About
The Pont Général de Gaulle is a major bridge in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, spanning the Ébrié Lagoon to link the Plateau and Marcory districts. It is also known as the De Gaulle Bridge and as Pont HKB.
What to expect
For most people the bridge is first a route. It carries a heavy share of the traffic moving between the business centre on the Plateau and the residential and commercial areas of Marcory, so it is an important part of daily life in the city. Its role as a landmark, however, is what makes it worth a deliberate visit. The crossing gives scenic views over the lagoon, with the water and the surrounding city opening out on either side.
Making the most of a visit
- Walk or drive across to take in the lagoon from above, and note how the two districts meet at the water.
- Time your trip to avoid the busiest traffic periods, since the bridge is an important transport link.
- Combine it with a stop on the Plateau or in Marcory, depending on which side you start from.
A visit here suits anyone interested in how Abidjan is laid out around its lagoon. It is a practical stop rather than a destination in itself, and it pairs easily with exploring either district on foot or by car.