Compare West African Discoverer by Dragoman vs Benin and Togo Voodoo Discovery by Explore!

Day 1: Dakar

Border information: if you are joining at Dakar, you will most likely enter Senegal at Dakar Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (IATA code: DKR).

Today is an arrival day with a pre departure meeting at 10:00am. Your leader will leave a note in reception telling you where this important meeting will take place. Your leader will collect your kitty and check your passport and insurance details at this meeting.

The afternoon will be free to explore the cosmopolitan city and perhaps take an optional trip to the famous Île de Goreé.

Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Dakar before the start of your trip with us- please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Dakar.

In Dakar we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities.

Day 2-3: St. Louis

Today we head north through the dry Sahel region to the old colonial city of St. Louis, formerly the capital of French West Africa.

Estimated Drive Time- 5-6 hours (please note that all drive times given here are the approximate number of hours that the truck will be in motion only, and does not include any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given with the best of intentions, the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police roadblocks, and many other factors- flexibility is essential on any overland trip!).

On the following day we will have a free day to explore the streets of the old city and take an optional trip to the Langue de Barbarie National Park or the nearby Djoudj Birdlife Reserve.

In St. Louis we will stay in a colonial-era hotel with good facilities.

Day 4-5: Touba, Toubakouta

Estimated Drive Time- 8-9 hours.

Today we start our journey south to the small town of Toubakouta, situated close to the Sine-Saloum Delta. On the way we will see the landscape change as we enter the greener wetland region, and we will stop to see the Grand Mosque of Touba, one of the best known mosques in Senegal and most holy site in the Mouride branch of Islam.

On our full day in Toubakouta we will have an optional morning pirogue trip to a nearby village to see a slice of rural Senegalese life and to meet their charismatic female chief. In the afternoon we have an included pirogue trip to the mangroves, the 'Shellfish Island' and the 'Island of Birds'- if the weather is good, there are often some stunning sunsets across the delta.

In Toubakouta we will camp in the grounds of a small locally-run hotel.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit the stunning Grand Mosque of Touba, one of Africa's largest mosques and the holiest site of the Mouride Brotherhood, a sect of Islam that focuses on hard work as a form of salvation
• Take an evening pirogue trip into the heart of the Sine-Saloum Delta to explore the fascinating islands and enjoy the spectacular sunset

Day 6-7: Tendaba

Estimated Drive Time- 6-9 hours (depending on the ferry crossing).

Border information: Exit Senegal at Karang, enter The Gambia at Fass.

Today we will head across the border from Senegal into the small country of The Gambia, then cross the Gambia River on a local transport barge to arrive at the famous Tendaba Camp on the southern shore of the Gambia River. The ferry can be quite a chaotic local experience! Tendaba Camp was the first inland hotel in The Gambia, and is one of the most popular spots in the country for birdwatchers.

Tendaba is located opposite the Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve, one of the premier birdwatching sites in Africa. On our full day here we will have an included morning boat trip into the wetlands to spot some of the stunning area's wildlife and natural scenery. We will also have an opportunity to take an optional safari drive around the nearby forests of Kiang West National Park.

In Tendaba we will stay in a basic guesthouse.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Explore deep into the stunning wetland delta of the Bao Balong Reserve on a motorised pirogue, discovering one of Africa's best birdwatching areas

Day 8-10: Cap Skirring

Estimated Drive Time- 7-8 hours.

Border information: Exit The Gambia at Soma, enter Senegal at Senoba.

Today we will cross the border into the southern Casamance region of Senegal, arriving at the beautiful beaches of Cap Skirring.

We will have 2 full days in Cap Skirring, where there will be good opportunities for optional activities such as swimming, biking, fishing, quad-biking and sun-bathing! While in Cap Skirring, your co-driver will travel to the nearby town of Ziguinchor to obtain Guinea-Bissau visas for the group at the consulate there.

In Cap Skirring we will camp in the grounds of a good beach hotel, where there will likely be the opportunity to upgrade to rooms.

Day 11-12: Bissau

Estimated Drive Time- 7-8 hours.

Border information: Exit Senegal at Mpack, enter Guinea Bissau at São Domingos.

Today we will drive across the border into the very rarely-visited country of Guinea-Bissau, and drive to its capital of Bissau.

On the following day, we will have time to freely explore the city and the old Portuguese centre of Bissau Velho.

In Bissau we will stay in a local hotel.

Day 13-15: Northern Guinea, Labé

Estimated Drive Times- 9-10 hours each day.

Border information: Exit Guinea-Bissau at Kandika, enter Guinea at Kandika.

From Bissau we will journey through Guinea-Bissau and into the remote hilly areas of northern Guinea on our way to the town of Labé, the gateway to the stunning Fouta Djallon highland region. The roads on this section are very challenging dirt roads which take us through some incredibly remote areas, and our speed will largely be determined by the state of these roads- although getting to these areas is very special and a great adventure, even more flexibility will be required on these days!

