COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel

Do not travel within 40km of the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso, the Northern Zanzan and Savenes provinces, and the Comoe National Park due to the volatile security situation and terrorism (level 4 of 4). 

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the regions bordering Liberia, particularly the Cavally, Guémon, San Pedro and Tonkpi regions within 50km of the border with Liberia, due to the presence of armed groups, crime and the potential for cross-border attacks (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Côte d’Ivoire due to terrorism, violent crime and the potential for civil unrest (level 2 of 4).

View Larger Map Close/Open map

Cote d'Ivoire/Ivory Coast

Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Côte d’Ivoire from Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and its associated groups. On 13 March 2016, an armed attack on Grand Bassam Resort, near Abidjan, resulted in 18 deaths, including a number of foreigners. Border areas remain porous and have resulted in several small scale attacks near the border with Burkina Faso. Further attacks could be directed against public places or locations known to be frequented by foreigners, such as resorts, transport hubs, places of worship, hotels or restaurants.

New Zealanders in Côte d’Ivoire are advised to be security conscious at all times, monitor the media for information about threats to safety and security  and follow any advice and instructions issued by the local authorities.

Violent Crime
Violent crime, including armed robbery, home invasion and carjacking, occurs throughout Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in major urban and densely populated areas including Abidjan. Highway robberies have been reported, including on roads between major centres such as Yamoussoukro, Bouaké and Korhogo. There are reports of daytime muggings along the Charles de Gaulle and Houphouet Boigny bridges in Abidjan. Petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing also occurs.

New Zealanders in Côte d’Ivoire should exercise a high degree of personal security awareness at all times, and avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as jewellery, cameras and mobile devices. Be particularly careful in the neighbourhoods of Abobo, Adjamé, Treichville, Yopougon.

Plan road journeys carefully - always drive with windows closed and doors locked and hide valuables from view. We advise against travelling alone, by public transport, or after dark. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery, mugging or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence.

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations occur from time to time in Côte d’Ivoire and have on occasion led to violence, with clashes between protestors and security forces. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies, as even those intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent.

Tensions remain between armed groups and militias in areas bordering Liberia, Mali and Burkina Faso.

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Côte d’Ivoire, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens who require consular assistance is severely limited.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in Côte d’Ivoire to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

Authorities may ask for proof of your identity, so carry a colour photocopy of your passport and visa for Côte d’Ivoire at all times.

Photography of government buildings, airports, military establishments or official residences is prohibited. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Côte d’Ivoire should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders travelling or resident in Côte d’Ivoire are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

See our regional advice for Africa