ATLANTIC COAST…LIBERIA, SIERRA LEONE, GUINEA & GUINEA BISSAU
January 29 - February 16, 2024
Led by Lecturer and Historian, Mohamed Halouani

This once-in-a-lifetime overland journey travels to the some of the best cultural, natural, and religious environments of the West Africa’s Atlantic Coast. Traverse across an incredible variety of landscapes – from beaches and inland lagoons and 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 Monrovia, Liberia, founded in 1822 when it was settled by emancipated slaves from America and learn about the history of the slave trade. Drive west along Liberia’s southern coast to the quiet fishing village of Robertsport, a small town situated on the Cape Mount Peninsula.

Cross the border into Sierra Leone and travel through stunning scenery to Bo, one of the most ethnically and religiously diverse cities in the country. The route continues back towards the coast for an exciting wooden boat ride to the Banana Islands. The inhabitants of today are descendants of freed slaves from the Americas that settled here in the 18th and 19th centuries. In Freetown, another settlement of freed slaves, acquire a deep understanding of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade.

Traveling along the coast and along river deltas, cross into Guinea to the major port capital city of Conakry. From here, venture off the tourist path and travel along rolling grasslands and through the jungle, stopping to visit spectacular waterfalls to the Fouta Djallon region, home of the Fulani ethnic group. This is an excellent place to indulge in West African culture.

The journey continues across the Guinea border into Guinea Bissau, West Africa’s only Portuguese-speaking country. Travel through tropical savannahs and pass interesting villages on the way to the Gabu region, home to a Fulani Muslim community. 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. They are known for their fascinating Bijago tribal art used in ritual practices. End in bustling Bissau, the main port city for fishing in the country. See the strong Portuguese influence in the architecture and come together with the locals at the city’s 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 (January 19 - 29, 2024 OR Niger (January 20 - 28, 2024) AND Nigeria Highlights (January 10 - 19, 2024) OR post tour extension of Senegal & The Gambia (February 16 - 20, 2024)

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.