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Kossou Dam
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The Kossou Dam on the Bandama River in central Ivory Coast was one of the country's most ambitious infrastructure projects after independence. Built between 1969 and 1972, it created the vast Lake Kossou, then the largest man-made body of water in the country. The goal was to achieve Ivorian energy independence and develop rural areas through fishing and irrigation. Relocating tens of thousands of people during construction was an enormous social challenge but also led to the creation of new settlements and agricultural projects. With an installed capacity of 174 MW, Kossou was the backbone of the Ivorian power grid for years. Even today, the dam plays an important role in power generation and water regulation for downstream plants like Taabo.
- Location: Côte d’Ivoire
- Nearby: Toumodi (51 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 14 | 53 | 102 | 125 | 149 | 197 | 119 | 91 | 141 | 150 | 73 | 25 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Kossou Dam dams the Bandama River and generates hydroelectric power for large parts of Ivory Coast. It is a major infrastructure project supplying electricity to the central part of the country.
Visiting
The dam crest is usually closed to the public, but the reservoir and its surroundings are accessible. From the shores of Lake Kossou you can admire the structure from a distance.
Where to view it
A recommended viewpoint is the lookout along the road from Yamoussoukro to Bouaflé. From there you get a panoramic view of the lake and the dam wall.
Local products
Fishing is practiced on Lake Kossou; local markets offer fresh fish like tilapia and Nile perch. In the area, rice and cassava are also grown, available seasonally.
Active season
The water level fluctuates between the dry and rainy seasons; electricity production is steady all year. The best time to visit is the dry season from December to March, when the lakeside roads are accessible.
Nearby
Combine the dam visit with the Presidential Palace in Yamoussoukro and the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. The nearby Lac aux Caïmans also provides another attraction.
Geography
Facts
- The reservoir covers an area of approximately 1,500 square kilometers.
- The dam is 1,500 meters long and 58 meters high.
- The project was largely financed by the Ivorian government.
- It houses three Francis turbines with 58 MW of power each.
- About 75,000 people had to be relocated for the project.
- Lake Kossou is an important habitat for many fish species.
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Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Kossou Dam?
It is a large hydroelectric dam on the Bandama River, completed in 1972.
Can the dam be visited?
Access to the top is often restricted for security reasons, but it can be seen from a distance.
What was created by the dam's construction?
It created Lake Kossou, the country's largest man-made lake, which is important for fishing.
How far is it from Yamoussoukro?
It is located about 40-50 km northwest of the capital, Yamoussoukro.
Are there tourist facilities there?
There is minimal infrastructure; visitors should bring their own food and water.
Kossou Dam: where is it located?
Kossou Dam is located in Côte d’Ivoire.
Kossou Dam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
Kossou Dam: why is it worth visiting?
The Kossou Dam on the Bandama River in central Ivory Coast was one of the country's most ambitious infrastructure projects after independence.
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History & landmarks
Charles Konan Banny Stadium
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Stadium of Peace Bouaké
The large stadium in Bouaké has been renovated several times and is a central venue for major sporting events.
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Taabo Dam
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