Tai National Park: Complete Guide for an Authentic Adventure

Planning to visit Tai National Park in Ivory Coast?
Located in the southwest of the country, this UNESCO-listed park is one of the last remaining primary rainforests in West Africa. In this complete guide, discover how to get there, what to do, entry fees, practical tips, and a 4-day eco-tour itinerary tested by our team.

Where Is Tai National Park Located? Access & Map

Located in the southwest of Ivory Coast, on the border with Liberia, Tai National Park spans 5,400 km² and covers the regions of Tai, Guiglo, and San Pedro.

• From Abidjan: Allow about 10 to 12 hours by private vehicle or bus via San Pedro or Man.
• From San Pedro: The route is more direct (around 4 hours) via the road to Tai or Djouroutou.
• Local Transport: taxis connect surrounding villages to the park’s entry points. Traveling with an authorized local guide is mandatory.

Activities to Do During Your Visit to Taï National Park

Tai National Park offers a unique immersion into one of West Africa’s last primary rainforests. To make the most of your visit, here are the must-do activities you shouldn’t miss. An OIPR-certified guide is mandatory, and you can book yours through Ecotourisme Parc Taï. Follow our guide to explore the best itineraries, safaris, and eco-tourism experiences!

Watch Wild Chimpanzees

The park is a true sanctuary for endangered species:

• Chimpanzees – famous for their remarkable use of tools.
• Forest Elephants – smaller than their savanna cousins, yet equally majestic.
• Pangolins, Duikers, and Dwarf Crocodiles – Taï National Park is home to over 250 rare mammal and bird species.

Go Hiking in the Ancient Primary Forest

Tai’s forest, thousands of years old, is the perfect setting for an unforgettable hike:

• Towering giant trees over 50 meters high (e.g., Ceiba pentandra, Makoré).
• Medicinal plants, lianas, and rare orchids scattered throughout the trails.
• More than 1,300 recorded plant species, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Since 1982, the park has enjoyed international recognition for its exceptional biodiversity, its role in climate regulation, and the rarity of its intact primary forest. A visit to Tai is also an opportunity to understand environmental challenges and the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem.

Join Community-Based Ecotourism Projects

Tai National Park is a successful example of sustainable ecotourism, where every visit supports local communities. On-site, you can:

• Spend a night in traditional villages
• Take part in local activities such as dances, crafts, and farming
• Engage with communities and learn about their way of life

Visit the Eco-Museum Before Entering the Park

The Eco-Museum is the perfect introduction to Tai National Park:

• History of the park
• Iconic wildlife and plant species
• Conservation challenges
• Role of OIPR and partner NGOs

Follow a Multi-Day Ecotourism Itinerary

For a full immersion, several NGOs and certified guides offer 2- to 5-day stays. Our team tested a 4-day circuit including hiking, wildlife observation, nights in camps, and community encounters with Ecotourisme Parc Taï. Keep reading to discover our complete experience!

Ecotourism Itinerary: Explore Taï National Park in 4 Days

Day 1 – Journey from Abidjan to Daobly Village

At dawn (6:00 AM), our driver picked us up in Abidjan in a sturdy 4×4 Mitsubishi. We were four friends ready for adventure.

After a quick coffee and sandwich stop in Yamoussoukro at 9:30 AM, we continued west. Nearly 10 hours later, we reached Daobly, a traditional village at the park’s entrance.

The sunset over the forest was breathtaking, and the evening dances and drumming with village children made the experience truly authentic.

Day 2 – From Daobly to Tai Town and Park Entry

We left early at 7:00 AM for Taï town, where we paid the park entrance fees. At 9:00 AM, we visited the Eco-Museum, a perfect introduction to the park’s wildlife, flora, and conservation challenges—plus a taste of local coffee.

By 9:30 AM, we began a 9 km hike through the forest to the camp. Along the way, we spotted red colobus monkeys. Dinner at the camp was warm and welcoming before a night under canvas in the heart of nature.

Day 3 – Meeting the Forest Monkeys

At sunrise, we had the rare chance to observe Tai’s famous monkeys up close in their natural habitat—a magical moment.

In the afternoon, another guided walk revealed towering trees and endemic flora. Dinner cooked over an open fire was delicious, and we spent a second night in camp.

Day 4 – Return and Tasty Souvenirs

After an early breakfast, we hiked back 9 km to the Eco-Museum in just 2.5 hours.

At 9:30 AM, we enjoyed a well-deserved coffee and bought local chocolate—an ethical, tasty souvenir from Tai.

By 10:00 AM, we hit the road to Abidjan, stopping in Yamoussoukro for a relaxing break.

Tips for Visiting Taï National Park

This trip to Taï National Park will stay in our memories forever. Although the journey from Abidjan is long, every moment in the heart of the primary rainforest helped us reconnect with what truly matters. After living this unique experience, we’re sharing our best tips to make the most of your visit to Taï National Park!

• Plan your route from Abidjan: Expect 10–12 hours by road; start at 6:00 AM and consider stops in Yamoussoukro or San Pedro.
• Book your guide and stay in advance: An OIPR-certified guide is mandatory; camp spots are limited.
• Pack for the rainforest: Waterproof hiking shoes, long lightweight clothes, headlamp, power bank, binoculars, dry bag, and mosquito repellent.
• Prepare for no mobile network: Download documents beforehand and inform someone of your itinerary.
• Respect conservation rules: Stay on trails, keep distance from wildlife, and follow your guide’s instructions.
• Embrace the forest rhythm: Early starts, simple camps, and meals cooked over fire—rustic but deeply immersive.
• Support local communities: Buy chocolate, crafts, visit the Eco-Museum, and hire local guides.
• Observe wildlife in silence: Move quietly and follow your guide’s cues for the best sightings.
• Keep an open mind: Taï is not a classic safari—it’s a slow, authentic immersion in one of West Africa’s last primary forests.

And you? Have you ever visited Taï National Park? Share your experience in the comments!

❓ FAQ – Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Tai National Park

🔶 Best time to visit?

Dry season (November–March) for easier trails and better wildlife viewing.

🔶 Entry fees?

Around 250,000 FCFA (€381) for a 4-day package in the north (includes 4×4, driver, meals, and lodging). Southern circuits cost more.

🔶 Is it safe?

Yes—professional guides and eco-guards ensure secure routes.

🔶 Is There Mobile Network in Tai National Park?

No, there is no network inside the park, which makes the experience even more unique and unforgettable. Enjoy a few days of complete digital detox!

🔶 Can You Buy Souvenirs on Site?

Yes! You’ll find beautiful handicrafts at the Eco-Museum—perfect for bringing home an authentic local souvenir. In addition, delicious chocolate made by women’s cooperatives is available in partner villages, a great way to support the local economy.