We will stop for 2 wild camps en route- the first is likely to be next to the Guinean border at Kandika, the second is likely to be in the highlands past the village of Seriba.

In Labé we will stay in a pleasant local hotel.

Day 16-17: Fouta Djallon, Labé

From Labé we will set off for an included 2-day excursion to the heart of the Fouta Djallon region of Guinea.

On the first day we will travel in 4x4 jeeps through very remote country roads to the small rural community of Aïnguel (approximately a 4 hour drive). After lunch there will be a short 3-hour trek to a waterfall viewpoint and to the nearby 'Pont de Pierre' rock bridge where we have the change to swim in a beautiful natural lagoon.

On this night we will stay in a very small and basic community-run guesthouse- please note that if the group is large, some people may need to sleep in tents just outside.

On the second day there is a long 8-hour trek through the surrounding hills and villages taking in the incredible scenery. We will stop for a picnic lunch next to a stunning waterfall, where we have the opportunity to swim in the lagoon beneath. In the latter stages of the trek, we hope to be able to get to the base of a much larger and incredibly powerful waterfall, although this is dependent on the ground waters having receded enough after the rainy season to make this route passable.

Upon returning after this walk, we will immediately drive back in the 4x4s to Labé to spend the night in our guesthouse there.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Guided 2-day excursion to the stunning highland region of Fouta Djallon, with treks through the scenic hills to the incredible waterfalls and local villages, and an overnight stay in a community guesthouse

Day 18: Mamou ( 28th Nov 2019)

Estimated Drive Time- 6-7 hours.

Leaving the Fouta Djallon region behind us, we head south through central Guinea to the town of Mamou.

In Mamou we will stay in a local guesthouse.

Day 19: Southern Guinea

Estimated Drive Time- 7-8 hours.

Today we will continue our drive south through Guinea, stopping to wild camp close to the border with Sierra Leone.

Day 20-21: Freetown Peninsula

Estimated Drive Time- 7-8 hours.

Border information: Exit Guinea at Pamalap, enter Sierra Leone at Kindia.

Today we leave Freetown for the stunning beaches of Freetown Peninsular, where we will spend 2 nights for some well-deserved relaxation after our journey through the tough roads of Guinea.

There are a few different options for which beaches we could choose to visit, our favourites being Bureh Beach at the south of the peninsular and River Number 2 Beach in the western part.

We will have a full day for optional activities on the wonderful beaches- we could go fishing, take a boat to explore the Banana Islands, get to know the local communities, and of course relax on the beautiful beaches!

On Freetown Peninsular we will camp on the beach, with some options to upgrade to basic guesthouses.

Day 22: Freetown

Estimated Drive Time- 3-4 hours.

Today we will have a short drive up the western side of the Freetown Peninsular to arrive in the Aberdeen district of the city of Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone.

In Freetown we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities.

Day 23: Freetown

Border information: if you are joining in Freetown, you will most likely enter Sierra Leone at Freetown Lungi International Airport (IATA code: FNA).

There will be an important group meeting at 10:00am at the joining hotel- please look out at the hotel reception for a note from your leader with more details about this important meeting. Your leader will collect your kitty and check your passport, visas, and insurance details at this meeting.

The afternoon will be free to explore Freetown and it's surroundings.

Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Freetown before the start of your trip with us- please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Freetown.

In Freetown we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities.

The fastest and most reliable way to Freetown from the airport is by water-taxi, as Lungi is across a bay from the city. The departure times for the water-taxis are linked to each flight in and out of the airport, so there will be transport available for you when you land. Exit the airport and walk to the right, and you'll see the water-taxi office at the end- you'll have to buy your ticket there for USD40 or EUR35, and check in your large bags. You'll take a minibus for 15 minutes, then the water-taxi for 30 minutes. The boat lands at the jetty, where you hand in your luggage ticket to get your large bags back.

The jetty is in the Aberdeen district of Freetown, only a 200m walk from our hotel. Just walk up the hill to the main road- the Raza Guesthouse is slightly further down and on the other side of the road.

Day 24-26: Freetown Peninsula

Estimated Drive Time- 2-3 hours (please note that all drive times given here are the approximate number of hours that the truck will be in motion only, and does not include any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given with the best of intentions, the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police roadblocks, and many other factors- flexibility is essential on any overland trip!).

Today we leave Freetown for the stunning beaches of Freetown Peninsular, where we will spend 3 nights.

There are a few different options for which beaches we could choose to visit, our favourites being Bureh Beach at the south of the peninsular and River Number 2 Beach in the western part.

We will have 2 full days for optional activities on the wonderful beaches- we could go fishing, take a boat to explore the Banana Islands, get to know the local communities, and of course relax on the beautiful beaches!

On Freetown Peninsular we will camp on the beach, with some options to upgrade to basic guesthouses.

Day 27-28: Tiwai Island Sanctuary

Estimated Drive Time- 9-10 hours.

