Plizio Visual Lab

Bandama

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

River

Weather…

The Bandama River is the longest river contained entirely within Ivory Coast, flowing approximately 800 to 1,050 kilometers from the northern savannas to the Gulf of Guinea. Formed by the convergence of the White Bandama and the Red Bandama, it serves as a vital north-south axis for the country's central regions. The river's most significant engineering feat is the Kossou Dam, completed in 1973, which created Lake Kossou, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in West Africa. This infrastructure provides essential hydroelectric power and supports a thriving inland fishing industry. Ecologically, the Bandama transitions through diverse landscapes, including woody savannas and dense coastal forests. While rapids and seasonal fluctuations limit its use for large-scale shipping, it remains indispensable for irrigation, particularly for sugar cane and cotton crops. The river reaches the sea at Grand-Lahou, where its waters mix with the Tagba Lagoon in a complex estuarine system.

Location: Côte d’Ivoire
Nearby: Grand-Lahou (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	28	28	28	27	26	25	24	25	26	27	27
Rain mm	33	66	110	147	211	289	105	51	86	131	98	55

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

This natural destination in Ivory Coast is typically reached via local roads leading directly to the riverbanks. Visitors often use the nearest major settlements as a primary starting point for their journey into this region.

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Best season

The most favorable conditions for a visit generally occur during the regional dry season in Ivory Coast when weather is predictable. Traveling during these specific months often ensures much better overall accessibility.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain features typical regional characteristics, ranging from uneven paths to flatter expanses. Explorers should consistently expect varied and relatively untouched ground conditions at this location.

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What to bring

It is highly recommended to bring sturdy walking shoes, adequate sun protection, and a sufficient supply of drinking water. Appropriate outdoor clothing suitable for the local climate is essential for comfort.

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Parking

Vehicles are generally left in designated areas at the nearest settlement or at the starting point of local access routes. It is highly advisable to secure parking arrangements before heading deeper into the area.

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Safety

Visitors should always maintain awareness of their surroundings and strictly follow general outdoor safety practices. Staying on known paths and avoiding travel during extreme weather events is strongly advised.

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Time needed

A typical visit to this natural site can range from a few hours to a full, comprehensive day. Many travelers choose to allocate significant time to fully appreciate the surrounding environment in Ivory Coast.

Geography

Coordinates

5.10000, -5.00000

Facts

The Bandama is the longest river entirely within Ivory Coast at ~800 km.
Lake Kossou, created in 1973, flooded an area of 1,700 square kilometers.
The river's total drainage basin is approximately 97,000 square kilometers.
The Taabo Dam is another major hydroelectric facility on its lower course.
It discharges into the Gulf of Guinea via the Tagba Lagoon.
The river's name is derived from the local language of the Baule people.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Colonial Town Grand-Lahou4 km · SEExplore →

Grand-Lahou Lagoon11 km · EExplore →

Yocoboué Lagoon16 km · SEExplore →

Azagny Forest16 km · NEExplore →

Tiagba Lagoon25 km · NEExplore →

Historic Stilt Village of Tiagba37 km · NEExplore →

Fresco East Lagoon50 km · SEExplore →

Fresco Lagoon57 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the Bandama the longest river in the country?

Yes, it flows entirely within the Ivory Coast.

Are there dams on the river?

Yes, the Kossou dam is the most famous.

Can you fish here?

Yes, fishing is possible for locals and visitors.

Where does the Bandama end?

It flows into the Gulf of Guinea near Grand-Lahou.

Are there crocodiles in the river?

Yes, crocodiles are found in many sections.

Bandama: where is it located?

Bandama is located in Côte d’Ivoire.

Bandama: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Sep.

Bandama: why is it worth visiting?

The Bandama River is the longest river contained entirely within Ivory Coast, flowing approximately 800 to 1,050 kilometers from the northern savannas to the Gulf of Guinea.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →