Power & Connectivity (SIM)

Côte d'Ivoire uses 230V / 50Hz with Type C and Type E sockets (European two round pins, plus a grounding pin for Type E). Bring a Type C/E adapter; travellers from 100–120V countries need a converter for devices that are not dual-voltage.

The main operators are Orange, MTN and Moov, with good 4G in Abidjan and larger towns. Prepaid SIMs are sold at operator shops and kiosks; registration requires ID (bring your passport). Coverage thins out in rural areas.

eSIM support is expanding among local operators, and international travel eSIMs (such as Airalo) are a convenient option: buy one online before arrival and install it in minutes, with no shop visit. Check that your phone is eSIM-capable.

Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés in Abidjan, though speeds vary by location and can be slower elsewhere. Use a VPN on public networks for sensitive tasks like banking, and consider a SIM/eSIM for reliable data on the go.

Côte d'Ivoire generally has an open internet with no significant restrictions. Standard apps and services — messaging, social media, maps and streaming — work normally.

Handy apps include ride-hailing like Yango, Bolt and Uber in Abidjan, maps and translation. Mobile money is central: Wave and Orange Money are widely used to pay for transport and everyday purchases.

Côte d'Ivoire's country code is +225. App-based calls (WhatsApp, FaceTime and similar) are common and popular. Save numbers in full +225 format so they work from any network.