Leaving the Freetown Peninsular behind, today we have a full day's drive through Sierra Leone to the Tiwai Island Sanctuary, one of Sierra Leone's largest inland islands.

On the following day, we will enjoy various nature walks through the web of trails that weave through the Tiwai forest. We'll be in search of the rare and colourful primates that inhabit the sanctuary, and if we're very lucky we may spot a very rare pygmy hippo!

In Tiwai we will stay for 2 nights sleeping in tents perched on covered platforms.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit the Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary, home to one of the densest populations of primates and pygmy hippos in Africa, and enjoy several included walks around the web of trails on the island

Day 29-30: Kabala

Estimated Drive Times- 6-8 hours each day.

Over the next 2 days we will travel north up through Sierra Leone to the small town of Kabala. Kabala is famous for being an oasis of cool air in the hills of northern Sierra Leone, and for its traditional Ronko-dyed clothes- shirts or gowns made of strips of cloth, typically dyed a rusty reddish-brown using local pigments.

We aim to wild camp near the town of Makeni en route, or we may stay in a local guesthouse depending on the size and wishes of the group. In Kabala we will stay in a basic local guesthouse.

Day 31-32: Faranah, Gberia Fotombu

Estimated Drive Times- 5-8 hours each day.

Border information: Exit Sierra Leone and enter Guinea at Gberia-Fotombu.

The next 2 days we will spend travelling through the remote border region between Sierra Leone and Guinea, driving through scenic areas very rarely visited by tourists and wild camping for a night en route. We will arrive at the small Guinean town of Faranah on the second day.

The road conditions in this area can be pretty tough going and unpredictable, and progress can be greatly affected by the weather conditions, so flexibility is very important over these days.

We will wild camp en route for the first night, and stay in a local guesthouse in Faranah on the second night.

Day 33: Guéckédou, Macenta

Estimated Drive Time- 7-9 hours.

Today we will travel through the central region of Guinea, stopping for a night in one of the towns en route (depending on how the drive goes, this may be Macenta or Guéckédou).

In Macenta or Guéckédou we will stay in a small locally-run hotel.

Day 34-35: Nzerekoré, Forested Guinea

Estimated Drive Time- 8-10 hours.

Today we will continue through the forested region of Guinea, visiting one of the famous vine bridges (Pont de Liana) en route. We will arrive at the small town of Nzerekoré in the heart of Guinea's Forest Region.

On the following day, we will have free time to explore the town, the nearby villages and the surrounding forests.

In Nzerekoré we will stay in a small locally-run guesthouse.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Trek to the Pont de Liana, one of the phenomenal old vine bridges in the forested region of Guinea

Day 36-37: Western Côte d'Ivoire

Estimated Drive Times- 7-9 hours each day.

Border information: Exit Guinea at Gbakoré, enter Côte d'Ivoire at Gbapleu.

The next 2 days are spent crossing the border and driving through central Côte d'Ivoire. These days take us through some very remote areas and some very poor quality dirt roads, so a great deal of flexibility is needed as our progress will largely be determined by the state of the roads.

Both nights will be spent wild camping en route.

Day 38-39: Korhogo

Estimated Drive Time- 7-8 hours.

Today we will drive through the lush countryside to the northern Ivorian town of Korhogo, famed for the multitude of crafts that are made there.

On the following day, we will head out on an included tour around many of the handicraft workshops in the area, visiting painters, bead makers, wood carvers and cloth weavers. We will also have time to freely explore the town and its surroundings.

In Korhogo we will stay in a small local hotel.

Day 40: Yamoussoukro

Estimated Drive Time- 6-7 hours.

Today we will drive to Yamoussoukro, the tiny and bizarre capital of Côte d'Ivoire. Yamoussoukro was the birthplace of Felix Houphouët-Boigny, the first president of independent Côte d'Ivoire, and is also the unusual location of the colossal and breathtaking Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, the largest Christian church in the world.

In the afternoon will have an included visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, and then have free time to further explore the small city.

In Yamoussoukro we will stay in a local hotel.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit the opulent Basilique de Notre Dame de la Paix, the largest Christian place of worship in the world

Day 41-43: Grand Bassam

Estimated Drive Time- 7-8 hours.

Today we will drive to the Atlantic coast, arriving at the old French colonial capital of Grand Bassam situated east of Abidjan.

On the following two days, we will have free time to explore the old colonial town and to relax on the beautiful beaches around our hotel.

In Grand Bassam we will stay in a local hotel on the beach.

Day 44-45: Elmina

Estimated Drive Time- 7-8 hours.

Border information: Exit Côte d'Ivoire at Elubo, enter Ghana at Elubo.

Today we cross into Ghana and then head east along the Atlantic coast to the beaches of Beru Akyinim near the historic town of Elmina.

