The tall trees
Deep shade.
Mouna k — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Mouna k — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Mouna k — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Mouna k — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Mouna k — CC BY-SA 4.0
Banco National Park is a dense tropical forest in the heart of Abidjan, where the districts of Abobo, Yopougon, Adjamé and Attécoubé meet. It covers about 3,438 hectares, with a core of some 600 hectares of primary forest. Along with Tijuca in Rio de Janeiro, it is one of the few rainforests inside a major city, and it is called Abidjan's green lung. The forest became a forestry station in 1926 and a national park in 1953. Its name is said to come from an Ebrié word meaning «refreshing water spring». The park holds a forestry school and an old arboretum, and it is also an important water reserve for the city. You walk wide dirt paths between tall straight trees in deep shade, with huge roots spreading over the ground. Some trees carry small green plates with their scientific names. The noise of the city fades the further in you go, replaced by birds and insects. The park also has a small river and a lake. It is about 8 km from Le Plateau in a straight line. Enter by the official gate, and take a guide for the longer trails. Carry water and wear closed shoes, as the ground is damp. Avoid walking alone in the remote edges.
Deep shade.
Among the roots.
Inside the city.
Between Abobo and Yopougon, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
Yes, Abidjan's districts surround it on several sides.
Not for short trails, but it helps on long ones.