The ultimate guide to: Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast, a vibrant country nestled on the west coast of Africa, has been immortalized in numerous films, TV shows, and books. Its bustling cities, lush landscapes, and rich culture have provided a captivating backdrop for a wide array of narratives. This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to the unforgettable locations in Ivory Coast that have graced the silver screen, small screen, and printed page.

Top 10 Famous Films Shot in Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast, with its diverse landscapes and cultural richness, has served as a setting for many memorable films. The following are ten notable movies that were shot in Ivory Coast:

1. Black and White in Color (1976): This satirical war film, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, offers a poignant commentary on the absurdity of war, set against the backdrop of Ivory Coast’s lush landscapes.
2. Dangerous Game (1988): This action-adventure film showcases the exotic urban and natural settings of Ivory Coast, adding a unique African flavor to its thrilling narrative.
3. The Naked Prey (1965): While primarily filmed in South Africa, some scenes were shot in Ivory Coast, showcasing the country’s stunning savannahs and dense forests.
4. Cí´te d’Ivoire (2013): This documentary delves into the complex political and social landscape of Ivory Coast, providing a raw and compelling view of the country.
5. Run (2014): The first Ivorian film to be selected at the Cannes Film Festival, this drama uses the city of Abidjan and the rural areas of Ivory Coast to weave a tale of rebellion and identity.
6. Adanggaman (2000): This historical drama, set in the late 17th century, showcases the traditional villages and stunning landscapes of Ivory Coast.
7. Bal Poussií¨re (1989): Shot in Ivory Coast’s rural areas, this comedy-drama highlights the country’s traditional customs and lifestyle.
8. Visages de femmes (1985): This drama explores the lives of women in modern Ivorian society, using Abidjan and its surroundings as its setting.
9. Wariko, le gros lot (1994): Set in Abidjan, this drama-comedy film provides a glimpse into the city’s vibrant street life and culture.
10. Bouka (1988): This film, shot in the forests of Ivory Coast, tells a touching story of a young boy and his elephant friend.

These films not only offer a cinematic journey through Ivory Coast’s diverse settings but also provide insights into its history, culture, and societal norms.

5 TV Shows Set in Ivory Coast

The vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes of Ivory Coast have also found their way to the small screen. Here are five TV shows that capture the essence of this West African nation:

1. “Cacao” (2014-present): This Ivorian telenovela, set in a cocoa plantation, offers a dramatic look at the country’s cocoa industry and rural life.
2. “Ma Famille” (2002-2007): This popular comedy series, set and filmed in Abidjan, provides a humorous and touching portrayal of a modern Ivorian family.
3. “Teenagers” (2018-present): This web series, also set in Abidjan, explores the lives of Ivorian teenagers, offering a contemporary and relatable depiction of young life in Ivory Coast.
4. “Invisibles” (2018): Filmed in Abidjan, this crime drama series delves into the city’s underworld, showcasing its darker side.
5. “Class A” (2018-present): This reality show, based in the city of Yamoussoukro, follows the lives of students at a prestigious Ivorian school.

These TV series offer viewers a taste of the diverse narratives and settings that Ivory Coast has to offer, from its bustling cities to its rural landscapes.

5 Animated Films Set in Ivory Coast

Animation has also found a home in Ivory Coast, with several films capturing the country’s vibrant spirit and rich culture. Here are five animated films that bring the Ivorian experience to life:

1. “Aya de Yopougon” (2013): Based on a popular graphic novel, this film offers a colorful and lively depiction of life in the Yopougon neighborhood of Abidjan.
2. “Soundiata Keí¯ta: Le réveil du lion” (2004): This historical film tells the story of the founder of the Mali Empire, utilizing traditional African art styles.
3. “Pokou, Princesse Ashanti” (2013): This film recounts the legend of the Ashanti princess who founded the Baoulé tribe in Ivory Coast.
4. “Kirikou et la sorcií¨re” (1998): Although not exclusively set in Ivory Coast, this French animated film draws heavily from West African folk tales and aesthetics.
5. “Les contes de la baobab” (2002): This French-Ivorian animated series presents various African legends, reflecting the continent’s rich oral tradition.

These animated films offer a unique and engaging way to explore Ivory Coast’s history, culture, and folklore.

Famous Books Set in Ivory Coast: Classic and Contemporary

Ivory Coast’s cultural richness and historical significance have inspired numerous authors. Here are three classic and three contemporary books that capture the spirit of the country:

Classic:

1. “Aya of Yop City” by Marguerite Abouet and Clément Oubrerie: This graphic novel series offers a vivid portrayal of life in 1970s Abidjan, filled with humor and heart.
2. “The Bitter Side of Sweet” by Tara Sullivan: This compelling novel explores the dark side of Ivory Coast’s cocoa industry through the eyes of two child laborers.
3. “The Suns of Independence” by Ahmadou Kourouma: This classic of Francophone African literature provides a critical view of post-independence Ivory Coast.

Contemporary:

1. “Coconut Revolution” by Kopano Matlwa: This novel explores the clash of traditional African values and Western influences in modern-day Ivory Coast.
2. “Queen Pokou” by Veronique Tadjo: This book retells the Ashanti legend of Queen Pokou, the founder of the Baoulé tribe in Ivory Coast.
3. “In the Company of Men” by Véronique Tadjo: This recent novel provides a poignant account of the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, including Ivory Coast.

From historical tales to contemporary narratives, these books offer a literary journey through Ivory Coast’s multifaceted persona.

