Ivory Coast — Visas and Healthcare
Passports and Visas
All foreign passengers to the Ivory Coast must hold proof of arranged accommodation, return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter the Ivory Coast. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Americans
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
UK Nationals
British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
Canadians
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
Australians
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
South Africans
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
Irish Nationals
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
New Zealanders
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, and require a visa, to enter the Ivory Coast.
Healthcare
There are a variety of health risks prevalent in Ivory Coast, and a yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. Immigration officials will check this at the airport. Cholera is present in rural areas, and malaria is widespread even in urban areas. Typhoid and hepatitis A vaccinations are also recommended. Meningococcal vaccine is recommended for travel between November and June. HIV/AIDS is widespread and dengue fever can occur. Cases of bird flu have been confirmed in Abidjan, but no human infections have been reported. There is low risk to travelers, but as a precaution close contact with live birds should be avoided and all poultry and egg dishes should be well cooked. All water should be sterilized before use, and milk, which is unpasteurized, should be boiled. Avoid dairy products and ensure meat is well cooked and eaten hot. Fruit and vegetables should be cooked and/or peeled before consumption. Medical treatment in Abidjan is of reasonable standard, but private care is expensive, and facilities outside the major towns are very limited. Medical insurance with provision for repatriation is essential.
Safety
Since the highly-contested elections earlier in 2011, the political situation in Ivory Coast is volatile and demonstrations can occur unexpectedly between supporters of the rival presidential candidates. Take care in public places and avoid crowds. Most governments advise against unnecessary travel to the Ivory Coast at present due to the potential for unpredictable unrest. If, despite this advice visitors decide to travel to the Ivory Coast, careful personal security arrangements should be made due to high levels of anti-Western sentiment. Violent crime is on the increase, including armed break-ins, car jackings, muggings and hold-ups in restaurants. Evening rush hour on Abidjan's Charles de Gaulle Bridge is particularly dangerous. Visitors should be meticulous in respecting the numerous army and police roadblocks. Police and security forces can be excitable and undisciplined. Particular care should be taken in the north and west of the country where there have been frequent clashes. All travel to the 18 Montagnes and Moyen Cavally regions should be avoided. In the area between Duékoué and Odienne, armed elements are often under the influence of drink or drugs, which makes them particularly unpredictable. Be aware of con-men and touts when arriving at Abidjan airport. The bridges crossing the lagoon in Abidjan should be avoided by those on foot. Taxis, except for metered orange taxis in Abidjan, are risky and often unroadworthy. Buses are overcrowded and best avoided. Sea bathing is dangerous as strong sea currents are present, and drownings are common.
