Grand-Bassam, Côte d'Ivoire: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Grand-Bassam, Côte d'Ivoire? If you're planning to go to Grand-Bassam, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Grand-Bassam, Côte d'Ivoire

Based on the climate and weather in Grand-Bassam, Côte d'Ivoire, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Grand-Bassam, Côte d'Ivoire

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Grand-Bassam, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Grand-Bassam, Côte d'Ivoire by month

January

If you visit Grand-Bassam during January, you will probably see that it is constantly hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Grand-Bassam is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Grand-Bassam can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Grand-Bassam is consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May can be very hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Grand-Bassam is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to find the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Grand-Bassam is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you are traveling to Grand-Bassam in August, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

In September, Grand-Bassam is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Grand-Bassam, with several of the days of the month having rain. Additionally, it is windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Grand-Bassam in October, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Grand-Bassam is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Grand-Bassam can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Côte d'Ivoire has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Grand-Bassam may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you pick the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée National du Costume, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Grand-Bassam, Côte d'Ivoire

Located on the Gulf of Guinea, Grand-Bassam is a beautiful coastal town in Côte d'Ivoire, which is renowned for its stunning beaches, historical monuments, and cultural landmarks. The town, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts tourists from all over the world who want to get a glimpse of its unique blend of colonial architecture and traditional African culture. In this article, we are going to take a look at the top tourist attractions in Grand-Bassam.

1. The National Costume Museum

The National Costume Museum is one of the main tourist attractions in Grand-Bassam. Opened in 1998, the museum showcases the traditional clothing of the various ethnic groups in Côte d'Ivoire. Visitors can see fascinating displays of elaborate headdresses, brightly-colored fabrics, and intricate jewelry worn by the different tribes. The museum also hosts cultural performances and exhibitions that give visitors a glimpse of the country's rich cultural heritage.

2. The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum in Grand-Bassam is another must-see attraction. Housed in a former governor's residence, the museum offers insights into Côte d'Ivoire's colonial past. The exhibits include photographs, documents, and artifacts that highlight the country's history, including the slave trade and the struggle for independence.

3. The French Colonial Neighborhood

As a former French colonial capital, Grand-Bassam is home to many impressive colonial buildings that have been carefully preserved. Visitors can take a stroll around the stunning colonial neighborhood and admire the architecture, which includes imposing government buildings, elegant villas, and quaint chapels.

4. The Assinie-Mafia Beaches

One of the biggest draws of Grand-Bassam is its stunning coastal landscape. The Assinie-Mafia Beaches, which are about an hour's drive away from the town, are a favorite spot for tourists looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can try their hand at water sports like jet-skiing, surfing or take a relaxing boat ride along the picturesque coastline.

5. The Sacred Forest of Osse River

The Sacred Forest of Osse River is a unique site that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Côte d'Ivoire. Here you'll find an expanse of lush greenery and tall trees that are home to a range of exotic flora and fauna. Located close to Grand Bassam, the forest is a popular destination for tourists who enjoy hiking or birdwatching.

In conclusion, Grand-Bassam is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a blend of history, culture and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're looking to explore the town's colonial architecture, learn about traditional Ivorian culture, or simply relax on its beaches, this coastal town has something for everyone. So, if you're planning a trip to Ivory Coast, be sure to include Grand-Bassam on your itinerary.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Salisbury, Maryland, United States of America, Munich Airport, Germany, Jalalabad, Afghanistan, Saint Simons Island, Georgia, United States of America, Húsavík, Iceland, Evergreen, Alabama, United States of America, Red Carpet Country, Oklahoma, United States of America, Yas Island, United Arab Emirates, Nablus, Palestinian territories, Penzance, England, United Kingdom, and Capurganá, Colombia.