Banco National Park
Parc national du Banco
A primeval rainforest national park in the heart of the city, with towering ancient trees and forest trails. On the riverbank is the famous open-air laundry.
Banco National Park was established in 1953 and covers about 3,400 hectares. It is a rare primeval tropical rainforest within a major city, preserving tall African mahogany and other precious tree species, and it is home to monkeys, birds, and many amphibians. The park has several forest trails and lakes, and you can hire a guide for a hike. On the southern edge, along the Banco River, is the famous Fanico open-air laundry, where hundreds of laundry workers wash clothes by hand in the river and spread them out to dry on the banks, a unique scene (ask permission before taking photos). Entry requires a ticket, and prices vary, so check on site. It's best to visit in the morning, and bring insect repellent.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:00 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Abidjan National Zoo
- Fondation Donwahi
- Museum of Civilisations of Côte d'Ivoire
- St. Paul's Cathedral
- Le Plateau
- Hôtel Ivoire
- Grand Mosque of Plateau
- Ébrié Lagoon Boat Ride