ATLANTIC COAST…LIBERIA, SIERRA LEONE, GUINEA & GUINEA BISSAU
February 23 - March 13, 2025
Led by Professional Tour Manager, David William

This once-in-a-lifetime overland journey travels to the some of the best cultural, natural, and religious environments of West Africa’s Atlantic Coast. Traverse across an incredible variety of landscapes – from beaches and inland lagoons, along savannas and grassy plains to dense tropical forests and lush green mountains. During this multifaceted expedition, meet and interact with various ethnic groups including the Dan, Fula, and Guéré, a tribe well known for their masks that are considered a masterpiece of African art by many.

Begin in Freetown, Sierra Leone, a city that was founded by African Americans as a settlement for liberated slaves, to acquire a deep understanding of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. From the attractive Tokeh Beach, take a boat ride to the Banana Islands, inhabited by descendants of freed slaves from the Americas that settled here in the 18th and 19th centuries. Next, travel through stunning scenery to Bo, one of the most ethnically and religiously diverse cities in the country.

Travel along a scenic route through lush forests across the border into Liberia, founded by the Krio, freed slaves from the Americas that return to Africa. Spend some time in the capital city of Monrovia, founded in 1822 when it was settled by emancipated slaves from America and learn more about the history of the slave trade.

From Liberia’s northern border, venture off the tourist path and cross into Guinea through mountains and thick tropical forests to N’zerekore, a market town known for its silverwork. Visit a remote village for a rare chance to witness the sacred “Dance of the Bird Men.” This secret society of warriors believed to have powers of invisibility, paint their faces in Kaolin and wear costumes made of feathers. Another exciting dance is the Toma initiation dance, which celebrates a woman’s transition into adulthood. Explore the markets and villages of the Fouta Djallon, a region mostly inhabited by Muslim Fulani people. Meet the chief of a village and learn about the origins and traditions of his tribe.

Continue across the Guinea border into Guinea Bissau, West Africa’s only Portuguese-speaking country. Pass through tropical savannahs and interesting villages on the way to Gabu and stop at a village known for its musical talents. Navigate the Bijagos Archipelago, a stunning treasure comprising of 88 islands and inlets, and explore its lush tropical forests, coastal savannahs, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters. The ethnic groups that inhabit these islands have been shielded from outside influences and have managed to maintain their unique traditions including the Vaca Bruto dance, the most spectacular mask ceremony in the archipelago. End in the bustling capital city of Bissau to discover the strong Portuguese influence in the architecture and wander the city’s colorful main market.

For those who would like to experience more Atlantic Coast culture, consider adding on the extension that continues overland into Senegal and The Gambia, ending in Dakar.

Can be combined with Ivory Coast tour (February 12 - February 22, 2025) OR Rivers of West Africa (February 15 - February 23, 2025) AND Senegal & The Gambia Extension (March 13 - March 17, 2025)

Trip Grade:
II Active – Some hikes, slightly more demanding walks at or to sites, few elevations, comfortable, but busy schedule. Roads throughout this part of Africa are often poorly maintained and distances are long.

LODGING Level:
**-****: Basic to Superior – Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined service, and comfort level acceptable to western standards (2-4 stars). Two nights will be in fixed tents with beds and shared toilet/shower facilities. Some accommodations in rural areas will be best available.