Yamoussoukro

Yamoussoukro is the political capital of Ivory Coast and one of Africa's most surreal cities. This small town was transformed by the country's founding president Félix Houphouët-Boigny into a showpiece capital, centered on the extraordinary Basilica of Our Lady of Peace - the world's largest church, modeled on St. Peter's in Rome but even bigger.

Beyond the basilica, Yamoussoukro features the presidential palace with its famous moat of sacred crocodiles, wide boulevards lined with streetlights leading to empty suburbs, and a general atmosphere of grand ambition set in red laterite countryside. The contrast between the monumental architecture and the quiet rural surroundings makes this one of Africa's most unique urban experiences.

November to March is the dry season with warm temperatures (25-33°C) and clear skies. The wet season (April-July) brings heavy rain. The basilica is stunning in any weather but outdoor exploration is best when dry.