Things to Do in Ivorycoast in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Ivorycoast
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Lush green landscapes at their most spectacular - forests are emerald, waterfalls at full power, and the countryside looks like a nature documentary
- Fewer tourists mean you'll have beaches, national parks, and cultural sites largely to yourself - accommodation prices drop 20-30% compared to dry season
- Best time for wildlife viewing in national parks - animals gather at water sources and bird migration brings exotic species through the country
- Fresh tropical fruits are at peak season - mangoes, pineapples, and local varieties like attiéké are cheapest and most flavorful
Considerations
- Heavy daily rainfall from 2-6pm makes outdoor activities challenging - expect 2-4 hours of intense downpours most days
- Many dirt roads to remote beaches and villages become impassable, limiting access to some coastal areas and jungle lodges
- High humidity (85%) makes it feel significantly hotter than the actual temperature, especially during physical activities
Best Activities in August
Abidjan City Cultural Tours
August's frequent rain makes air-conditioned museums, markets, and cultural centers perfect. The rainy season brings locals indoors, creating vibrant atmospheres in covered markets like Marché du Plateau. Morning tours (8am-noon) avoid afternoon downpours entirely.
Taï National Park Wildlife Viewing
August is peak wildlife season as animals concentrate around water sources during rains. Chimpanzees, forest elephants, and over 200 bird species are most active. Rain creates cooler temperatures (perfect for hiking) and the forest canopy provides natural shelter.
Grand-Bassam Colonial Architecture Tours
This UNESCO site is ideal in August - covered verandas and colonial buildings provide shelter from rain while you explore. Fewer crowds mean better photos of the historic French colonial buildings. Rain creates dramatic atmosphere against the architecture.
Yamoussoukro Basilica and Palace Tours
August is perfect for indoor cultural sites. The world's largest basilica offers climate-controlled comfort during rain, and fewer visitors mean peaceful contemplation. The presidential palace grounds are lush and green from recent rains.
Sassandra Beach Resort Stays
Beach resorts work well in August - you get dramatic storm watching, empty beaches between rains, and resort amenities during downpours. August swells create better surfing conditions, and rain cools down beach temperatures significantly.
Man Region Waterfall Hikes
August transforms western region waterfalls into spectacular cascades. La Cascade and other falls are at maximum power. Rain makes hiking cooler, and the mountainous terrain offers natural shelter. Local guides know dry-season-only trails to avoid.
August Events & Festivals
Festival des Arts et de la Culture (FESCART)
Annual arts festival featuring Ivorian music, dance, and visual arts. Indoor venues across Abidjan showcase traditional and contemporary culture. Perfect rainy-season cultural immersion with covered stages and gallery spaces.
Fête du Dipri Preparation Season
While main Dipri festivals occur later, August is when communities begin intensive preparation rituals. Visitors can observe mask-making, costume preparation, and community meetings in villages around Gomon and surrounding areas.