MAN – TOURIST CITY
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Min Age: 7
Description
Man is the major city of western Côte d'Ivoire. Built at the bottom of a basin surrounded by a mountain range, it bears the charming nickname of "the city of 18 mountains." As such, it is unlike any other city in Côte d'Ivoire.
The name Man comes from the sacrifice made by the patriarch Gbê, canton chief of Gbêpleu at the end of the 19th century. He sacrificed his only daughter, named Manlé, who was buried alive in the sacred forest of Gbêpleu, for the development and harmonious growth of the city then being founded.
The vegetation consists essentially of forest. On the mountain slopes, you will discover a variety of plant species set within a landscape as magnificent as it is diverse.
It stands out for its resemblance to a human tooth — one small, one large — which is how the mountain got its name. The waterfall of the Dent is just as breathtaking as that of the Tonkpi. The difference is that it is less well known and its potential remains underexploited.
These stepped waterfalls create impressive natural landscapes with sequences of several small cascades. Highly popular, the waterfalls of Man are visited by those seeking a refreshing dip in their natural pools.
The area of the city of Man is 471 km²
District: Mountain District
Region: Tonkpi
Department: Man
Population: 241,969
Languages spoken: French, Yacouba, Wé
One of the must-see tourist activities in this region of Côte d'Ivoire is the spectacular waterfalls!
The Man region boasts truly rich aquatic biodiversity. You can find numerous waterfalls and rivers here. The city of Man has three waterfalls: the Mont Tonkpi waterfall, the Dent waterfall, and the Goba waterfall.
This is your chance to immerse yourself in the wild waters of the falls. The feeling you experience in this place is one of deep humility. Visitors often leave with a renewed sense of connection, a feeling of accomplishment, and an unforgettable moment in the heart of nature that will stay with them forever.
The most famous of Man's waterfalls is the Mont Tonkpi waterfall. Images of its magnificent cascades have traveled around the world, drawing thousands of visitors every year. Treat yourself to a moment of pure joy and come admire the magnificent and majestic rush of water at the Mont Tonkpi waterfall.
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A symbol of the city of Man, this small mountain stands 881 metres tall and is very easily accessible. As for the climb itself, the Dent de Man should be manageable for anyone in good physical condition. So if you are brave enough to scale this tree-covered peak, don't forget to wear appropriate footwear and stay hydrated! Once you reach the summit, you can fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape. Nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts — don't hold back, just go for it!
At 1,215 metres, Mont Tonkpi is one of the highest peaks in the region (the second highest after Mont Nimba). Perfect for hiking — whether alone, with friends, or with the whole family (children included) — the mountain summit is located 25 kilometres from the city of Man. Climbing Mont Tonkpi is one of the great classic tourist experiences in Man. For your expedition, two options are available: OPTION 1: The drive (preferably in a 4x4) The journey will take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to reach the summit. Once at the top, your effort will be richly rewarded by the breathtaking panorama that awaits you! It is a truly unforgettable experience! You can also discover the Governor Mesmon's house and the RTI (Radio Télévision Ivoirienne) tower. OPTION 2: The hike on foot. You can also attempt the climb to Tonkpi on foot. The path is very steep, but delighted hikers tackle it with a local guide. If you choose this option, be sure to bring water and wear appropriate footwear. The hike takes between 4 and 6 hours (depending on your pace) to reach the summit. The reward at the end is well worth it: a panoramic view over the entire city and all the way to neighbouring countries.
The liana bridges represent a rare and unique historical, cultural, and architectural heritage of the Danané and Tonkpi regions. The liana bridges are structures built by the Yacouba villagers, the majority ethnic group based in western Côte d'Ivoire. These structures resemble hammocks and are crafted from the finest lianas found in the forest. "DRA" is the term used in the Yacouba language to refer to the liana bridge; it can be translated as "hammock" in French. Every year in August, the liana bridges are renewed in the greatest secrecy, in keeping with tradition. It is in the morning, upon waking, that everyone finds a new bridge ready for use, with no explanation given. According to tradition, only initiates take part in the making of the liana bridges. It is strictly forbidden to anyone who has not been initiated — under pain of mystical repercussions should you attempt it!
Waterfalls you absolutely must discover: The Mont Tonkpi waterfall, the Dent waterfall, and the Goba waterfall. The Mont Tonkpi waterfall is located in the village of Zadepleu. The access road begins at the outskirts of the city of Man. The Dent waterfall is also found at the foot of the mountain of the same name. The Dent stands out for its resemblance to a human tooth — one small, one large — which is how the mountain got its name. The Goba waterfall, for its part, is situated on the road to Danané. However, it remains underexploited.
Visit the monkey forest, the natural waterfall of Zadepleu, and Mont Tonkpi, which is home to the RTI transmitter, the governor's house, and an inexhaustible natural spring.
Join the Dent de Man circuit for a full day of mountain climbing and a swim at the Dent de Man waterfall.
Discover the village of Dompleu, the Gba mask, the sacred catfish river, and the Tematé dance.
Explore the waterfalls of Déoulé and Zagouê.
Experience the liana bridge circuit in Danané, 70 km from Man. Cross the liana bridges of Vatouo and Lieupleu, then finish with the Goba waterfall.
Follow in the footsteps of Samory Touré and visit the village of Guelemou to discover the site of his arrest, his sabre, the gateway mountain, and the Blita waterfall.
Visit the village of sculptors and weavers to pick up unique souvenirs.
Round off your stay in style by attending a stilt mask dance performance.
