Yamoussoukro - Largest Cathedral in the World (Francais or English)

Abidjan , Côte d'Ivoire

Yamoussoukro - Largest Cathedral in the World (Francais or English)

Active

(4 reviews)

10h - 11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You choose the day and time: Abidjan to Yamoussoukro (en FRANCAIS ou ANGLAIS). We leave Abidjan at 700 and drive 2.5 hours to Yamoussoukro where we will take a guided tour of the basilica, a modern marvel. We will check out the Foundation for Peace and see the outside of beloved Ivoirian President Felix Houphouet-Boigny's presidential palace and its iconic crocodile moat. Yamoussoukro has been the political capital of Cote d'Ivoire since 1983, and we'll learn why! We will eat lunch then head back to Abidjan around 1400 to arrive at approximately 1700. Sunday tour times are different.

The cost includes car, driver*, and tour guide. The tip for the guide at the Basilica is not included and will be about 10,000-20,000 CFA. We can add the option to go to delicious restaurant; the cost of lunch is not included which will be about 20,000 CFA per person. If you have your own car, the price for the tour and guide is just 100 euros.

Contactez-moi pour une visite de Yamoussoukro en francais!

Available options

Yamoussoukro - Day Trip!

Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

We'll discover the history, architecture, and secrets of this modern church - the largest basilica in the world!

We'll see the palace from the outside, including the moat with enormous crocodiles!

What's not included

We will have lunch at a traditional Ivoirian restaurant!

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wheelchair accessible

Meeting point

We will start the tour in Abidjan and drive 2.5 hours to Yamoussoukro. Call me or email me to set up the pick up location and time - thanks. Josiane (Abidjan.walks@gmail.com)

About Abidjan

Abidjan is the economic capital of Côte d'Ivoire and a vibrant coastal city known for its bustling markets, modern architecture, and lively nightlife. Often compared to a tropical Manhattan, it offers a unique blend of African tradition and French colonial influence.

Top Attractions

Plateau District

The Plateau is the central business district of Abidjan, featuring modern skyscrapers, colonial-era buildings, and bustling streets. It's the heart of the city's economic and political activity.

Historical/Architecture Half day to full day Free to explore; costs vary for specific attractions

Banco National Park

One of the last remaining green spaces in Abidjan, Banco National Park offers a lush escape with hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and scenic views.

Nature Half day Low (500-1,000 XOF entry fee, ~0.75-1.50 USD)

Cocody Municipal Stadium

Home to the national football team, this stadium is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. It hosts major football matches and other sporting events.

Sports Varies by event Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Garba

A traditional Ivorian dish made with mashed yams or plantains, often served with a spicy sauce and fish or meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available (without meat/fish)

Attiéké

A fermented cassava dish, similar to couscous, often served with grilled fish, meat, or a spicy sauce.

Snack Vegetarian (can be made without meat/fish)

Kedjenou

A slow-cooked chicken dish with vegetables, cooked in a sealed pot to retain moisture and flavor.

Dinner Contains meat (chicken)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Banco National Park Water sports in Assinie Beach Beach relaxation in Grand-Bassam Spa treatments in Cocody Exploring the Plateau District Visiting local markets Swimming Boating

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the dry season, offering the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is less humid, and the skies are generally clear.

24-32°C 75-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: Dioula, Baoulé, Other local languages
English: Limited (English is not widely spoken; French is the primary language of business and government)

Currency

West African CFA franc (XOF)

Time Zone

GMT+1

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution (Abidjan has a mixed safety profile, with some areas being safe and others posing risks. Exercise caution and stay informed about local conditions.)

Abidjan is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas. Be cautious with valuables and use reputable transportation services.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious with valuables
• Use reputable transportation services

Getting there

By air

Port Bouet Airport • 15 km from city center

By bus

Gare Routière de la Rue des Martyrs, Gare Routière de Treichville

Getting around

Public transport

Gbaka buses are the most common form of public transport in Abidjan. They are colorful and often crowded, with fixed routes and stops.

Taxis

Available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Plateau Cocody Treichville

Day trips

Grand-Bassam

40 km from Abidjan • Half day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Grand-Bassam is a historic coastal town known for its colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Assinie Beach

80 km from Abidjan • Full day

A beautiful beach resort town known for its white sand beaches, clear waters, and luxury accommodations. It's a popular destination for relaxation and water activities.

Festivals

Fetichist Festival • January (dates vary) Abidjan Art Festival • Annual (dates vary)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in French to help with communication and show respect for the local culture.
Carry small denominations of local currency for tips, markets, and small purchases.
Use reputable transportation services and avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.
Be cautious with valuables and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself, especially in crowded areas.
Research local conditions and stay informed about any travel advisories or safety concerns.