On the following day, we will get involved with the currently community projects being run in the Elmina area by the SABRE Charitable Trust. The Trust does very valuable work in developing educational projects across Ghana, with a focus on providing early-years education- we have been visiting their projects and providing a day of help and a donation for many years, allowing us to give a little back and to experience a wonderful bit of community interaction. The exact experience will depend on what the Trust has a need for at the time, but we could be asked to help to paint a classroom, do a bit of gardening in one of the schools, or simply come and play some games with the kids!

We will also have time for an optional visit to Elmina Castle and to relax on the beautiful beaches on Ghana's Atlantic Coast.

In Elmina we will camp at a stunning beach resort.

Day 46: Kakum National Park, Cape Coast

Estimated Drive Time- 2-4 hours.

Today we will head into the nearby town of Cape Coast for a fascinating and moving tour of the old slave fort there.

We will then drive inland to the rainforests of Kakum National Park. On arrival we will head out on an included evening walk through the forests in search of wildlife, bugs and snakes! We may also have the chance to visit a small animal sancutary or stingless bee centre en route.

In Kakum National Park we will camp in the grounds of the Park HQ.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Explore the incredible rainforest canopy from the unique suspended bridges in Kakum National Park

Day 47-48: Kumasi, Kakum National Park

Estimated Drive Time- 5-6 hours.

Today we have an early start with an included morning visit to the Kakum National Park canopy walkways. These are a long series of hanging bridges at the forest canopy level that gives us a unique perspective of the rainforest- and at that time of the morning we will have the place to ourselves!

We will then journey north through Ghana's interior to the historic town of Kumasi.

On the following day, we will have lots of time for free exploration of the fascinating town and its museums. Kumasi is the home of West Africa's largest market and was the centre of the Ashanti Kingdom.

In Kumasi we will stay in a local guesthouse.

Day 49: Accra

Estimated Drive Time- 6-7 hours.

Today we will drive to Accra, the chaotic capital of Ghana! We will have free time on arrival to explore the city.

In Accra we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities.

Day 50: Accra

Border information: if you are joining in Accra, then you will most likely enter Ghana at Accra Kotoka International Airport (IATA code: ACC).

There will be an important group meeting at 10:00am at the joining hotel- please look out at the hotel reception for a note from your leader with more details about this important meeting. Your leader will collect your kitty and check your passport, visas, and insurance details at this meeting.

The afternoon will be free to explore the city of Accra.

Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Accra before the start of your trip with us- please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Accra.

In Accra we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities.

Day 51: Akosombo

Estimated Drive Time- 3-4 hours (please note that all drive times given here are the approximate number of hours that the truck will be in motion only, and does not include any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given with the best of intentions, the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police roadblocks, and many other factors- flexibility is essential on any overland trip!).

This morning, we will apply for Togo visas at the Togolese Embassy in Accra. Once they are issued, we will leave Accra and head north to the village of Akosombo.

In Akosombo we will stay in a campsite next to the River Volta.

Day 52: Lake Volta, Akosombo

Today we will have an included visit to the nearby Akosombo Dam, a major project built in the 1960s to provide almost all of Ghana's energy needs. The rest of the day will be free to relax at our campsite in Akosombo.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit Akosombo Dam, the colossal 1960s project that provides almost all of Ghana's energy needs and created Lake Volta, one of the world's largest man-made lakes

Day 53: Mont Klouto

Estimated Drive Time- 5-6 hours.

Border information: Exit Ghana at Klouto, enter Togo at Klouto.

Today we will have a full day's drive to the spectacular Mont Klouto, crossing the border into Togo.

In Mont Klouto we will stay in a campsite, with the option to upgrade to dorm accommodation.

Day 54: Mont Klouto

Today we will have a free day around the beautiful Mont Klouto region, with the opportunity to head out on optional forest walks or to visit Kpalimé town nearby.

In the evening, we will head to the village centre to see a spectacular show of drumming and dancing from the local villagers.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• An evening of energetic drumming and dancing from the local villagers in Mont Klouto

Day 55: Central Togo

Estimated Drive Times- 6-7 hours each day.

Over the next 2 days we will drive up the length of Togo, all the way through the remote northern border with Benin. We will wild camp for 1 night en route.

Day 56: Tata Somba region

Estimated Drive Time- 6-7 hours.

Border information: Exit Togo at Ketao, enter Benin at Ouaké.

Today we will cross the border into Benin, before continuing our journey to the Tata Somba region close to the town of Tanguiéta.

In Tanguiéta we will stay in a basic local eco-lodge.

Day 57: Tata Somba region

This morning we will go on an included walking tour of the nearby Tata Somba villages with some of the local villagers. This is a fascinating visit to an area rarely visited by tourists, where we will learn a lot about the local traditional way of life and explore the famous two-storey mud huts of the area.

In the afternoon, there is the option to walk through the stunning area to some nearby waterfalls.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Go on a guided tour of the Tata Somba villages of northern Benin, learning about the traditional culture and way of life and visiting their incredible 2-storey 'mud castle' homes

Day 58-59: Pendjari National Park

Estimated Drive Time- 4-5 hours to the park, then as much time as required on game drives.

