Transports in Ivory Coast

Unlike other African countries, Ivory Coast does not have a wide transport network. However, it is rather developed, including a train, buses, taxis and bush taxis which serve most of the country. So if you have to move around, you should have nothing to worry about.

Bus

Ivorian buses are generally big, modern and comfortable. However, the bus networks is rather huge and complex, especially for foreigners. You can thus find it quite tricky in the beginning, although it is one of the country's easiest and most affordable means of transport.

Each bus company has its own bus station. Moreover, other bus stations have been built near the highways. Each major Ivorian city has at least one bus company which can take you to Abidjan, the capital city, on a daily basis.

In general, you will need an average of 200 CFA francs for a bus trip.

Taxi

Each major Ivorian city's taxi network has its own features. For instance, those of Abidjan and Bouaké are orange in color while those of Yamoussoukro are white in color with green and orange stripes. Unlike in Abidjan where taxis are equipped with a meter, the fare has to be negotiated in advance with the driver. In general, it ranges from 500 to 1,500 CFA francs.

Bush taxis

You simply cannot miss the bush taxi in Ivory Coast although it only serves only local or urban lines. Just like shared taxis, bush taxis start only when they are full. Thus, bus schedules are rather irregular.

Train

Ivory Coast has a single train line which stretches over some 1,200 km. The train network is managed by the Société internationale de transport africain par rail (SITARAIL) and links Abidjan to Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso.

The express train is rather clean and fast. However, you are advised to settle for first class seats which are more comfortable.

Useful links:

Expat.com ' Transports in Ivory Coast Forum
Société des Transports Abidjanais (SOTRA) ' Bus fares www.sotra.ci
Union des Transports de Bouaké (UTB) ' Bus schedules and fares utbci.net