Alternative City Tour
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our volunteer guides takes you to meet the merchants and artisans of the neighborhood, to discover it in another facet! The plateau is the business district of Abidjan, nicknamed the "Ivorian Manhattan". But although it is the administrative and financial center of the country, it also has incredible but often overlooked tourist assets.
Available options
Alternative City Tour Plateau
Administrative City Tour
Starting point:<br/>National Library, Bibliothèque Nationale, Bd Carde, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
What's included
Bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
City Center of Abidjan
2
La mosquée du Plateau est l’un des édifices religieux les plus imposants et les plus modernes du pays. Sa capacité d’accueil (9500 places), son amphithéâtre, ses bureaux, son parking ultra modernes, de même que le minaret long de soixante-cinq mètres, en font l’une des mosquées les plus belles de la sous-région.
Available languages
Written guide
EN
Guide guide
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
5 reviews
5★
3
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
14 reviews
5★
12
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
A l'entrée de la bibliothèque (dehors)
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