From the Tata Somba region we have a short journey north to the beautiful Pendjari National Park.

We will stay for two nights wild camping in the National Park, where we will have freedom to explore and head out on game drives in the truck in search of wildlife.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit the stunning landscapes of Pendjari National Park, famous for being one of the best wildlife reserves in West Africa

Day 60: Central Benin

Estimated Drive Time- 8-10 hours.

Today we have a full day's drive heading south through Benin. We will wild camp somewhere en route between the towns of Natitingou and Abomey.

Day 61-62: Abomey

Estimated Drive Time- 6-7 hours.

Our journey today continues to Abomey, the ancient capital of the Dahomey kingdom. On arrival we will take an included tour of the Dahomey Palace and Museum. We will then have a free day to explore the local area.

In Abomey we will stay in a campsite, with the possibility to upgrade to rooms for 2 nights.

Day 63: Ganvie

Estimated Drive Time- 6-8 hours.

This morning we will drive to Abomey-Calavi (a port on the outskirts of Cotonou), where we say goodbye to the truck for the night and jump aboard motorised pirogues to Ganvie, a fascinating town built entirely on stilts in the middle of Lake Nokoué.

In Ganvie we will stay in a basic hotel in the stilt village itself!

Day 64: Ouidah, Ganvie

Estimated Drive Time- 1-3 hours.

Today we will start with an included tour of the stilt town of Ganvie, exploring deeper on our pirogues and soaking up the unique way of life in the floating village. Following this, we will head back to land to re-join the truck and drive along the coastal road to Ouidah, where we may hopefully see many of the local fishermen bringing their catch in.

In Ouidah we will camp at an auberge on the beach.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit to the incredible stilt village of Ganvie, where an entire community of fisherman live in a town entirely built on stilts in the middle of Lake Noukoe near Cotonou

Day 65: Grand Popo, Ouidah

Estimated Drive Time- 1-2 hours.

Today we will take a very interesting half-day tour of the sites in Ouidah, including the Voodoo Python Temple, the "Route des Esclaves" (Slave Route), La Maison du Brésil art gallery and the Ouidah Museum of History in the old Portuguese Fort of São João Baptista de Ajudá.

After this, a short drive from Ouidah brings us to Grand Popo, where we have 2 nights of well deserved relaxation on the beaches!

In Grand Popo we will camp at an auberge.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• See the Vodun Temple of Pythons in Ouidah, dedicated to the voodoo snake diety Dangbe and home to hundreds of revered pythons!
• Half-day tour of Ouidah, including the museums and exhibitions at La Maison Bresil, learning about the history of slavery on the 'Route des Esclaves' and the Point of No Return, and a visit to the voodoo Snake Temple.

Day 66: Grand Popo

Today we will have a free day at Grand Popo for relaxing on the beach or taking a pirogue trip around the nearby ocean and mangroves.

There is also an option this evening to visit an incredible local vodun (voodoo) ceremony in the nearby village, complete with very energetic dancing and incredible magic tricks! It may also be possible to take a night walk in search of Atlantic turtles, which lay their eggs on the beaches between November and March.

Day 67: Agbodrafo

Estimated Drive Time- 2-3 hours.

Border information: Exit Benin and re-enter Togo at Hilla-Condji.

Leaving the beach behind, our journey continues over the border from Benin and back into Togo. We will head to the small quiet town of Agbodrafo on the southern shores of Lake Togo.

This afternoon we will take an included pirogue trip to Togoville, the centre of Vodun culture, where you will have a guided city tour and church visit.

In Agbodrafo we will camp in the grounds of an auberge on the lake shore.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Trip in a local non-motorised pirogue across Lac Togo to Togoville, where you can explore the town and learn all about it's history and culture

Day 68: Keta

Estimated Drive Time- 4-5 hours.

Border information: exit Togo at Lomé, enter Ghana at Aflao.

Today we will cross back into Ghana and head for Keta, where we will visit the very atmospheric and evocative ruins of the abondoned Fort Prinzenstein, built by the Danes 300 years ago as a transit point for transporting slaves to the Americas.

In Keta we will stay in a small local hotel.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit the ruins of the small Danish slave fort of Fort Prinzenstein, and take in its haunting and moving atmosphere

Day 69: Accra

Estimated Drive Time- 4-5 hours.

The final drive of this trip takes us back to Accra, the chaotic capital of Ghana!

In Accra we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities.

Day 70: Accra

Border information: if you are leaving in Accra, you will most likely exit Ghana at Accra Kotoka International Airport (IATA code: ACC).

Today is the end day for passengers finishing their trip in Accra. Please note there is no accommodation included on the trip tonight- please contact the Sales Team if you are interested in booking extra nights of accommodation in order to fully explore and take part in some of the optional activities listed below.

