukro offers a variety of sightseeing options and activities. The following are some of the top attractions, experiences, and things to do in Yamoussoukro.

Explore the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

A sight to behold is the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro. The Guinness World Records recognize that this majestic basilica is the largest "church" in the world, surpassing even St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican in terms of overall dimensions.

The Basilica is topped by a somewhat taller dome and is styled after St. Peter's. It was constructed between 1985 and 1989 at an estimated cost of $300 million, and it was a project begun by Félix Houphouët-Boigny, the first president of Ivory Coast.

An acres-long, carefully tended garden envelops the Basilica, echoing the serenity. The interior is as impressive, with 7,000 square meters of modern French tinted glass, Italian marble, and space for 18,000 worshippers. Whether or whether one is religious, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is a must-see because of its immense size and exquisite architecture.

Take a tour of the National Polytechnic Institute

The National Polytechnic Institute in Yamoussoukro is one of Ivory Coast's best educational institutions. The campus itself is remarkably large, with many buildings devoted to different academic disciplines. The institute's faculties offer courses in mining, agriculture, civil engineering, and other subjects with the goal of advancing science and technology.

Visit the local markets

A great approach to getting a sense of the everyday life and culture of the area is to visit the local markets in Yamoussoukro. Vendors offering anything from fresh vegetables and traditional meals to fabrics, apparel, and artisan items abound in these busy hubs.

You may fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of Ivory Coast daily life by strolling around the marketplaces. It is also a fantastic chance to try some of the regional cuisines, buy interesting mementos, and practice your haggling techniques.

Visiting the local markets in Yamoussoukro to get a sense of the  culture of the area

Grande Mosquée de Yamoussoukro

One testament to the Islamic faith in Ivory Coast is the Grande Mosquée de Yamoussoukro. The primary Muslim site of worship in the city is this mosque, which is situated in the Dioulakro area. For the Muslim community in the area, it is a significant site because of its tall minarets and large courtyard.

The mosque is renowned for its serene atmosphere, allowing travelers and devotees to contemplate quietly. For those who are interested in religious architecture, it offers a stunning backdrop with architecture that embodies traditional Islamic design characteristics.

Visit Kossou Lake

The largest manmade lake in Ivory Coast, Lake Kossou, is about an hour's drive from Yamoussoukro. When the Kossou Dam was built on the Bandama River in the 1970s, it produced a sizable reservoir that is now home to a variety of wildlife. This created the lake.

The lake is a wonderful place for a tranquil getaway from the city because it has stunning views. Tourists can take pleasure in fishing, bird watching, or just relaxing in the peaceful surroundings. There are a few small villages close by where you may find out more about Ivory Coast rural life.

FAQs About Ivory Coast Capital

What is the best time to visit Yamoussoukro?

The dry seasons, which run from December to March and August to September, are the ideal times to visit Yamoussoukro because of the better weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast capital, is a city that encapsulates the spirit of the nation

What is Yamoussoukro's traditional food and cuisine like?

Like the rest of Ivory Coast, Yamoussoukro has a rich and varied traditional cuisine that includes basics like rice, maize, yams, and plantains. Some typical foods include Aloko (fried plantains), Kédjénou (a stew cooked slowly), and Attiéké (grated cassava).

What souvenirs from Yamoussoukro may I bring home?

You may get a wide selection of distinctive souvenirs in Yamoussoukro to bring back home. This includes handcrafted jewelry, artwork, wooden sculptures, and traditional African apparel and textiles. One of the main exports from Ivory Coast is cocoa, which is also used to make items.

Learn more: The best Ivory Coast handicrafts to bring back home

How do I get to Yamoussoukro?

The city is accessible by road from Abidjan and other major cities in the country. There’s also an international airport, Yamoussoukro International Airport, just outside the city.

Is traveling to Yamoussoukro safe?

When planning your trip to the Ivory Coast capital, Yamoussoukro, it’s important to stay informed and take some sensible precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. While there may be occasional reports of crime and security concerns, many travelers visit Yamoussoukro without issues and enjoy its rich culture and stunning attractions.

There have also been incidences of armed robbery on the main route that connects Yamoussoukro with Bouaké and Korhogo. Therefore, if at all possible, stay away from these regions.

Conclusion

Yamoussoukro, the Côte d'Ivoire capital, is a city that encapsulates the spirit of the nation. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, it offers a unique experience for visitors.

If you're planning to visit Yamoussoukro, it's important to note that most nationalities require a visa to enter the country. The good news is that you can easily apply for an e-visa online, making the process quick and convenient.

To apply for your Ivory Coast e-visa, simply visit our official website and follow the straightforward steps. Once you've submitted your application and paid the visa fee, you can expect to receive your e-visa within 72 hours.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture of Yamoussoukro. From the awe-inspiring Basilica of Our Lady of Peace to the serene atmosphere of the city, there's so much to discover in this captivating capital.