Banco National Park
Abidjan
Banco National Park, situated in the heart of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, is one of the world's largest urban primary tropical forests, covering approximately 34.74 square kilometers. Established initially as a forest station in 1926 and designated a national park in 1953, it preserves rare tree species such as mahogany and avodire. The park plays a crucial ecological role by housing a hydraulic reservoir that supplies 40% of Abidjan's drinking water and captures significant amounts of carbon dioxide annually. Visitors can explore extensive hiking trails and 80 kilometers of bike paths winding through dense forest and alongside the Gbangbo river, meaning "refreshing water source". Despite its urban location, the park supports diverse wildlife including primates, various bird species, and a small population of chimpanzees. However, it faces threats from illegal logging, poaching, and urban encroachment, prompting protective measures such as the construction of a perimeter wall. Banco National Park is a unique blend of natural heritage and urban necessity, offering a rare green refuge and vital ecosystem services within a bustling city environment.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Banco National Park is during the dry season to enjoy hiking and biking trails comfortably. Visitors are advised to check for any access restrictions or guided tour availability. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended if available, and look out for discounts for students or groups. Respect park regulations to help preserve its delicate ecosystem and wildlife. Guided tours can enhance the experience by providing insights into the park's biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Faits intéressants
- •Banco National Park is the second largest urban park in the world, after Tijuca National Park in Rio de Janeiro.
- •The park contains a hydraulic reservoir that supplies 40% of Abidjan's drinking water.
- •The park captures approximately 90,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually, contributing to climate regulation.
- •A river named Gbangbo flows through the park; its name means "refreshing water source" in the local Ebrié language.
- •The park still hosts a small population of chimpanzees and several threatened bird species.
Histoire
Banco National Park was first designated as a forest station in 1926 to conserve forest resources.
It became a national park in 1953 and was legally recognized as a Permanent Forest Estate of the State in 1966.
In 1978, a corridor for high-voltage electricity lines was established within the park, creating the distinctive "Triangle de Sagbé" area.
More recently, in 2022, construction began on a protective wall to prevent urban encroachment and safeguard the park's boundaries.
Guide du lieu
Primary Tropical Forest
A dense area of primary forest within the park, featuring rare tree species such as mahogany and avodire, representing a rare example of untouched tropical forest within an urban environment.
Hydraulic Reservoir
A vital water reservoir within the park that feeds 29 boreholes and supplies 40% of Abidjan's drinking water, highlighting the park's importance beyond biodiversity as a key urban water source.
Triangle de Sagbé1978
A corridor created in 1978 for high-voltage electricity lines, forming a 1.7 km by 0.15 km notch within the park, named after the nearby Abobo-Sagbé district.
Hiking and Bike Trails
Over 80 kilometers of bike paths and multiple hiking trails allow visitors to explore the park's diverse flora and fauna while enjoying outdoor activities.
Contact
Téléphone: 27 22 4 14059