Things To Do
in Marcory
Marcory is a vibrant residential and commercial enclave on Abidjan's southern coast. It combines palm-lined streets, busy markets, and easy access to the lagoon, making it a convenient base for city exploration. The area blends modern apartments with casual eateries and international businesses, reflecting the dynamic pace of Abidjan.
While the vibe can be fast-paced, Marcory also serves as a gateway to waterfront sights and nearby natural escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the bustling Marcory Market, where the vibrant colors and rich aromas of local produce fill the air. Engage with friendly vendors, sampling fresh fruits and local delicacies, while practicing your French or a few phrases in Baoulé. Don't forget to take in the lively atmosphere, as locals barter and trade, giving you a true sense of daily life in Marcory.
After the market, head to the nearby local art galleries showcasing the works of Ivorian artists. Spend time examining traditional crafts and contemporary pieces, and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir to take home. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, indulging in Ivorian dishes like attiéké or garba.
As the sun sets, explore the streets of Marcory, stopping at a popular local bar for some refreshing palm wine or a cold beer. Immerse yourself in the sounds of Afrobeat music as you mingle with locals and other travelers. Round off your evening by tasting some street food delicacies, such as grilled fish or spicy meat skewers.
Visit the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro, located a short drive from Marcory, to marvel at its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Early morning light casts beautiful shadows on the basilica’s grand facade, making it an ideal time for photography. Take a moment for reflection or prayer in the peaceful surroundings.
Return to Marcory for lunch at a local eatery, then take a guided tour of the historic landmarks, such as the old colonial buildings that reflect the region's rich history. Learn about the impact of French colonization on Ivorian culture and architecture. Stroll through the neighborhoods, appreciating the blend of old and new in the city landscape.
As night falls, head to a traditional Ivorian restaurant where you can enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local specialties. Experience the warm hospitality of the Ivorians and perhaps join in on a folk dance or music performance. End your evening with a casual walk through the area, soaking in the vibrant nightlife that Marcory has to offer.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short city trip) | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant urban culture and cuisine
- Close to beaches and nature reserves
- Friendly locals and abundant markets
- Good base to explore Abidjan and nearby sites
- Busy traffic and sometimes challenging travel times
- Hot and humid summers; rainfall can disrupt plans
- Limited high-end dining options in certain pockets
- Occasional power and water outages in older neighborhoods
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
Places to Visit in Marcory
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush forest with wildlife and canopy trails offering dramatic light for photography.
Golden-hour silhouettes of palm trees, boats, and the lagoon horizon.
Architectural lines and water reflections along the Ebrié Lagoon edge.
City skyline against water at sunset near the Marcory area.
Food in Marcory
Marcory Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing cassava couscous served with grilled fish, onions, peppers, and a spicy sauce.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried ripe plantains served with a spicy pepper sauce and often a boiled egg.
A popular street-food combo of attiéké, grilled fish, onions, and pepper sauce.
Palm oil-based sauce served with rice and vegetables; a comforting, flavorsome option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls offering fresh seafood, attiéké, plantains, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Portable grills and snack carts with local favorites like garba and alloco.
Markets with daily produce, fruits, yams, and staples used in home cooking.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin interactions with a polite bonjour/bonsoir; handshake is common in most settings.
Use the right hand for giving and receiving items and paying; avoid using the left hand for polite exchanges.
Cover shoulders and knees in more formal venues, especially religious sites; dress codes vary by venue.
Show respect to elders; avoid loud confrontations in public; politics discussions can be sensitive.
Safety
Tipping in Marcory
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if service is good. Round up taxi fares and leave small change for street food vendors.
Cash (XOF) is widely used; credit/debit cards accepted in upscale spots; mobile money (Orange Money, MTN MoMo) common for small payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with higher humidity; sunscreen and hydration essential; occasional breezes from the sea.
Regular heavy showers; plan for short walks with rain gear; some streets may flood after heavy rain.
Hot days with cooler nights; dusty conditions; carry a scarf or mask to reduce dust; good visibility for photography.
Marcory at Night
Hiking in Marcory
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest reserve just outside Abidjan with marked trails and wildlife, ideal for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Marcory by plane.
Abidjan's main international gateway, located in Port Bouet; taxis and ride-hailing services connect to Marcory and central Abidjan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are under 30, contributing to a dynamic, entrepreneurial vibe.
Diverse groups including Akan (Baoulé, Agni), Kru, Mande, and Dioula communities shape the city’s culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and matches are common around the city.
Widely played in schools and community centers; growing street basketball culture.
Popular at local gyms and sports centers; weekend events are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Marcory.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables, attiéké with beans or lentils, plantains, and tomato-based sauces; ask for stock-free dishes or mushroom and legume options.