DID you know that you could travel to some of great African countries whilst saving money using budget airlines like Air Cote d I'voire?

There are plenty of destinations in Africa which some people have never heard of or visited and it pains me to know that the cities (listed below) have so much to offer, from: the culture, people, cuisine and wonderful attraction sites, just to name a few.

Traveling to these African destinations can really enlighten you and give you a deep insight into the world of the people who live there and be a great experience for you too. I must also add that venturing to these cities would be relatively affordable, especially if you're coming from Lagos because it's regional and not international.

So, if you intend on going to somewhere new for a vacation or quick getaway then you've come to the right place!

Below are some brilliant provinces in the continent that Air Cote d I'voire can take you to.



1. Abidjan

Abidjan is an emerging city with strong similarities to Lagos. It’s buzzing, full of life and very busy so it's perfect for those who enjoy being immersed into a lively and dynamic lifestyle.

The city feels very much like home (Nigeria) due to the local roadside food joints, eateries and people, with the only strong difference being that it is a francophone country and most roadsides and billboard advertisements are written in French.

With Ivory Coast being a West African country, you can easily communicate with your fellow man or women with ease because Ivorian’s also speak and understand Pidgin English. There is lots to be explored in this fascinating city, from: its night clubs, diners, hotels and beautiful beaches.

Fun fact: Former Chealsea striker, Didier Drogba also hails from Abidjan.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Abidjan start from just ₦130,000. Book Now.



2. Bamako

Bamako is the capital of Mali, a culturally and historically rich place that is bursting with life and color.

This city makes a unique and interesting destination because you get to have an insight of the local life just by interacting with people and doing all the things that they do.

Escape to the Parc National du Mali, an oasis where you can come and relax with your family. The park is filled up with locals who wear their best weekend outfit and generally just hang out and have a good time together.

Parc National du Mali is well kept, spacious and perfect for picnic opportunities. Also, there is a zoo next door for you to marvel at the magnificent species of animals that Mali lays claim to.

Fun fact: Mali is the biggest country in West Africa.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Bamako start from just ₦255,000. Book now.



3. Brazzaville


As the largest city in the Republic of Congo, its only right for Brazzaville to be teeming with plenty of wonderful sights and locations.

Its French influence is heavily present and the cathedrals and grand buildings are what you will be immediately drawn towards. As well as stunning architecture, Brazzaville offers several plush and comfortable hotels which includes Olympic Palace Hotel, Mikhael's Hotel and Radisson Blu.

If there’s anything that can be synonyms with Brazzaville is its well-structured buildings which you can't help but marvel at.

Fun fact: The Congo River is the 2nd largest river in the world.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Brazzaville start from just ₦185,000. Book now.



4. Conakry


Many travellers find it difficult to fly to Conakry but with Air Cote D Ivoire, you can get there from Lagos quite easily. Plus it’s only an hour away from Senegal.

Conakry has some amazing natural reserves that draw tourists from all around the globe to it. The Soumba Waterfalls is a beautiful location that you must see and there are even restaurants located next to this nature reserve which means you can dine against the beautiful backdrop of the waterfalls. Also, if you fancy a quick adventure while on your vacation here then whisk yourself away to Atoll Island, a peaceful serene place that’s just a boat ride away from Novotel Hotel.

Fun fact: The country is sometimes called Guinea-Conakry so people don't confuse it with Guinea-Bissau.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Conakry start from just ₦285,000. Book now.



5. Dakar

African destinations

Dakar makes an amazing destination for Nigerian holidaymakers who want to travel within the African region. Senegal’s capital city boasts a range of attractive tourists activities, beaches and grand resorts.

The Senegalese people, Dakarois in particular, are very warm and welcoming, so your stay here would be enjoyable.

Make the most of your time there by visiting The Plateau, a downtown area where you can find the Presidential Palace, the Chamber of Commerce and many other interesting attractions. Les Almadies is where you’d want to go for fancy accommodation, high end restaurants and gorgeous sights. It is the wealthier part of the city so you're bound to have a very pleasant time there. However, whether you're downtown or uptown, venturing from one axis to the other would seem like an escape away from the other because they are both such interesting places with different qualities.

Fun fact: Senegal is home to the tallest staue in Africa, the African Renaissance Monument which is 50m tall.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Dakar start from just ₦230,000. Book now.



6. Freetown


A lot of people who have visited Freetown, wonder why its not full to the brim with tourists because it has all the natural qualities you would need for a peaceful African retreat. Staggering views of the sandy white beaches entice you to camp out there for the day. Moreover, there are a lot of isolated coastlines in Freetown that offer you the chance to fish, swim, relax and sunbathe in peace.

Fun fact: The longest river in Sierra Leone is called River Rokel.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Freetown start from just ₦150,000. Book now.



7. Libreville

Libreville is a must see for the mere fact that it is one of the cleanest cities in Africa. The city is highly modernized and very western, but it still maintains very strong African influences. One of the city's most valued assets is the sea front. Many people enjoy relaxing by on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

Fun fact: Gabon has hot and humid weather all year round.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Libreville start from just ₦101,000. Book now.



8. Monrovia

Monrovia is the capital of Liberia and a place with grand locations such as the National Museum, where you get to see some of the countries artifacts. Although a lot of the countries historical treasures were stolen during the civil war, there is still plenty to see there that will give you a great insight into Liberian culture.

Also, you could head down to the Cenetennial Pavilion, a building that is regarded as the centre of Liberia’s history. Two great things about Liberia are that it has a lot of fascinating sites and Monrovia is a city of faith and history.

A trip here is definitely worth the visit if you are deeply interested in West African history.

Fun fact: The first female head of state in Africa came from Liberia.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Monrovia start from just ₦120,000. Book now.



9. N’djamena

N’djamena is the biggest city in Chad and is quite laid back and relaxed. Even the name of the city translates in English as ‘place of rest’. It is quite close to Nigeria and very easy to fly in to. Air Cote D I'voire do direct flights from Lagos to N’djamena for cheap rates too.

Although it’s a Muslim city and alcohol is not widely accepted, you can still have a good time. Try dining in some of the city's most fabulous restaurants in top hotels like Le Meridien and when you fancy some warmth, take peaceful atmosphere as an opportunity to gaze at the famous sunset at the Chari River.

Fun fact: Chad is the 5th largest country in Africa.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to N'djamena start from just ₦150,000. Book now.



10. Ouagadougou

The people of Ouagadougou will give you a very warm welcome. The temperatures can really soar in this city which is why you need to visit bars like New Monopol which offer you ice cold beer and meals and the chance to cool off in a huge swimming pool.

Fun fact: Schooling is free until the age of 16 and the school week runs from Monday through to Saturday.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Ouagadougou start from just ₦170,000. Book now.



11. Pointe Noire

If you’ve not visited Pointe Noire then you should do some time soon. It’s another one of Congo’s largest cities and a place with a large number of tourists and expats. It’s a pretty sight with visible western influence and a very French feel to it. It’s a relatively safe and conducive place with lots of fun activities to do and places to go. This is a fun African destination because you can go on village tours, where you can experience the calm village life for yourself, catch some fish during marine activities and enjoy a train ride through the forest...Yes, it sounds so adventurous.

Fun fact: The Congo River is what separates both Brazzaville and Kinsasha. It runs right through the Republic of Congo.

The cheapest fares from Lagos to Pointe Noire start from just ₦155,000. Book now.

Some of these countries have high rates of malaria and typhoid so if you are pregnant or want to know more information on how to prepare yourself when traveling then leave a comment below.