Day 1 Join trip in Lome

Arrive in Lome, the lively capital of Togo. For those arriving on time our tour leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for the welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. There are no other activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Lome at any time. If you would like to receive a airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Gnassingbe Eyadema International Airport (LFW), which is about 15 minutes' drive from the airport. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your Leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up. If you have free time on arrival then you may choose to walk through the bustling streets, relax or visit the Museum of the Arts 'Palais de Lome'. Dating back over 100 years, the building has been used as the French governors residence, the seat of Togolese presidency and also the residence of the Prime Minister before being abandoned. The 11 hectare park surrounding the palace is now home to a number of gardens and sculptures. We would suggest speaking to the hotel reception if you would like to visit so that they can assist with arranging a taxi.

Meals Provided : None

Day 2 Lome city tour; drive to Kpalime, visit the centre of artisans.

After breakfast and our welcome meeting, we will kick off our West African adventure with a guided tour of the capital city of Togo. Once an important landmark within West Africa's notorious slave trade, Togo was colonised in the 15th century and this can still be seen today in the faded European architecture and tree-lined boulevards. We'll visit the colourful market and Togo's famed fetish market where locals and voodoo priests alike can source anything from good luck charms to animal skulls to aid their pursuit of bringing themselves good fortune and health. The market can be extremely busy, on most departures we visit on a Sunday so its a little quieter. Time permitting we will also make a stop at one of Lome's craft markets and its imposing gothic cathedral building. Bidding the capital farewell, we will drive north to Kpalime, Togo's fourth largest city which is surrounded by tropical forest. This area is Togo's biggest producer of artisanal items including pottery, weaved items and wood sculpture, and we'll visit the Centre of Artisans to see their work (if the day is running late we can visit the Centre of Artisans the following day). Tonight we stay in a simple guesthouse thirty minutes from Kpalime. The guesthouse has en-suite bathrooms (cold water only) and fans but no air conditioning. It has a terrace with great views over the forest. Our friendly hosts generally offer a choice of two options for dinner, the food is locally sourced its often possible to drop into the kitchen to see what is being prepared. Drift off to sleep with the sounds of the forest around you.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

Day 3 Guided butterfly walk in the countryside. Continue to Sokode to witness a elaborate fire dance

Set off after breakfast for a guided hike through the countryside. Following well-marked tracks we will hike for around two hours guided by a butterfly expert. Along the trails we will learn about the important and delicate eco-system in the surrounding adjacent forest, where over 500 species of butterfly can be found. The walk is mainly flat terrain but will be humid and warm, so insect repellent and sun protection is recommended. This afternoon we drive north to Sokode for approximately five hours. As we travel we get a good insight into the country's culture as we stop to visit local villages, experiencing the smells and sounds of the colourful markets; one such market is found at Atakpame, a cross roads town and our lunch stop. The settlement has a lively market where we can usually stumble on elaborate weaving demonstrations. In the evening we witness a traditional Fire Dance. Dancing to the hypnotic beat of the drum, the dancers eventually leap into the glowing embers. They then pick up burning coals and pass them over their body and mouth without showing any pain or injury. Whether it is a matter of courage or magic, witnessing these rituals is a real privilege and a truly interesting experience. Our hotel tonight does not offer twin bed configuration rooms, we will therefore offer only a double or single bedded room. If you are a solo traveller booking on a twin share basis (sharing with someone of the same gender) you will be allocated a single room.

Meals Provided : Breakfast & Lunch

Day 4 Drive to the Bassar region. Visit the clay houses and learn about the iron production

Today we travel towards Kara. Along the way we'll stop to meet the Bassar people. The Bassar live in traditional large clay houses with conical roofs and are known for their production of iron. Strict rules have to be followed, only old women should provide the coal needed, which they collect from the mountains surrounding the villages. According to their belief, the iron would only melt under particular circumstances and if a strict code of conduct is observed. Our tour leader will see if it's possible to meet a traditional Chief who will talk to us about their role in the society and leading their village, it is traditional for the chief to welcome new guest to the village and give a blessing however it should be noted this is not a touristic activity and the chief may not be available on the day of our visit. We'll arrive in Kara in the early evening. Our hotel is an old government building, we stay in the bungalows in the gardens. The hotel features a swimming pool and has a good restaurant, although there are also several dining options in Kara as well.

