GHANA, TOGO AND BENIN
“Voodoo Festival & Cultural Immersions”
January 08 - January 22, 2025
Led by Tour Lecturer, Mohamed Halouani
Uncover three of West Africa’s most colorful destinations on this special overland tour through Ghana, Togo, and Benin, each offering diverse cultures and traditions, varied wildlife, and their own distinct historical pasts. Venture off the main tourist trail to truly experience native life and blend in with the locals at every opportunity. Visit ancient cultural sites and colonial era structures, learn about the dark historical past of the slave trade, and appreciate the unspoiled natural rainforests and pristine beaches that line the coast.
Beginning in Ghana’s capital city, Accra, wander the local market and admire the local artisans’ creative works. See the unique “Fantasy Coffins,” burial masterpieces designed in a variety of shapes according to the profession or clan of the deceased such as a car, airplane, cell phone, alligator, lion, etc.
Cross into Togo to explore the bustling city of Lomé and discover the Akodessewa Fetish Market, an integral component of Togo culture.
In Ouidah, Benin, engage in the thriving cultural traditions of the colorful Fête du Vodoun (Voodoo Festival) and feel the energy of the lively dances. Next, visit one of Benin’s most beautiful communities at Ganvie, known as the “Venice of West Africa.” In Abomey, explore the 16th century underground dwellings of Agongointo-Zoungoudo, built to protect the locals from invaders or provide a hideout for surprise attacks against the enemy.
Cross back through Togo and return to Ghana to observe the Wli Waterfalls, the highest in West Africa surrounded by a lush, semi-deciduous forest. Visit the village of Tafi Atome, a community dedicated to protecting the endangered mona monkeys and spend a few days in Kumasi, an excellent base from which to indulge in the culture and discover some important UNESCO Sites. Ghana is the birthplace of the rich colorful Kente cloth and some of the country’s finest are produced at Adanwomasi. On the journey south towards the “Gold Coast” to the historic city of Elmina, stop to visit Assin Manso, once an important town for the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Before returning to Accra where the tour ends, take part in an exciting rainforest canopy walk at Kakum National Park and learn how to create batik garments using traditional techniques.
Can be combined with Niger tour (January 22 - February 03, 2025) AND Nigeria tour (February 03 - February 12, 2025) AND Ivory Coast tour (February 12 - February 22, 2025)
Tour cost (Land ONLY):$6,995.00
per person sharing in double occupancy
Single Supplement: $895.00
Price based on group size minimum of 6 participants and maximum of 12 participants
Tour Includes
Airport/hotel/airport transfers.
Accommodation in hotels mentioned.
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch and D: Dinner).
Transportation in minibus with A/C or 4x4 vehicles.
English speaking guide and local guides at the various villages.
Entrance fees to all historical sites and museums.
Bottled water on touring days.
Escort of a tour manager (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Gratuities to guides, drivers, hotel & restaurant staff, and porters (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Tour Does Not Include
International Airfare USA to and from Accra.
Visa: Ghana (currently through Washington DC - $100), Togo (currently e-visa - $55.00 (multiple entry)), & Benin (currently e-visa - $53.00) all subject to change.
Beverages with or without meals and meals not mentioned.
Yellow Fever or any other required vaccines.
Items of a personal nature (camera fees, laundry, excess luggage, etc.).
Transfers if not arriving/departing on tour dates.
Dayroom/overnights necessitated by changes in airline schedules or misconnections.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
Gratuity to your tour Lecturer (optional).
Travel protection insurance (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED).
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 driving distances are long.
LODGING Level:
**-**** Basic-Superior: Lodges and hotels with additional a nities, refined service, and comfort level acceptable to western standards (2 to 4 stars). Some accommodations in rural areas will be best available.
Tour Remarks:
• Tourist infrastructure and facilities outside the cities are very limited & often quite primitive.
• Hotels may change at the last minute without prior notice due to reasons beyond our control.
• In the more remote areas, hotels will be basic with few amenities and possible equipment failure such as no hot water, broken toilet handles, clogged drains, etc.
• Air-conditioners in this part of the world do not cool a room to American standards of comfort.
• Brownouts or blackouts may occur or there may be limited electricity available.
• This trip involves long drives in hot weather over poorly maintained and bumpy roads.
• The slaughtering of animals is an integral part of the Voodoo culture, but may be disturbing to visitors.
• There are a lack of modern medical facilities and chronic health problems should be discussed with your physician before joining this tour.
• A high level of flexibility, tolerance, respect, open-mindedness, sense of adventure, and willingness to go with the flow if things change is expected while visiting these countries.
• Travel protection insurance is highly recommended for this tour.
