Côte d’Ivoire flag

Côte d’Ivoire Travel Safety Guide

Last updated: 2026-03-13

What are the emergency numbers in Côte d’Ivoire?

Côte d’Ivoire emergency numbers: 110 (Police), 185 (Ambulance), 180 (Fire Department).

wayGard widgets for Côte d’Ivoire showing emergency numbers and currency conversion

Get these widgets on your iPhone Home Screen

Download on the App Store

Is Côte d’Ivoire safe for travelers?

Violent crime in Abidjan can include armed street hold-ups and armed break-ins. Do not treat big-city movement casually, especially after dark.

Risk is much higher near the borders with Burkina Faso and Mali, where terrorism and kidnapping risk drive stronger official warnings.

What health risks should travelers know about in Côte d’Ivoire?

Heat, mosquitoes, and uneven medical capacity are bigger practical issues than many first-time visitors plan for.

What laws should tourists know about in Côte d’Ivoire?

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter.

Be cautious with photography around military, police, or government sites, and keep documents accessible.

How is transportation in Côte d’Ivoire?

Road travel deserves caution because of checkpoints, cash handling, and the possibility of crime after dark.

What should travelers know about money in Côte d’Ivoire?

Currency is West African CFA franc (XOF). Cash is still important, and you must declare any foreign currency when entering. There is also a local cash limit for CFA francs.

What practical info do travelers need for Côte d’Ivoire?

Plug types are C and E. Voltage is 230V.

City Specific Info

Abidjan

Abidjan is where most travellers spend time, but it rewards more caution around nightlife, cash, and after-dark transport than many business visitors initially expect.

Which embassies are in Côte d’Ivoire?

Mostly in Abidjan, Cocody.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the emergency number in Côte d’Ivoire?

In Côte d’Ivoire, you can reach police at 110, ambulance at 185, fire services at 180. These numbers work from any phone, including mobile phones without a local SIM card.

Is Côte d’Ivoire safe for tourists?

Violent crime in Abidjan can include armed street hold-ups and armed break-ins. Do not treat big-city movement casually, especially after dark.

What currency is used in Côte d’Ivoire?

Currency is West African CFA franc (XOF). Cash is still important, and you must declare any foreign currency when entering. There is also a local cash limit for CFA francs.

What health precautions should I take in Côte d’Ivoire?

Heat, mosquitoes, and uneven medical capacity are bigger practical issues than many first-time visitors plan for.

What laws should tourists know about in Côte d’Ivoire?

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter.

Get wayGard for iOS

Get all of Côte d’Ivoire's safety info offline.

Download on the App Store
Download on the App Store