Excursion Abidjan & bingerville gardens tour at Abidjan

Photo stop at St Paul's Cathedral

Drive from Abidjan cruise port to the Plateau (city centre) and capital of Cote d'Ivoire, making a photo stop at the St Paul's Cathedral. (A Roman Catholic Cathedral.)

The cathedral, which was designed by architect Aldo Spirito, serves as the mother church for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Abidjan. The first stone of the cathedral was consecrated on May 11, 1980 by Pope John Paul II during his pastoral visit to Cote d'Ivoire. It is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and was estimated to cost $12million to build. Architecturally, the cathedral is unique and modern.

Museum of Civilization

Continue on to the Museum of Civilization (Musee des Civilisations) also located on the Plateau and learn about the history of the Cote d'Ivoire and its traditional values at Musee des Civilisations de Cote d'Ivoire. The musee, which dates back to 1942, possesses various collections with over 1.5 million objects of great value to the national heritage. These include archaeological and ethnographic items, as well as photographs and contemporary art pieces. Tour the museum to see wooden and bronze statues, traditional masks, musical instruments, clothes, pottery, and more.

Bingerville Gardens and Refreshment stop

Continue on to Bingerville Gardens and enjoy an easy stroll to discover plants, insects, reptiles, and possible small mammals native to the Ivory Coast. Originally a market tow, Bingerville grew as the capital of the French colony from 1909 until 1934. It is named after Louis-Gustave Binger, a former French colonial governor.

This garden, dating back to the colonial era, and created in 1904 by the then Governor Angoulvant was initially known as the "governor's garden". Later, as the site was gradually developed, several species of trees and plants from around the world were added. In 1935 it was officially named a Botanic Garden because of its rich flora. Part of the original 70 hectares of the site was used to house the agricultural high school. Home to nearly 300 plant species there are vanilla trees, orchids, opuntia, jasmine, hydrangeas, dahlias and many other "perfume trees/plants". It offers a tranquil break from the city. Stroll down the shady paths meandering through the creaking bamboo clumps to observe different species of trees and flowers. Enjoy a Tree planting ceremony in the Bingerville Gardens, followed by a refreshment at Debarcadere Restaurant before driving back to Abidjan cruise pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Plateau (Abidjan City Centre), Musee des Civilisations, Bingerville Gardens

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking of approximately 1 km or 0.6 miles and a few steps to negotiate. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight comfortable clothing, and flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. Guests are advised to ask for permission to take photos of locals. It is not permitted to take photographs of any Military or Government buildings.