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Abidjan & Monrovia
The National Bar Association embarks on their 2027 International Affiliates Meeting to two iconic cities and one unforgettable journey for connection, culture and opportunity.
Overview
Cote d'Ivoire and Liberia
Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire, a dynamic blend of traditional and innovation on the shores of the lagoon is vibrant, modern and culturally rich. Monrovia, Liberia a city of history, hope and warm hospitality on the Atlantic Ocean is historic, resilient and welcoming.
Dates
April 21 - April 30, 2027
Days
9 days
Price
from $4849 - $6049 per person
Highlights
Journey at a Glance
Naming Ceremony
Grand-Bassam, the historic colonial capital of Côte d’Ivoire. Participate in a traditional naming ceremony in Grand-Bassam, where local elders share the cultural significance of local names and the customs surrounding this cherished tradition. Accompanied by traditional drumming, music, and ceremonial blessings, participants will learn about the values and symbolism behind the naming process before receiving their own local name.
Culture
Cultural exploration in Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Côte d'Ivoire. Explore the Grand Mosque of Yamoussoukro, one of the city’s notable places of worship. Visit Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, a towering and breathtaking structure recognized as one of the largest churches in the world. With its intricate stained-glass windows and towering dome, the Basilica is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a significant place of spiritual devotion. Visit the Lake of Crocodiles, located at the entrance to the presidential palace
History & Heritage
Liberia's capital city of Monrovia was named after U.S. President James Monroe, this coastal city is the nation's political, cultural, and economic heart. Heritage / Diaspora Tour: Providence Island, Providence Baptist Church, J.J. Roberts Monument, and dialogue with Rev. Laura Pritchard on freedom, diaspora, and African American ties to Liberia.
Connection & Opportunity
NBA IAM opportunities for connection at the Africa Economic Forum, continued education with CLE's, legal & government meetings
Gallery
Immerse Yourself in What Awaits
Let these stunning visuals transport you to your next adventure before you even pack your bags.
Itinerary
Every Moment, Perfectly Orchestrated
International Flight Itinerary (Not included in Land Program. Available to purchase from $2150): Itinerary subject to change
Ethiopian Airlines #513 APR 21 New York (JFK) to Abidjan (ABJ) 1000P 1135A +1 22APR – non-stop
Ethiopian Airlines #1006 APR 30 Monrovia (ROB) to Lomé (LFW) 710A 1045A (OPERATED BY ASKY)
Ethiopian Airlines #514 30 APR Lomé (LFW) to Newark (EWR) 1245P 745P – non-stop
Baggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag (not to exceed 50 lbs) and 1 Carry-on (not to exceed 15 lbs). Subject to change.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Sofitel Abidjan Hotel APRIL 22 – 27
Boulevard Palace Hotel APRIL 27 – 30
Day 1 - April 22 - ARRIVAL
Arrive in Abidjan, where you will be warmly welcomed. VIP meet and greet upon arrival at Aéroport international Félix Houphouët-Boigny D’Abidjan. Transfer to your hotel for check-in. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure, relaxing after your journey. Casual orientation reception
Day 2 - April 23 - ABIDJAN CITY TOUR - DOMAINE BINI EXPERIENCE
After breakfast, depart your hotel at 7:00 am for a short Abidjan city tour. Begin with a visit to Saint Paul’s Cathedral, an architectural landmark inaugurated in 1985. Recognized as the largest cathedral in Africa and the second largest church in Côte d’Ivoire, this impressive structure—designed to resemble an elephant—stands as a symbol of the country’s spiritual and national identity, combining daring design with technical brilliance. Continue to the National Museum of Civilizations, located in the Plateau district. The museum houses over 15,000 artifacts that showcase the cultural diversity and heritage of Côte d’Ivoire, with exhibits representing all regions of the country.
Afterwards, the group will visit Domaine Bini, a unique agro-ecotourism site nestled at kilometer 51 along the Abidjan-Yamoussoukro highway. Surrounded by a rich tapestry of diverse vegetation, Domaine Bini offers a carefully curated experience that immerses visitors in Côte d’Ivoire’s natural and cultural heritage.
Upon arrival, guests will receive a traditional welcome, complete with a tasting of coconut or palm wine, setting the tone for a day deeply rooted in local customs and hospitality. The first experience, “Contemplating Nature”, is a guided walk through the lush landscape. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, visitors will gain insight into the cultivation, production, and marketing of cocoa—Côte d’Ivoire’s most iconic crop. The tour includes tastings of raw cocoa beans and cocoa products made on-site. Visitors will also explore the farming of rubber trees, pepper, and other local crops. The walking tour covers approximately two kilometers, after which guests will enjoy a short rest and refreshments made from local ingredients such as bissap (hibiscus juice) and ginger.
