Côte d’Ivoire Travel Advisory: Level 3: Reconsider travel
Reconsider travel to Côte d’Ivoire due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and upcoming elections
Read the Department of State COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Côte d’Ivoire due to COVID-19.
Côte d’Ivoire has lifted travel restrictions between cities and allowed schools and some businesses to reopen. Some international airlines have resumed operations. 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: The presidential election is scheduled for October 31, 2020. Although there have been no specific incidents of violence or threats targeting U.S. citizens, civil unrest, demonstrations, and violence have already occurred, and may recur in the period leading up to, during, and following the election.
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 security, civil unrest, and election information.