Man: mountains, waterfalls and masks in the west

Why go west

After the humidity of the coast, Man is a breath of fresh air. Green hills rise all around the town, mist clings to the forest in the mornings, and the pace of life is slower. This is the homeland of the Dan, also called Yacouba, and the Wê peoples, whose masks are among the most celebrated in African art. The region was badly affected by the conflicts of the 2000s, but it has been peaceful for years and is slowly welcoming visitors back.

The Dent de Man

The Dent de Man is the dramatic tooth-shaped peak just north-east of town. A hike to the top takes most of a morning from the nearest village, on steep paths through farmland and forest, with views over the whole valley from the summit. Go early to avoid the midday heat, take plenty of water and good shoes, and hire a guide in the village, both for the route and as a courtesy to the community. Paths get slippery in the rainy season.

Waterfalls and forest

**La Cascade**, a few kilometres from town, tumbles through a lush bamboo forest and is reached by a short walk and a footbridge. It is most impressive after rain. **Mont Tonkoui**, one of the highest points in the country, has a winding road up into cool, misty forest and wide views on clear days. Near the village of **Gbêpleu**, a sacred forest shelters monkeys that villagers have protected for generations, and visitors can watch them up close with a guide.

Vine bridges

The Yacouba villages near Danané and Lieupleu are famous for their **ponts de lianes**, bridges woven from forest vines across rivers. According to tradition they are built in a single night by initiates, and their construction is surrounded by secrecy. Crossing one is a swaying, unforgettable experience. Go with a local guide, and respect any rules about photography or who may cross.

The masks

For the Dan, masks are not objects for display but living spirits that appear at ceremonies, funerals, initiations and festivals. You may see the famous stilt dancers, who perform astonishing acrobatics on tall poles, or the great masks that settle disputes and bless villages. Performances are tied to the community calendar, so ask locally and through guides, and always ask before taking photographs. The Man region also hosts a festival of masks in some years; confirm dates locally as they vary.

Getting there and around

Man is a long journey from Abidjan by road, usually a full day by intercity bus or with a hired driver, often via Yamoussoukro and Duékoué. Breaking the trip in Yamoussoukro makes it easier. Domestic flights to Man have operated at times, so check with Air Côte d’Ivoire for current routes. In town, taxis are cheap and plentiful, and guides can arrange trips to the villages.

Where to stay

Hotels in Man are simple and modest, with a handful of options with pools and hill views. Book ahead in the dry season, expect occasional power cuts and bring a torch.

Staying safe

Man itself is calm, but read your government’s current travel advice, which may cover parts of the western border areas near Liberia and Guinea. Travel by day, keep to main roads and use local guides for hikes and village visits.