COTE D’IVOIRE (IVORY COAST)…A Heritage of Tribes, Dances, and Masks
January 04 - January 14, 2023
Led by Tour Manager David William
As one of Africa’s most recent additions to tourism, the Ivory Coast was out of bounds for years due to political conflict, but is now once again accessible to intrepid travelers who are looking to delve into the amazing diversity of West African culture. This is a journey full of surprises to a land that can rightly be considered truly "off the beaten track.” Situated on the Atlantic coast of West Africa, Côte d'Ivoire - or Ivory Coast as some may call it, provides a range of landscapes that is sure to please - from the beaches and inland lagoons in the south and dense tropical forests in the southwest; along savannas and grassy plains inland; to impressive montane forested mountains in the north. The country also has a fascinating cultural heritage and you will spend time with different ethnic groups such as the talented Baulé, a group known for their unrivaled masks and human sculptures, and the Senoufo another artistic group who’s highly prized sculptures were an inspiration for Pablo Picasso’s “African Period.” Notice each ethnic group’s own style of music when you take part in colorful tribal festivals, rituals, initiations, and amazing mask dances such as the mesmerizing “Dance of Goli Masks” and the energetic Boloy Mask Dance, also known as the “Panther Dance.” We’ll also visit a remote village to learn about an ancient iron-melting technique and discover villages that have little interaction with foreign visitors.
This trip is an exceptional program for those looking to dive deep into African culture with a strong interest in unique mask dances virtually unkown to the western world.
Can be combined with Nigeria Highlights (January 13 - January 21, 2023) AND Niger (January 22 - January 29, 2023)
Tour Cost (Land Only): $5,995.00
Per person sharing in double occupancy
Single Supplement: $900.00
Price based on a group size minimum of 5 participants and Maximum of 12 participants
Tour Includes
Arrival and departure transfers.
A/C transportation in 4x4 vehicles and mini-busses throughout the tour.
Flight from Man to Abidjan.
Accommodation as mentioned from best available to superior 3-5*.
Note: Twin rooms with two beds are not available in some hotels.M§ Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B: breakfast, L: lunch, and D: dinner).
Professional English-speaking guide throughout the tour and local guides at various villages.
All activities described in the tour and entrance fees to all sites mentioned unless listed as optional.
Bottled water while on drives. Gratuities to guides, drivers and porters
Tour Does Not Include
International air from USA to Abidjan and back to USA or Abidjan to Abuja (if joining Nigeria Highlights).
E-visa fees (approximately $90).
E-visa is not valid if arriving overland.Any PCR tests required pre arrival and pre departure.
Drinks during meals (soft or alcohol) or meals not mentioned.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
Items of a personal nature (camera or video fees, laundry, phone calls, emails, excess luggage, etc.).
Transfers if not arriving/departing on scheduled dates.
Dayroom/overnights necessitated by changes in airline schedules or early arrival.
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, and some very long rides. A few times you may be delayed by the security personnel at some check points and this necessitates a tolerant and patient attitude.
LODGING Level:
**-**** Standard to Deluxe - Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined service and comfort level acceptable to western standards (3 to 5 stars).
