Côte d’Ivoire

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 100, 111, or +225-01-03-79-91-44 for police and to report crimes. 
• Dial +225-27-22-49-40-00 for the U.S. embassy.
• Dial 225-07-49-96-0324, +225-01-40-64-4704, +225-05-65-60-1010, or 185 for emergency or ambulance services or “Service d’Aide Medicale Urgente”(SAMU).

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad, including:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (buses and commercial flights)

Terrorist groups

Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM)

The main terrorist threat in the region is from a group called Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM).

• JNIM is linked to al-Qa’ida. It is present in the Sahel region, including Burkina Faso and Mali.
• In the past, JNIM has crossed the border from Burkina Faso to conduct attacks in northern Côte d’Ivoire.
• Attacks have occurred in the Savanes and Zanzan Districts, including Comoé National Park. These attacks have mainly targeted Ivoirian security forces, and sometimes civilians.

Al-Qa’ida in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM)

Al-Qa’ida has carried out small-scale attacks in northern Côte d’Ivoire, but not since 2021.

• After these attacks, the Ivoirian Armed Forces formed the Northern Operational Zone (ZON) to protect the region.
• There have been no recent known incidents of violent extremism in the region, although risks remain along the northern border and in the northeast corner of Côte d’Ivoire.
• Review our Terrorism page for more information

Demonstrations 

Groups may gather and demonstrate in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

• Property crime includes burglaries and car theft.
• Violent crime includes carjacking and armed robberies in homes and on the streets.
• Illegal firearms are readily available throughout the country.
• Robberies and other violent crimes can occur at anytime.
• Criminals target travelers along roadways / at major intersections / in isolated areas in the countryside.
• During major Muslim and Christian holidays, robberies and opportunistic crimes increase. These crimes include burglaries of cars and homes. 
• Criminals usually do not hurt victims who cooperate and hand over their belongings. Criminals have used violence when victims refuse to give up their valuables.

Police response

Police can sometimes stop crime, but they do not have enough resources. Security services often lack radios, guns, and cars. This limits their ability to respond.

• Many gendarmes and police stations outside of Abidjan have 1 vehicle for the whole precinct.
• Police often get emergency calls from the public via cell phones because they lack a centralized dispatch system.
• Police response to crime is often slow and usually limited to writing a report.

Safety tips

• U.S. citizens should be careful after dark.
• U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the Northern and Northeastern border region. 

Scams

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Internet romance and financial scams are increasingly prevalent in Côte d’Ivoire. Scams often start with internet postings or profiles. They can also start with unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance, online dating or sextortion
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/relative targeting
• Free trip/luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits or job offers
• Bank overpayments

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

• Dial 100, 111, or +225-01-03-79-91-44 to report crimes to the local police by . 
• Dial +225-27-22-49-40-00 to contact the U.S. embassy if assistance is needed.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drones are generally prohibited. They require formal authorization through Ivoirian aviation and security authorities.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

Côte d’Ivoire’s tourism industry is growing, but risks remain to travelers.

• Tourists participate in activities at their own risk. 
• Emergency response and medical treatment are available in Abidjan, but quality and price vary. Options are more limited or non-existent outside of Abidjan.
• Purchase medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Swimming safety risks

• Swimming in coastal waters is dangerous, even for experienced swimmers.
• The ocean currents along the coast are powerful and dangerous, and many people drown each year. This includes popular beach destinations such as Grand Bassam and Assinie. 

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. 
• Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Côte d’Ivoire, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Corruption

• Corruption is an ongoing problem in Côte d'Ivoire. It affects court cases, government contracts, customs, and taxes.

