Azagny National Park

Azagny sits between the Bandama river and the Ebrie lagoon system near Grand-Lahou, around nineteen thousand hectares of swamp forest, marsh and savanna, and it is a Ramsar wetland. Forest elephants, buffalo, sitatunga and manatee are present, and the birdlife is substantial. The Canal d'Azagny, cut in the colonial period to link the lagoon systems, runs through the park and is the usual way in, so most visits are by boat.

What you actually see

• The swamp forest - flooded woodland across much of the park.
• The canal - the colonial-era cut through the park, used as the access route.
• The forest elephants - a small population, rarely seen but present.
• The birdlife - wetland and forest species across the lagoon habitats.

When to go

November to March is the dry season and the practical window. The rains from April to July raise the water. Early morning is best for birds and any wildlife.

Honest expectations

Elephants are very rarely seen and visitors should not expect them. Access is by boat with a guide and must be arranged in advance. There is no accommodation and facilities are none.

Nearby

Grand-Lahou is nearby, and Abidjan is east.