Exploring Ivory Coast Filming Locations – Where to Go

Ivory Coast, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, has served as a filming location for numerous movies and TV shows. Here are some key filming locations in Ivory Coast you must visit:

1. Abidjan: As the economic capital of Ivory Coast, Abidjan has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. Key locations include the Plateau district, the Treichville market, and the Saint Paul’s Cathedral.
2. Yamoussoukro: The political capital of Ivory Coast is known for its grandiose structures, such as the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, the largest church in the world.
3. Grand-Bassam: This historic town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has served as a backdrop for various period films.
4. Man: Known for its beautiful landscapes, the city of Man and its surroundings have been utilized in films showcasing Ivory Coast’s natural beauty.
5. Aboisso: The cocoa plantations around Aboisso serve as settings in films exploring the country’s cocoa industry.

Exploring these filming locations offers a unique blend of entertainment and sightseeing, providing an engaging way to interact with the country’s film heritage.

Where to Sleep in Ivory Coast: Cheap and Luxury

Ivory Coast offers a diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxurious hotels.

Budget:

1. Ivoire Guest House, Abidjan: This budget-friendly guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
2. Hotel La Coccinelle, Yamoussoukro: A budget hotel offering basic amenities and easy access to local attractions.
3. Hotel Mon Afrik, Bouake: This affordable hotel provides clean rooms and a central location.

Luxury:

1. Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire: This luxury hotel offers opulent rooms, two swimming pools, and a cinema.
2. Pullman Abidjan: Located in the Plateau district, this hotel offers high-end accommodations with stunning views of the lagoon.
3. Radisson Blu Hotel, Abidjan Airport: This hotel offers luxury amenities, including a fitness center and a rooftop bar with panoramic views.

Whether you prefer budget-friendly hostels or luxurious hotels, Ivory Coast offers accommodations to suit every type of traveler.

Where to Eat in Ivory Coast: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury

Ivory Coast’s food scene offers a range of options, from street food to fine dining.

Budget:

1. Chez Clarisse, Abidjan: This local eatery is famous for its grilled fish and chicken.
2. Maquis le Gouro, Abidjan: Known for its Ivorian dishes, this restaurant offers a taste of local cuisine at reasonable prices.
3. Chez Aissatou, Yamoussoukro: This roadside stall serves delicious local dishes, including attiéké and braised chicken.

Luxury:

1. Le Grand Large, Abidjan: This high-end restaurant offers a fusion of French and Ivorian cuisine with a stunning view of the lagoon.
2. Ivoire Golf Club, Abidjan: Offering a blend of international and Ivorian dishes, this restaurant also boasts a view of the city’s only golf course.
3. La Cascade, Yamoussoukro: Located in Hotel President, this restaurant serves a variety of gourmet dishes in an elegant setting.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet connoisseur, Ivory Coast’s culinary scene has something to offer for everyone.

Detailed Itinerary: Exploring Ivory Coast’s Filming Locatí¬ions Day by Day

Here’s a five-day itinerary for exploring the cinematic landscapes of Ivory Coast:

Day 1: Abidjan – Start your tour in Abidjan, visiting the Treichville market and the Plateau district. Enjoy a meal at Chez Clarisse, known for its grilled fish.

Day 2: Grand-Bassam – Explore the historic town of Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit its colonial-era buildings and the Costume Museum.

Day 3: Yamoussoukro – Visit Yamoussoukro and its grandiose structures, such as the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. Dine at La Cascade in Hotel President.

Day 4: Man – Head to the city of Man and its stunning landscapes. Visit the impressive waterfall, La Cascade, and the sacred forest with its famous hanging bridges.

Day 5: Aboisso – Spend your last day in the cocoa plantations around Aboisso. Visit a local plantation and learn about the cocoa production process.

Local Cryptid Legends and Curiosities about Ivory Coast’s Film Industry

Ivory Coast is rich in folklore and legends, which have been integrated into its film industry. Local myths speak of mythical creatures such as the Ninki Nanka, a dragon-like being said to dwell in the lagoons. There are also tales of Mami Wata, a water spirit known for her beauty. These local legends add a layer of intrigue to the country’s cinematic landscape.

The film industry in Ivory Coast, known as “Nollywood,” is one of the largest in Africa. It’s also a significant cultural exporter, with Ivorian films being showcased in international festivals. Despite limited resources, the industry has produced acclaimed films, demonstrating the country’s resilience and creativity.

Hidden Gems in Ivory Coast

Beyond its famous landmarks, Ivory Coast also harbors some hidden gems:

1. The Banco National Park: Located in Abidjan, this park is a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling city.
2. Comoe National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is home to a diverse range of wildlife.
3. The Artisanal Village of Abidjan: This village offers a wide array of handmade Ivorian crafts, providing a glimpse into the country’s artistic heritage.

These lesser-known spots offer a unique perspective of Ivory Coast, beyond its well-known tourist attractions.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Ivory Coast

Getting around Ivory Coast can be an adventure in itself. Public transportation options include taxis and minibuses known as gbakas. For longer distances, inter-city buses and trains are available. Car rentals are also an option, especially for more remote locations. However, road conditions can be challenging, and it’s advisable to hire a local driver.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Ivory Coast

For international travelers, a valid passport and a visa are required to enter Ivory Coast. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is also required. It’s advisable to check the latest entry requirements from the official government website or your local embassy before your trip.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Ivory Coast Cinematic Tour Guide

Ivory Coast, with its vibrant culture and diverse landscapes, offers a unique travel experience for film buffs and casual tourists alike. Whether you’re exploring the bustling city of Abidjan, the historic town of Grand-Bassam, or the stunning landscapes of Man, you’ll be stepping into a world that has been beautifully captured in films, TV shows, and books. So pack your bags, bring your adventurous spirit, and get ready for your ultimate Ivory Coast cinematic tour.