The second city, the Baoulé capital, and the site of the country's biggest carnival.
Bouaké sits at the centre of the country, at the meeting point between the forest of the south and the savanna of the north. It is the second largest city and the heart of Baoulé country, and its market is one of the biggest in West Africa — the place where goods from both halves of the country change hands.
The city carries the marks of the years of political crisis, during which it was the headquarters of the northern forces. That history is recent and still visible, and it is part of understanding the place rather than a reason to avoid it. Bouaké makes a natural stop on the way north.
Vast, and organised by trade rather than by aisle. Fabric, food, hardware, medicine — it takes hours and it is the best introduction to the city.
An hour north, the women of the Mangoro caste make pottery by hand without a wheel, a skill passed down between women for generations. You watch the whole process and buy at source.
The region's woven cloth is worked in narrow strips then sewn together — a different tradition from the painted cloth of the north.
A large street carnival with parades, masks and music that draws groups from across the country and from neighbouring states. Dates vary; ask us and we will check against your travel window.
The political capital, and the site of one of the largest churches in the world.
ExploreCapital of the north, heart of Senufo country, and home of the painted cloth that became an emblem of the country.
ExploreThe city of eighteen mountains: mask country, waterfalls and liana bridges.
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