In the afternoon, the focus shifts to “Enjoying Nature”, where guests are free to relax and play. Activities include a natural clay bath, a refreshing swim in the river, and a thrilling Tyrolean traverse (zip line). For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are games like stone-throwing, Awalé, Ludo, and pétanque to enjoy. At approximately 3:00 p.m., the group will drive back to conclude this immersive day of nature, culture, and community. Important to note: Visitors are advised to come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, a bathing suit, and a towel to fully enjoy the day’s experiences.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 3 - ABIDJAN – YAMOUSSOUKRO – ABIDJAN
After breakfast, set off for a full day of cultural exploration in Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Côte d’Ivoire. Begin your day with a visit to the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Foundation for Peace Research, established on November 10, 1973. Its current headquarters, built between 1977 and 1987, was officially inaugurated on December 5, 1997, when the keys were symbolically handed over to the then Director-General of UNESCO, Mr. Federico Mayor. Under the auspices of UNESCO, the Foundation remains committed to promoting peace and understanding both locally and globally.
Next, explore the Grand Mosque of Yamoussoukro, one of the city’s notable places of worship. Commissioned by President Houphouët-Boigny, this mosque showcases traditional architectural elements and has become one of the most frequently visited religious sites in the country. Continue your tour with a stop at the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, a towering and breathtaking structure recognized as one of the largest churches in the world. With its intricate stained-glass windows and towering dome, the Basilica is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a significant place of spiritual devotion.
Nearby, visit the Lake of Crocodiles, located at the entrance to the presidential palace. This lake is home to over 200 sacred caimans, along with a few crocodiles and alligators. Watching the caiman feeding ritual is considered a unique and fascinating experience for visitors to Yamoussoukro. After the day’s activities, return to Abidjan and enjoy the rest of the night at your leisure.
Included: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 4 - GRAND-BASSAM TOUR & NAMING CEREMONY
After breakfast, depart on a scenic drive to Grand-Bassam, the historic colonial capital of Côte d’Ivoire. Upon arrival, participate in a traditional naming ceremony in Grand-Bassam, where local elders share the cultural significance of local names and the customs surrounding this cherished tradition. Accompanied by traditional drumming, music, and ceremonial blessings, participants will learn about the values and symbolism behind the naming process before receiving their own local name. This immersive experience offers a meaningful connection to Côte d’Ivoire’s rich cultural heritage.
Afterward, discover its rich cultural and architectural heritage as you stroll through streets lined with beautifully preserved colonial-era buildings that reflect its French colonial past. Key visits include the Roman Catholic Diocese of Grand-Bassam, a notable religious landmark, and the National Costume Museum of Côte d’Ivoire, which showcases traditional attire and cultural expressions from across the country. After the tour, return to your hotel in Abidjan.
Included: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 5 - ASSOCIATION MEETING
After breakfast, participate in an association meetings
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Farewell Dinner.
Day 6 - ABIDJAN TO MONROVIA
Today, we depart Abidjan for Monrovia. Our ground team will welcome you at the airport and assist with your transfer to the Boulevard Palace Hotel for check-in. This evening, come together for a welcome-to-Liberia dinner.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7 - Let's Meet
Legal & Government Meetings: LNBA / Senate Legal Committee exchange, Judiciary & Rule of Law session, Temple of Justice (Courthouse) and U.S. Embassy visit.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8 - History & Heritage
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Afterward, depart for a Heritage / Diaspora Tour: Providence Island, Providence Baptist Church, J.J. Roberts Monument, and dialogue with Rev. Laura Pritchard on freedom, diaspora, and African American ties to Liberia.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Day 9 - Departure
Departure for Roberts International Airport for international flight to the US.
What’s Included
More Than a Package—It's an Experience
- 5 nights at Sofitel Abidjan Hotel – 5 Star accommodations
- 3 nights at Boulevard Palace – 5 Star accommodations
- Intercontinental flight from Abidjan to Monrovia
- Tours and transfers per group itinerary
- Breakfast daily from April 22 - 30
- 5 Lunches
- 3 Dinners
- 2 Receptions
- CLE
- Entrance fees for all tours and excursions specified in the itinerary or similar
What's Not Included in Your Package
- Early check-in and late check-out
- All airport departure taxes, when/if applicable, upon departure (international departure taxes to be paid in USD)
- International flights – International flights are available at an additional cost
- Transportation to/from the gateway. Connecting flights to and from our US departure gateway.
- Excess baggage charges
- Passport and visa fees
- Cote d’Ivoire Entry Requirements
- Tourist E-Visa is Required
- Passport must have 6 months’ validity beyond your arrival date.
- You must have 1 blank page for entry.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination required along with yellow WHO card
- Liberia Entry Requirements
- Tourist Visa is Required
- Your passport must have at least 6 months validity upon entry.
- You must have 1 blank page available per entry.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination required along with yellow WHO card
- Cote d’Ivoire Entry Requirements
- Meals not indicated on the program
- Beverages during meals – unless specified
- Items of a personal nature including but not limited to spa treatments, hotel incidentals, private transfer/transportation, etc.
