Where is the Ivory Coast located? - briefly
Ivory Coast, officially known as Côte d'Ivoire, is situated in West Africa. It is bordered by Liberia and Guinea to the west, Mali and Burkina Faso to the north, Ghana to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea (Atlantic Ocean) to the south.
Where is the Ivory Coast located? - in detail
The Ivory Coast, officially known as the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, is situated in West Africa. It is bordered by several countries, which include Liberia and Guinea to the west, Mali and Burkina Faso to the north, Ghana to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea, which is an extension of the Atlantic Ocean, to the south. This strategic positioning places the Ivory Coast in a region that is rich in cultural diversity and economic potential.
The geographical coordinates of the Ivory Coast are approximately 8.00 degrees North latitude and 5.00 degrees West longitude. The country spans a total area of about 322,463 square kilometers, making it a significant landmass in the West African region. The terrain of the Ivory Coast is varied, featuring coastal plains, dense forests, and savannas. The highest point in the country is Mont Nienokoué, which stands at 1,752 meters above sea level, located in the west near the Liberian border.
The Ivory Coast's coastline stretches for about 515 kilometers, providing it with access to the Atlantic Ocean. This coastal access is crucial for maritime trade and has historically been a significant factor in the country's economic development. The capital city, Yamoussoukro, is located in the central part of the country, while the largest city and economic hub, Abidjan, is situated on the southeastern coast. Abidjan is the country's principal port and a major center for commerce and industry.
The Ivory Coast's climate is generally tropical, with a hot and humid atmosphere. The country experiences two main seasons: the wet season, which lasts from May to October, and the dry season, which lasts from November to April. The southern part of the country, which includes the coastal regions, tends to be more humid and receives more rainfall compared to the northern regions, which are drier and more suitable for savanna vegetation.
The Ivory Coast's rich natural resources and strategic location have made it a significant player in the West African region. The country's economy is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture, particularly the production of cocoa and coffee, as well as mining, oil, and gas. The country's infrastructure, including ports, roads, and airports, supports its economic activities and facilitates trade with other nations. The Ivory Coast's cultural heritage is equally diverse, reflecting the influences of various ethnic groups and historical interactions with other regions. This cultural richness is evident in the country's art, music, and traditional practices, which continue to evolve and thrive.