Police checkpoints

Police, military, and gendarmes regularly stop cars for traffic violations and security checks. If you are stopped:

• Politely show your identification.
• Police and security officials rarely speak English.
• If asked to pay a bribe, politely refuse.
• Show a photocopy of your U.S. passport, visa, and entry stamp.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate immediately. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports
• Human Rights Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• Ivoirian law categorizes same-sex sexual activity as a form of public indecency. It carries a penalty of up to 2 years in prison. This is the same as for illegal heterosexual acts.
• Same-sex marriage is not recognized under local law.
• Anti-discrimination laws exist. However, they do not cover discrimination based on sexual orientation.
• Review our information on Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Côte d’Ivoire prohibits discrimination against people with physical and mental disabilities but the law is not well enforced.
• Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as common as in the United States. The 2025 Human Rights Report did not show evidence of discrimination against people with disabilities in employment and education.

Expect accessibility to be extremely limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure in Abidjan and throughout the country. Rental, repair, and replacement parts for aids, equipment and devices are scarce. The same is true for service providers, such as sign language interpreters and personal assistants.

• Contact the U.S. Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire to receive a list of providers.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers

Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C) happens in Côte d'Ivoire and remains a human rights and public health concern. However, FGM/C has decreased in recent years because of better education and stronger law enforcement.

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

The government has not consistently taken credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses.

There are credible reports of:

• extrajudicial killings
• restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly
• infringements on the right to strike
• enforced disappearances
• prolonged detention without charges
• torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment
• transnational repression
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling or your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Côte d’Ivoire Traveler 
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial +225-07-49-96-0324, +225-01-40-64-4704, +225-05-65-60-1010, or 185 for ambulance services or “Service d’aide Medicale Urgente” (SAMU).

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.

• For emergency medical transport in Côte d’Ivoire, public ambulances are free. Private ambulances charge a fee.
• Ambulances are not present or unreliable in most areas except Abidjan.  
• Ambulances are not equipped with advanced medical equipment.
• They are not staffed with trained paramedics. They often have little or no medical equipment.

• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Côte d’Ivoire. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Private and public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Yellow fever vaccine is required along with a WHO Yellow Card to document proof of vaccine.

Common diseases

The following diseases are common in Côte d’Ivoire:

• Diarrhea illness
• HIV and AIDS
• Malaria
• Meningococcal Disease
• Tuberculosis
• Dengue
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend mosquito repellents. They also recommend sleeping under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Adequate health facilities are available in Abidjan and other major cities, but it may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas. Facilities do not fully meet U.S. standards.

• Abidjan has privately-run medical and dental facilities that are adequate, but do not fully meet U.S. standards. You can find good physician specialists but few speak English.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. The same is true in many rural medical facilities.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff are available overnight. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Newer drugs may not be available. If you plan a long trip to Côte d’Ivoire, bring enough medication in your carry-on luggage to last the entire stay.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Côte d’Ivoire to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Côte d’Ivoire with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Côte d’Ivoire courts.

• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Côte d’Ivoire via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays with local authorities while documenting your child’s birth or citizenship status.
• People who do not follow local law risk legal consequences. 

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is considered potable in Côte d’Ivoire, but bottled water is recommended. Avoid drinking tap water during rainy seasons or during flooding.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Côte d’Ivoire. Consider the impact of seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution on you. Consult with your doctor before traveling if needed.

• The air quality varies considerably and changes with the seasons. It is worst during the harmattan season from December to February when dry winds blow sand and dust from the Sahara Desert. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:
• Infants, children, and teens. 
  • People over 65 years of age.
  • People with lung disease, such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
  • People with heart disease or diabetes.
  • People who work or are active outdoors.

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• NASA’s Air Quality Forecast uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Abidjan.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality Page.
• Review the EPA’s AirNow, for information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance,
• Review our Medicine and Health page for general health information

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Road safety is a big concern in Côte d’Ivoire. U.S. Embassy officers are banned from driving outside of major cities after dark. This includes driving between Abidjan, Grand Bassam, and Assinie. Visibility is often poor, even in developed areas with streetlights.

Road dangers

• Crashes happen often on roads between major cities. They often involve large commercial or private vehicles.
• Overturned or broken-down vehicles are common and may block routes and create traffic jams.
• Cargo trucks are often overloaded and do not follow safety rules.
• Impatient drivers frequently disregard traffic laws and drive recklessly. Cars and trucks often travel without functioning headlights.

Emergency consular services

• The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to provide consular services outside of the Abidjan area.
• U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the Northern and Northeastern border regions. Many areas of Côte d’Ivoire are difficult to access, and travel in these areas is hazardous.
• The consular section cannot provide emergency aid.

Carjacking safety

• Carjackings have been reported in Abidjan, including vehicles with diplomatic plates.
• While stopped in traffic, leave enough room between your car and the one in front so you can drive away if needed.
• Before getting into your car, look around to see if anyone is watching you. If someone appears to be watching, do not go to your vehicle.
• If confronted, stay calm and polite. If threatened with violence, do not resist.
• Street criminals often use threats of violence when attacking victims.

Traffic laws

You must have a valid U.S. driver's license and an International Driving Permit to drive a car in Côte d’Ivoire.

Traffic law enforcement

• Authorities rarely enforce traffic laws.
• Police presence on roads outside of the capital at night is limited or does not exist.
• Police checkpoints are common on major roads throughout the country. They often increase after security incidents.

Police roadblocks

• There are many police roadblocks on the major routes outside of Abidjan. They may be permanent or informal.
• At these roadblocks, officers allegedly pressure travelers for bribes.

Common traffic violations

• Using a cell phone while driving and not wearing a seatbelt are against the law. This results in an immediate fine.
• If you receive a traffic violation, you should request a receipt for any items confiscated or fines paid.

If you are in an accident

• If you are in an accident, call the police.
• If you believe the situation might become violent, call or travel to the nearest police or gendarme station. 

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are available and inexpensive. You may be able to negotiate a better rate than drivers’ initial fare offers. Taxis are poorly maintained and known to not respect the rules of the road.

• There have been reports of robberies in metered or orange taxis.
• Communal taxis (“woro-woros”), used only within the limits of each commune, are not metered and may be dangerous.
• Do not use communal taxis (“woro-woros”) or local vans (“Gbaka”). They are frequently involved in accidents.
• Always travel in groups and avoid driving on roads outside of Abidjan at night.
• Ride-share applications are available in parts of Côte d’Ivoire, including Uber, Yango, and Heetch. These services are good for travelers with limited French. They are generally safer than hailing a taxi from the street.

Public and commercial transportation

Abidjan has a developing public transportation system. If you choose to travel by bus, the “Express” line is the safest and most reliable service.

• Visit the website of Côte d’Ivoire’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Côte d’Ivoire’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. 
• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program. 

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Côte d’Ivoire should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Piracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping for ransom threaten U.S. flagged vessels in the Gulf of Guinea. They also threaten U.S. mariners on a vessel or traveling to or from a vessel in the Gulf of Guinea.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Rainfall and flash flooding

The rainy season is from June to September. Flash flooding occurs in low-lying areas.

• Heavy rains have caused landslides, riverbank erosion, bridge washouts, and property damage.
• Roads may be closed suddenly and stay closed for indefinite periods of time, especially in more remote areas.
• U.S. citizens should watch local weather and news reports. Avoid driving through flooded areas. Keep water and emergency supplies at home.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Residency permits

U.S. citizens who plan to live in Côte d’Ivoire must apply for a residency permit (titre de sejour) or residency card (carte de residence) at the l'Office National de l'État Civil et de l'Identification (ONECI).

• Titres de séjour are not issued to children under the age of 16 who are documented on their parents' visas.
• No other documents are required for those on their parents’ visas.

Residency permits

U.S. citizens who plan to live in Côte d’Ivoire must apply for a residency permit (titre de sejour) or residency card (carte de residence) at the l'Office National de l'État Civil et de l'Identification (ONECI).

• Titres de séjour are not issued to children under the age of 16 who are documented on their parents' visas.
• No other documents are required for those on their parents’ visas.

Embassies and consulates