Bouaké

Bouaké sits at the centre of the country and works as its inland trading hub, with one of the largest markets in West Africa spreading across several quarters and selling everything from cloth to livestock. It is a Baoulé city with a substantial northern population, and the mix shows in the food and the markets. The Carnaval de Bouaké each March fills the streets with parades, masks and music and is generally counted the biggest event of its kind in the country.

What you actually see

• The grand market - one of the largest inland markets in West Africa.
• The carnival - the March street parades, the country's largest.
• The cloth trade - printed and woven textiles sold across several quarters.
• The railway - the line north from Abidjan running through the city.

When to go

November to February is the dry season and the most comfortable. The carnival is usually in March. The rains from June to October are heavy in the centre.

Honest expectations

There is little formal sightseeing; the market and the street life are the visit. Accommodation is limited and fills at carnival time. The city is spread out and getting between quarters takes transport.

Nearby

Katiola is north, and Yamoussoukro is south.