Excursion Azito village & zaouli dance performance tour at Abidjan

Azito Village

Drive from Abidjan to Azito Village which takes one hour to see a community living in the traditional lifestyle, less than an hour from Cote d'Ivoire. On arrival at the small village, there will be an official Welcome Ceremony with Royal Dignitaries from Azito Village. After the official Welcome, a guided walking tour through Azito village located on the edge of the lagoon with a lovely view. See the local women at work smoking fish that the men have caught and also preparing cassava. The dish is prepared from fermented cassava pulp that has been grated or granulated. This visit provides a way to see the life of part of the population including children from the village, which still lives the tradition way.

Zaouli Dance Performance

End the walking tour in the local town hall with a Zaouli Dance Performance and refreshments. Zaouli is a traditional dance of the Guro people (who speak the Guro language of the central Ivory Coast.) The Zaouli mask, used in the dance, was created in the 1950s, reportedly inspired by a girl named 'Djela Lou Zaouli' (meaning "Zaouli, daughter of Djela"). However, stories on the origins of the mask are varied, and each mask can have its own symbolic history.

Each Guro village has a local Zaouli dancer (always male), performing during funerals and celebrations. The dance is believed to increase the productivity of a village that it is performed in, and is seen as a tool of unity for the Guro community, and by extension the whole country. After the Zaouli Dance, enjoy a sampling of fresh fruit and a refreshing beverage before returning to Abidjan Port.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Azito Village, Zaouli Dance - Traditional Dance of the Guro

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.