Things to Do in Ivorycoast in December

December Weather in Ivorycoast

28°C (82°F) High Temp

22°C (72°F) Low Temp

35 mm (1.4 inches) Rainfall

75% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season means minimal rainfall (only 35mm/1.4 inches) and crystal-clear skies for beach activities and outdoor exploration
Harmattan winds from the Sahara create cooler evenings (22°C/72°F) and reduce humidity, making December the most comfortable month for walking tours
December coincides with cacao harvest season - cocoa plantation tours offer fresh tastings and the country celebrates its position as world's largest cocoa producer
Tourist infrastructure operates at full capacity with all coastal resorts, national parks, and transportation routes fully accessible during dry season

Considerations

Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% compared to rainy season, especially in Abidjan and Grand-Bassam
Harmattan winds bring Saharan dust that can reduce visibility and affect air quality, particularly problematic for those with respiratory sensitivities
Intense UV radiation (index 9) combined with dry air requires constant sun protection and hydration - many first-time visitors underestimate the sun's strength

Best Activities in December

Tai National Park Wildlife Safaris

December's dry conditions make wildlife spotting exceptional as animals gather around water sources. Trails are completely accessible, and the lack of rainfall means clear forest paths for viewing chimpanzees, forest elephants, and rare Diana monkeys. Morning temperatures of 22°C (72°F) are perfect for 4-6 hour guided walks.

Booking Tip: Reserve 3-4 weeks ahead through certified eco-tourism operators. Full-day guided safaris typically cost 45,000-65,000 XOF including park fees and local guide. Book early morning slots (6 AM start) for best wildlife activity. See current tour options in booking section below.

Grand-Bassam Colonial Architecture Walking Tours

UNESCO World Heritage colonial quarter is most comfortable to explore in December's cooler morning temperatures. Dry season ensures all historic buildings are accessible, and reduced humidity makes 2-3 hour walking tours through French colonial architecture much more pleasant than rainy season visits.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours possible, but local historian guides (typically 15,000-25,000 XOF for 3 hours) provide crucial context about colonial history and contemporary Ivorian culture. Start before 10 AM to avoid peak sun exposure. Current guided options available in booking section.

Abidjan Lagoon Boat Excursions

December's calm conditions and clear skies create perfect lagoon navigation weather. Traditional pinasse boat tours showcase Abidjan's unique lagoon geography, connecting four major districts. Evening tours (4-7 PM) offer spectacular city skyline views as temperatures drop to comfortable 24°C (75°F).

Booking Tip: Half-day lagoon tours range 30,000-50,000 XOF per person including hotel transfers. Choose operators with life jackets and radio communication. Sunset tours book up quickly in December - reserve 2 weeks ahead. Check current availability in booking widget below.

Yamoussoukro Basilica and Palace Tours

December's clear weather provides unobstructed views of the world's largest basilica. Dry conditions mean the extensive palace grounds (former President Houphouët-Boigny's residence) are fully accessible for guided tours. Cooler mornings make the 30-minute walk around the enormous complex comfortable.

Booking Tip: Combine basilica visit with sacred crocodile lake viewing. Day trips from Abidjan typically cost 35,000-55,000 XOF including transport and entrance fees. Book through licensed tour operators for proper palace access permissions. Current tour combinations in booking section.

Assinie Beach Resort Activities

December's minimal rainfall (only 3 days) and consistent sunshine create ideal beach conditions. Ocean temperatures remain warm (26°C/79°F) while coastal breezes keep air temperatures comfortable for all-day beach activities. Sea conditions are calmest for water sports and fishing excursions.

Booking Tip: Beach resort day passes range 20,000-40,000 XOF including facilities access. Water sport equipment rentals (jet skis, kayaks) available at most resorts. Book weekend accommodations 4-5 weeks ahead as Abidjan residents escape to coast. Current resort packages in booking section.

Cocoa Plantation Cultural Experiences

December harvest season offers authentic farm-to-chocolate experiences unavailable other times. Visit active plantations during peak harvest, learn traditional fermentation methods, and taste fresh cocoa directly from pods. Cool morning temperatures make plantation walks comfortable for 3-4 hour cultural immersions.

Booking Tip: Authentic plantation visits cost 25,000-40,000 XOF including transportation from major cities and traditional lunch. Choose family-run operations over industrial farms for genuine cultural exchange. Many combine with local village stays. Current cultural tour options below.

December Events & Festivals

Throughout December

Festival des Masques (Mask Festival)

Traditional mask ceremonies peak in December across various regions, particularly in Man and surrounding mountain areas. Witness authentic Dan and Wê cultural performances featuring intricate wooden masks and traditional dances passed down through generations.

Early to Mid December

Cocoa Harvest Celebrations

Village-level festivities celebrating the year's cocoa harvest occur throughout December in western regions. Experience traditional gratitude ceremonies, taste fresh cocoa products, and participate in community celebrations marking the economic heart of rural Ivory Coast.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 9 and December's clear skies offer little natural shade protection

Lightweight long-sleeve cotton shirts in light colors - protects against intense sun while allowing airflow in 75% humidity

Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - dry season trails can be dusty and slippery in forest areas

Light rain jacket or poncho - though only 3 rainy days expected, tropical downpours can be intense when they occur

High-quality dust mask or scarf - Harmattan winds bring Saharan dust that can irritate respiratory systems

Insect repellent with DEET - even in dry season, forest areas and lagoons have mosquitoes active during cooler evening hours

Power bank and universal adapter - frequent power outages during peak tourist season strain electrical infrastructure

Cash in small CFA franc denominations - rural areas and local markets rarely accept cards, and ATMs can be unreliable

Reusable water bottle with purification tablets - stay hydrated in dry air but avoid plastic waste in eco-sensitive areas

Basic French phrasebook or translation app - English proficiency varies significantly outside major tourist areas

Insider Knowledge

Local 'maquis' restaurants serve the best authentic cuisine during December harvest season - try fresh attiéké with grilled fish caught that morning, but arrive before 2 PM when popular dishes sell out

Negotiate taxi fares before entering - December tourist influx means drivers often quote inflated prices to foreigners; standard Abidjan trips should cost 2,000-5,000 XOF depending on distance

Many government offices and businesses close December 20-31 for extended holiday periods - complete any required documentation or official visits before mid-December

Book accommodations in Abidjan's Plateau district for business access but stay in Cocody or Marcory for better restaurants and nightlife - locals avoid staying where they work

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the intensity of December sun - many visitors assume less humidity means less sun protection needed, resulting in severe burns within hours

Booking only coastal accommodation - inland cultural sites like Korhogo and Man offer completely different experiences but require advance planning for limited tourism infrastructure

Expecting widespread English fluency - outside luxury hotels and major tourist sites, French is essential for meaningful interactions and navigation