Travel Safety in Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

The security risks in Cote d'Ivoire vary according to the travel area and the profile of the traveller. Crime is a concern across the country. In the largest city, Abidjan, and the capital, Yamoussoukro, foreign nationals are directly targeted in petty crime incidents that have the potential to turn violent. Armed robberies are also common. This crime risk is mirrored in most other urban centres in the country, while armed banditry is a problem in rural areas, including on highways between major cities but especially in the regions of Dix-huit Montagnes, Haut-Sassandra, Moyen-Cavally, Bas-Sassandra and Zancan.

Cote d'Ivoire has been targeted in one major terrorist attack by extremist groups. Further attacks are possible, with Abidjan and the Denguele and Savanes regions (which border Mali) at an elevated threat. In areas that border Guinea and Liberia, there is an ongoing risk of conflict linked to inter-communal and ethnic tensions. Political instability is relatively common in Cote d'Ivoire. During periods of heightened political tension, there is a risk of conflict between rival groupings, and demonstrations (which are a common occurrence in major cities anyway) increase in intensity. There have been reports of kidnappings in the country, but these generally only target local nationals.

Medical facilities may be adequate in Abidjan and Yamoussoukro, but are very limited elsewhere.