- Africa Economic Forum
- Gratuities for tour and site guides and drivers
- Tour Guide: $5-10 per person per day
- Bus Driver: $2-5 per person per day
- Housekeeping: $3-5 per person per day
- Trip cancellation, travel delay, and baggage insurance (Note: This optional coverage is highly recommended and can also be purchased through your local insurance company)
- Charges incurred because of delays beyond Advantage International’s control, such as delayed or canceled flights
Begin Your Journey
Pricing and Booking
Dates & Availability
ECONOMY AND BUSINESS CLASS INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE IS AVAILABLE FROM $2150 PER PERSON. Airfare can be added after selecting the land package.
Searching Availability…
Payment Information
Payment Schedule: Not adhering to the payment schedule can result in late payment fees, cancellation without notice, and/or rate increases.
- 33% of the per person package price is due at the time of booking and is non-refundable.
- An additional 33% of the package price is due by November 16, 2026
- Full and final payment due by February 19, 2027
All prices are in US Dollars. Due to exchange rate changes, taxes, and other factors, we do not guarantee the amount of the final Tour Fee until the Full and Final Payment Date; prior to said date, we may increase the Tour price. Except as expressly stated in the Itinerary, you are solely responsible for any Tour-related costs that you incur. Change/Cancellation: Notice of change/cancellation must be made in writing to Advantage International, LLC, and your cancellation date will be the date we actually receive your notice: A name change can be requested, cannot be guaranteed, and additional fees will apply. All changes are subject to availability, rate differences, and are not guaranteed.
Change/Cancellation: Notice of change/cancellation must be made in writing to Advantage International, LLC, and your cancellation date will be the date we actually receive your notice: A name change can be requested, cannot be guaranteed, and additional fees will apply. All changes are subject to availability, rate differences, and are not guaranteed. Cancellation:33% initial deposit is non-refundable.
- 33% of the package price is nonrefundable.
- 66% of the package price is non-refundable if cancelled from November 16, 2026 to February 18, 2027
- 100% of the package price is non-refundable if cancelled on or after February 19, 2027, or if the guest is a no-show.
Documents required for entry to the country
- Cote d’Ivoire Entry Requirements
- Tourist E-Visa is Required
- Passport must have 6 months’ validity beyond your arrival date.
- You must have 1 blank page for entry.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination required along with yellow WHO card
- Liberia Entry Requirements
- Tourist Visa is Required
- Your passport must have at least 6 months validity upon entry.
- You must have 1 blank page available per entry.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination required along with yellow WHO card
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included?
Package inclusions vary by trip and are spelled out on your invoice and/or itinerary. Most packages include air transportation, transfers, accommodations, tours, selected meals, and events.
What is not included?
Anything that is not mentioned on the invoice or itinerary is not included in the package. Standard items that are not included are as follows:
- Travelers insurance
- Passport fee processing
- Visa fee and processing, if required
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities, unless noted in inclusions
- Baggage handling above the set limits
- Airline baggage fees
- Individual ground transportation
- Meals and beverages not listed on the itinerary
Do I need any Vaccinations or Medications?
The requirement for any vaccinations or medications are based on the destination. See the What's Not Included in Your Package, section of the website for your trip for details. Always seek, and follow the advice of your individual medical professional for any medications and vaccinations.
How much money should I take?
While this is a personal choice and based on the destination, we recommend $50 to $100 per person, per day.
Are included tours mandatory? Or Is it mandatory to participate in all of the scheduled/included tours?
No, you do not have to tour with the group. The group package and itinerary are scheduled; however, if you do not want to participate in any land tour on any day, you may opt out. Any tours that you do not join are non-refundable and cannot be used as payment for or credit toward individual tours.
Can I extend my trip?
Yes, you can extend your trip. We will make a request on your behalf, and provide you a quote for the additional services will provided. All additional expenses are your responsibility.
If I do not have a roommate, will you provide one?
We have a “single willing to share” program for registered trip participants. Once you have registered as a single traveler with a deposit, we then put you in contact with other registered “single willing to share” trip participants so that you can explore the possibility of rooming together on the trip.
It’s up to you. If you choose to share a room with another registered trip participant, both of you must let us know.
Are gratuities included?
Gratuities for local tour guides and bus drivers are not included, unless specified on the itinerary. You may tip at your discretion.
Gratuities: Recommendations
Tour Guide: $5-10 per person per day
Bus Driver: $2-5 per person per day
Housekeeping: $3-5 per person per day
Do you offer individual travel services?
Yes. If you would like for us to plan a trip for you, complete the “Plan A Trip” form.
What is the cancellation policy?
General Terms and Conditions are available here. Each group trip has its own payment schedule and cancellation policy. Please review the policy on the trips page. Please note funds cannot be applied to other trips and while name changes may be permitted, funds are non-transferable.
How much luggage can I take?
On our group tours, each person is allowed one carry-on bag and one checked bag. The baggage size and weight restrictions are set by the airline.
Once we arrive at a destination, we travel by motorcoach and your baggage must fit in the bus. In addition, we sometimes travel by domestic flights or train within a country and those carriers might have restrictions on baggage size or weight.
Do I need a passport?
All international trips require a passport. The validity of the passport will vary by destination. However, many destinations require a passport validity is 6 months beyond the date of departure from the country you are visiting.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Start your adventure today and explore the wonders that await you!
