What national parks are there in Ivory Coast?

Taï in the south-west, the largest primary rainforest in West Africa; Comoé in the north-east, the largest protected area in the region; Banco inside Abidjan; Azagny near Grand-Lahou; and Mont Nimba on the Guinea border. Taï, Comoé and Nimba are UNESCO world heritage sites.

Can you see chimpanzees in Ivory Coast?

Yes, in Taï National Park. Visits are by permit and with a guide and involve walking in dense forest; sightings are never guaranteed.

Do you need a permit for national parks in Ivory Coast?

For Taï and Comoé yes, together with a guide, arranged in advance through the park authority. Banco near Abidjan is straightforward to visit.

When is the best time for wildlife in Ivory Coast?

The dry season: November to March in the south, December to April in the north.

Is Ivory Coast good for safari?

Not in the East African sense. The main parks are forest rather than open plain. Comoé, with savanna and large mammals, is the exception.

ElfenbeinküsteTravel Guide

Request a quote

Home · Nature

Nature and national parks in Ivory Coast.

Ivory Coast holds the largest remaining block of primary rainforest in West Africa, the biggest protected area in the region, mountains above 1,700 metres, and a coastline of lagoons and empty bays — and almost none of it sees visitors. This page covers the parks worth the effort, what you realistically see, and what has to be arranged in advance, because most of it cannot be improvised.

Aerial view of dense primary rainforest along a wide river

Primary rainforest along the river

Parks need permits and planning

Taï and Comoé both require a permit and a guide, arranged in advance through the park authority — you cannot turn up at the gate and go in. Access roads are tracks and need an SUV. Tell us early if a park is on your list; it is the one part of a trip here that takes real preparation.