What animals live in Ivory Coast?

Forest elephants, chimpanzees, pygmy hippopotamus, several monkey species, buffalo, antelope, hippopotamus, crocodiles, manatees, sea turtles and over seven hundred bird species.

Can you go on safari in Ivory Coast?

Not in the East African sense. Most protected areas are rainforest where animals are heard more than seen. Comoé National Park is the exception.

Where can you see chimpanzees in Ivory Coast?

In Taï National Park in the south-west, which holds long-studied groups known for using stone tools. Permit, guide and a long walk are required.

Are there elephants in Ivory Coast?

Yes, forest elephants in Taï and Comoé and a population at Azagny. They are shy and tracks are more commonly seen than the animals.

Can you bring wildlife souvenirs home from Ivory Coast?

Not if made from protected species. Ivory, skins, tortoiseshell and certain hardwoods are covered by CITES and are confiscated by European customs.

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Wildlife in Ivory Coast: what lives here and where to see it.

Forest elephants, chimpanzees, pygmy hippopotamus, crocodiles, manatees and over seven hundred bird species — the country is biologically rich and almost entirely unvisited. It is also honest to say that forest wildlife is hard to see. This page sets out what is actually here, where your chances are best, and what you should not expect.

Group of antelope on a path at the edge of the forest

Antelope at the forest edge

Forest hides its animals

The great parks here are rainforest, not open savanna. In Taï you walk for hours through primary forest and hear a great deal more than you see. That is normal and it is not a failing of the guide. Comoé in the north-east, with savanna and gallery forest, is the one place where large mammals are seen with any regularity — best in the dry season, when they gather at water.