Meals Provided : Breakfast & Lunch

Day 5 Visit the Tamberma people in the Atakora mountains and the blacksmiths of the Kabye region

This morning we will continue our journey north, entering a more mountainous arid region. Leaving the main road, we enter the land of the proud Tamberma people that live in fortified dwellings. Similar in form to medieval castles, they are one of the most beautiful examples of ancient African architecture, built by hand, layer by layer, by placing round balls of mud and shaping them according to the design and flair of the owner. The Tamberma people hold strong tradition beliefs, evidenced through the presence of large shrines in phallic form, displayed at the entrance of their homes. Subject to permission, we'll enter their homes to gain an insight into their way of life. Houses are a projection of their anthropology and cosmology beliefs; the first ground, enveloped in darkness, represents the death, it is the place of the ancestors. The second floor, open to the sky, represents life. As well as a home, the house is a place of refuge. All the family, food and animals are kept within in the house for the survival of the family group, in case of attack. For centuries these populations have been seeking refuge in the hard to access Atakora mountain to escape from slave trade. After a picnic lunch we drive back to Kara, through a mountainous region where the Kabye people reside. The Kabye are excellent blacksmiths who still work with traditional methods that have been lost in the Western world.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 Travel into Benin, visit the remote village of Taneka, continue to Djogou

This morning will be an early start to be begin our journey into Benin via Ketao. Our destination is the village of Taneka, located in a upland range with the same name. The village is made up of round houses covered with a conical roof protected at the top by a terra cotta pot. The upper part of the village is inhabited by the young, accompanied by fetish priests, who cover themselves with a goat skin and always carry a long pipe. This ethnic group has been living on an archaeological site inhabited since the ninth century. Since then other populations have moved in, the result is a melting-pot of tribes and cultures, where each group has kept its own cults and initiation rites, overlaid by a common religious and political institution. As we wander around the village we may come across half naked men. The Taneka people believe that in order to "become" a man, it is necessary to combine time, patience and a lot of blood from sacrificed animals. It is a lifetime process, in the sense that life itself becomes a rite of passage. As a consequence, life should not be considered conditioned by a "before" and an "after" but rather as following a continuous path. Our walk can last between two and three hours, along mainly flat alleys some of which are narrow and have rocky uneven steps. We drive back to Djogou mid afternoon. Hotel options in northern Benin are very limited. Our simple hotel in Djogou does not offer air conditioning or twin bed rooms, we will therefore offer only a double or single bedded room. If you are a solo traveller booking on a twin share basis (sharing with someone of the same gender) you will be allocated a single room for this night.

Meals Provided : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 Drive south to Dassa stopping en route to meet the Fulani people and witness a Dankoli shrine

Today is a travelling day, with several stops en-route. Departing early, we drive south; with the intention of stopping at a Fulani settlement along the way. The Fulani are mainly shepherds, the men move around with their herds while the women take care of the camp and milk the cows to produce butter to be sold at the local market. The Fulani are famous for their beauty. „ Fulani„ means „ beauty.„ in the local dialect. Beautiful tattoos on their face send messages to the people who understand the language. Their beauty is proportional to their slowness, they seem to be slower than anybody else and at the same time they cover more ground through their nomadic lifestyle than anybody else. Here is the mystery of a people who learnt how to tame time and space, history and geography. Just before our arrival in Dassa, we will make a stop at the Dankoli fetish, an important place of Voodoo cult where thousands of little sticks are pushed in the fetish as witnesses of the countless prayers made to the local god to satisfy their everyday needs, a good harvest, a happy wedding, an easy delivery, a success at school. Once their prayers are answered, they come back to sacrifice what they promised to the fetis, this could be a goat, a chicken or a cow, according to the nature of the prayer. Traces of blood, palm alcohol and palm oil on the fetish prove that a lot of pilgrims had their prayers answered. Please note you may witness the slaughtering of animals as part of your visit to the Dankoli shrines, if you feel uncomfortable about this speak to your tour leader to make alternative arrangements.

Meals Provided : Breakfast & Lunch

Day 8 Visit the town of Dassa and then the Royal Palace of Abomey

We start our day exploring Dassa, which used to be the capital of an ancient kingdom in 1385, by visiting Sacred Hill where funerals for the royal family take place accompanied by Voodoo practices. The town is full of history, our tour leader will share the story of the infamous wooden horse which dates back from the middle ages and is still preserved to this day. We'll the drive three hours to the town of Abomey, where we'll visit the Royal Palace with our leader to discover the ornate majesty that was once the Dan-Homey dynasty. Now a museum, the Palace walls are still decorated with bas-reliefs representing the symbols of the Dahomey kings and its halls and rooms hold the thrones and altars, statues and arms of a kingdom that lived in a perpetual state of war and built its greatness on the slavery of its neighbours. In the centre of the royal courtyard is the House of Pearls, a temple built by king Glele to honour his father's spirit, the walls made from a mixture of clay and human blood. This evening we will have a cookery class at the Masse Hotel. Our hotel for the next two nights does not offer twin bed configuration rooms, we will therefore offer only a double or single bedded room. If you are a solo traveller booking on a twin share basis (sharing with someone of the same gender) you will be allocated a single room. 2024 departures - the Royal Palace is undergoing refurbishment at the time of writing the reopening date has not been set, however there is still plenty to see. Abomey was the capital of the Kingdom of Dahomey from the 17th to 19th centuries, well known for its skilled blacksmiths. We will take a tour of the town, seeking permission to visit one of the traditional workshops to learn more about their skills and hear about the history of this once powerful capital. We will still be able to see the Royal Palaces of Abomey from the outside and if some of the artefacts from the museum are on display at another location, we will do our best to try and view them.

