COTE D’IVOIRE (IVORY COAST)…A Heritage of Tribes, Dances, and Masks
January 19 - January 29, 2024
Led by Tour Lecturer Michel Behar
Situated on the Atlantic coast of West Africa, Côte d'Ivoire - or Ivory Coast as some may call it, has a fascinating cultural heritage and some of the greatest mask dances in the world. On this overland journey, discover villages that have had little interaction with foreign visitors and spend time with different ethnic tribes such as the talented Baulé, a group known for their unrivaled masks and human sculptures, and the Senoufo another artistic group whose highly prized sculptures were an inspiration for Pablo Picasso’s “African Period.” Notice each tribe’s own style of music when taking 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.”
This trip is an exceptional program for those looking to dive deep into African culture with a strong interest in unique mask dances virtually unknown to the western world.
Can be combined with Nigeria Highlights tour (January 10 - January 19, 2024) OR
Africa’s Atlantic Coast… Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Guinea Bissau (January 29 - February 16, 2024)
Tour Cost Tour Cost (Land Only): $6,500.00
Per person sharing in double occupancy
Single Supplement: $800.00
Price based on a group size minimum of 6 participants and maximum of 12 participants
Tour Includes
Airport/Hotel/Airport transfers.
A/C transportation in 4x4 vehicles and minibuses throughout the tour.
Accommodation as mentioned from best available to superior 3-5* (twin rooms may not be available at some hotels).
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B: breakfast, L: lunch, and D: dinner).
Professional English-speaking guide throughout and local guides at various villages.
Escort of a Tour Lecturer (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
All activities described in the tour and entrance fees to all sites mentioned unless listed as optional.
Bottled water while on drives.
Gratuities to guide, drivers, and porters (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Tour Does Not Include
International air USA - Abidjan - USA
E-visa fees (approx. $90 - subject to change).
Beverages with or without meals.
Any required pre arrival & pre departure PCR tests.
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 to Deluxe Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined service, and comfort level acceptable to western standards (2 to 5 stars).
