Exercise increased caution in Côte d’Ivoire due to COVID-19, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and upcoming elections.  

Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Côte d’Ivoire due to COVID-19.

Airport operations and international flights in Côte d’Ivoire have resumed, although the number of flights is reduced. Land and maritime borders remain closed. Business operations (including day cares and schools) have fully resumed. Visit the Embassy's  COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Côte d’Ivoire.

Reconsider Travel To:

• Northern border region due to terrorism.

Country Summary: Legislative elections are expected to take place in late February or early March 2021. Past electoral periods were marked by incidents of civil unrest, including demonstrations, vandalism, and violence. Similar incidents of unrest may occur in the period leading up to, during, and following the upcoming legislative elections.

• Violent crime, such as carjacking, robbery, and home invasion, is common.
• Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting areas frequented by foreigners. 

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens outside of Abidjan. Embassy personnel are prohibited from driving outside the cities after dark, including between Abidjan, Grand Bassam, and Assinie.

Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.

If you decide to travel to Côte d’Ivoire:

• See the U.S. Embassy's web page regarding COVID-19.  
• Visit the CDC’s webpage on Travel and COVID-19.
• Monitor local media for breaking events, and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and leave originals in your hotel safe.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Côte d’Ivoire.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Northern Border Region: Reconsider Travel

Extremists have carried out attacks in areas of Mali and Burkina Faso adjacent to Côte d’Ivoire and at an Ivoirian military border post in the town of Kafolo in June 2020. Exercise increased caution and security procedures in remote areas adjacent to the northern border.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to election information.