Meals Provided : Breakfast & Lunch

Day 9 See the incredible Egun and Gelede mask ceremonies

This morning we are lucky enough to witness an Egun mask performance in nearby Cove. According to the local tradition, people perform the rituals not only to represent but also to embody the spirits of the ancestors. Dressed in bright, colourful costumes, they emerge from the forest and form a procession through the village streets. We'll have lunch in Cove. This afternoon we also have the opportunity to visit a Gelede mask ceremony back in Abomey. A cult to the great divinity Oudua, the earth mother, Gelede is a cult, a secret society and a type of mask all at the same time. The brightly coloured masks represent the bridge between the society and the ordinary villagers and are comprised of a head with large eyes and sensual lips over which are an animated collection of characters and objects that tell stories, to the accompaniment of a choir and an excited audience. This is a really special day as we encounter contrasting ceremonies, both very different and yet equally memorable, please note that the exact timings of the day may be amended and some flexibility is required, we may see the second mask ceremony on the morning of day ten.

Meals Provided : Breakfast & Lunch

Day 10 Travel to incredible stilt village of Ganvie to spend a night in a stilt guesthouse

Our departure time will depend on mask ceremony the day before. We spend this morning travelling by bus and boat to Ganvie, the largest stilt village in Africa. Settled by the Tofinou people, fleeing the slave traders of the 16th century, the village today is an atmospheric setting of thatched huts, balanced on stilts of teak, where daily life is still very much conducted on the waters of the lake. Fishing is still the principal activity for the inhabitants and every day the men go about their business, whilst women deliver their goods to the floating market and children go to school and play from the backs of open pirogues. But even amidst this tranquil aquatic idyll voodoo plays its part; after a relaxing afternoon we'll meet a local Bokono oracle, a village soothsayer, this evening. We'll learn how these traditional people are guided through life by the drums and dancing of voodoos haunting rhythm. Tonight, we stay in a very basic stilt house which we get to by sailing across the lake. It's the most basic accommodation of the trip, with no air conditioning and only limited running water; the experience provides a great insight into how the community of Ganvie live their daily lives.

Meals Provided : Breakfast & Lunch

Day 11 Visit Ouidah, the spiritual home of Voodoo; drive to Grand Popo

We'll depart Ganvie after breakfast, and travel by boat and bus on to the town of Ouidah, considered to be the spiritual home of voodoo. Once an infamous part of the old slave route, Ouidah was the site of one of the largest trading posts, supplying slaves to Europe and its outlying colonies. The echoes and ghosts of those infamous days still reverberate today, in its Afro-Portuguese architecture. We aim to spend some of our time here visiting the museum at the Old Portuguese Fort and taking a walk along the slave route to the beach, where the unfortunate victims were loaded aboard the slave ships. We will also visit the remarkable Python Temple, where Ouidah's ancient snake cult is still very much in evidence. Snakes are still an important feature of many voodoo rituals, believed to be able to imbue vitality and protection. Later we head east for two more hours towards the Gulf of Benin where we'll stay in Grand Popo.

Meals Provided : Breakfast & Lunch

Day 12 Benin coast, Mono river estuary and Zangbeto dancing mask ceremony

Discover the Mono river estuary in a small motorboat, passing tiny villages where the old way of extracting salt is still practiced. Our journey leads us along the river to where it meets the ocean, we cross the lagoon through forests of mangroves. Later we head to a small village where we will see our last mask ceremony, the Zangbeto. The masks for this ceremony are full body, straw decorations and the wearers of these masks keep their identity hidden as part of a secret society of traditional Voodoo guardians. Lunch will be in Grand Popo, the rest of the day is free. There is plenty to do in Grand Popo, there is an expansive which stretches all the way to the border with Togo, it is possible to hire a local guide to walk along the beach dotted with traditional vishing villages. Along the main coastal road there are a number of local bars and studio's, it is possible to take part in a dancing or drumming lesson should you wish.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

Day 13 Return into Togo, visit Aneho, continue to Lome

Later this morning we'll cross the border back into Togo, where we'll continue for a short while before stopping in the town of Aneho, a region with many lakes and villages with shrines and fetishes, and there may be an opportunity to watch a Voodoo ceremony. During such a ritual we will see traditional dancers falling into a deep trance at the hypnotic rhythm of drums. After the ceremony we meet a traditional healer who treat the patients with voodoo rites and herbs. Later this afternoon we continue to the capital, Lome where we spend our last night.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

Day 14 Trip ends in Lome

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Lome. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Lome at any time. If your flight is departing early in the morning, breakfast will be served very early. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. There may be the option to pay for a day room at €30, which is subject to availability at the hotel. If you would like to receive an airport transfer today, you need to depart from Lome Tokoim International Airport (LFW), which is about 15 minutes' drive from the airport.

Meals Provided : Breakfast