SENEGAL,THE GAMBIA,IVORY COAST,BENIN,TOGO,GHANA, NIGERIA – 27 DAYS

This morning go on the tour of the Capital City including: the African Renaissance Monument. Overlooking Dakar, the statue is built on a hill over hundred meters high, and taller than the Statue of Liberty. This once controversial bronze statue is a popular attraction among locals as well as visitors. It is a huge, colossal shining bronze of 20 thousand tons and is the largest statue in Africa. Next visit the colorful markets including Kermel Market, famous for a variety of medicinal herbs for traditional healers, and the Soumbedioune market. Stop by the Presidential Palace and Independence square. After lunch, drive to the port and board the 20 minutes ferry ride to the infamous Goree Island. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our visit will start at the slaves’ house, built in 1776 by the Portuguese. Ruled in succession by the Portuguese, Dutch, English, and French. The architecture is characterized by the contrast between the grim slave-quarters and the elegant houses of the slave traders. Today it continues to serve as a reminder of its infamous past and as a sanctuary for reconciliation. Listen to the lecture by the curator to understand the history of slavery in West Africa in general and in Goree in particular and to know about the captive’s life. Then after visit the house with its different compartments. Observe the “Door of No Return” through which, millions of Africans passed on the way to slavery. Return to Dakar in the late afternoon and visit the Museum of Black Civilization. This massive four-story complex which fulfilled the dream of Senegal’s first president Leopold Sedar Senghor. The museum retraces the oldest and first civilizations from Africa to the rest of the world. The architect is inspired by the impluvium huts in Casamance. Meals included: Breakfast Hotel: Ndiambour

After breakfast, we will checkout from Dakar and Discover other rural area of Senegal at the South. Visit Serrere and Fula villages. We will discover Joal, a Portuguese settlement in the 16th centuries and the native place of the first president of Senegal. By a wooden bridge we can access Fadiouth a small village settled on a pile of shells. Walking through this traditional and mythic Serrere village to meet and interact with the locals. Visit the cathedral, the market place, the sacred baobab tree; and on another bridge we will reach the mixt cemetery where Muslims, animists and Christians are buried side by side. Have lunch and drive to Fadial village, to visit the millenary baobab tree (1500 years old), continue to arrive at Toubacouta located on the continental ridge. There, we will go for a pirogue ride at sunset to attend to the return of the birds to their nest. Breathtaking spectacle Back to the Lodge for Dinner and overnight Meals included: Breakfast Hotel: Keur Saloum

After breakfast, we drive to cross the border and enter Gambia after customs formalities. We will reach Jufureh, the village of Alex Haley, grandson of Kunta Kinte of the Root Saga. From Albreda on the main land which gained fame in the period of slavery as a result of its Flag Pole, which many believed would guarantee freedom to anyone who touched it after escaping from nearby James Island we reach after that 20mn by boat to observe the ruins of Kunta Kinte Island, a place of lust between French, English, Portuguese and Dutch, settled in the middle of the Gambia river. Sail back to the village of Jufureh to where the ancestors of “Kunta Kinte” of Roots fame was traced. The restored original home of the Kinte clan and still occupied by the Kinte family can be visited and the slave museum. We then drive and get to the unscheduled ferry and sail from Bara to Banjul after formalities. Meal(s) Included: Breakfast Hotel: Ocean Bay

In the morning drive through Banjul, the capital city of The Gambia. Visit the Katchikaly pool with its dozens of crocodiles, where you can touch those animals which most people fear. The local guides will give us a brief explanation of the existence of the pool and explain how local people benefit from it spiritually. Then we stop to visit Albert market, with much hustle and bustle, where anything from live chicken, vegetables to herbs and false hair can be bought. Settled closer the terminal of Banjul, this market is also handled by many foreigner traders as Senegalese, Malian, Nigerian, and Lebanese who are the owners of the biggest stores. We will briefly visit the National Museum passing closer to Arch 22, built in 1996 in honor of July 22 revolution in 1994. With a height of 35 meters, it is the tallest structure in the country. Visit the batik factory and get some skills making your own tie and dye fabric. Drive to Tanjie fishing port and back to Bakau to enjoy hotel amenities! Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner Hotel: Ocean Bay

This morning, drive to visit the Brikama Cattle Market and head to the North-central border of the Gambia by crossing the Senegambia bridge over the river Gambia. After the border formalities, we will go to visit the megalithic circles of Sine Ngayene, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The complex is composed of 52 circles of standing stones, with more than 11,000 carved stones on the site. Nearby is the quarry from which the monoliths were extracted, where more than a hundred have been traced. We continue our way back to the Saloum kingdom on Kaolack. Overnight stay will be in Ajana Hotel. Meals included: breakfast Hotel: Ajana

Departure in the morning by crossing the country from South to West with some stops on the way. Depending on the day, we could visit a weekly market called Louma, a meeting place for exchanges or bartering for locals. Continue to the Somone Delta for Lunch and go for a boat cruise through the mangrove forest to encounter various shorebirds, visit the oyster farm, and the seafood exploitation. We will ride through the Bolongs full of mangroves with oysters hanging from their roots and admire a variety of birds in this area that is part of the Somone Lagoon. Head back to the resort for dinner and overnight. Meals included: Breakfast Hotel : Palm Beach

This morning, we will have breakfast and go for an excursion to Bandia National Park. Once there, we will Embark on an unforgettable Safari where you will see numerous animal species native to Senegal including buffaloes, antelopes, impala gazelles, monkeys, tortoises, and crocodile in addition to white rhinoceros, kudu, elands, giraffes, ostriches, zebras etc.

Bandia wildlife reserve has succeeded in reintroducing much of the marvelous native flora and fauna that are unique to West Africa and have gradually disappeared due to demographic pressure and poaching.

A cultural experience you may not want to miss is discovering the tombs for revered Griots created under some of the Baobab trees. Griots were formerly regarded as outcasts, story tellers, drummers, singers and were often buried inside the hollow of these Baobabs.

After visiting the crocodiles, we will continue to the Retba Lake by its original name, which is a rare natural phenomenon caused by a unique combination of microorganism. Separated from the Atlantic Ocean only by narrow sand dunes, the pink hue of this Lake is caused by the high salt content (a rate of 380g / Liter). Due to the flooding caused by the heavy rains, the Lake has often filled so much with water, that even the colors may disappear. However, we can embark into some Jeeps to follow the tracks of the former Paris Dakar race between the Coast, the sand dunes and the Filao’s forest.

Meals included: breakfast, Dinner

Hotel: Palm Beach 

Day at leisure before you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Hotel check out time is noon.

Meals included: Breakfast

Hotel : Azalai Abidjan

FIRST TOUR SEGMENT ENDS IN DAKAR TODAY AND SECOND SEGMENT BEGINS IN ABIDJAN

Breakfast and proceed to Grand Bassam the colonial capital city where we will visit the French colonial district, the costume museum; the craft center; the governor “Binger” palace, first colonial governor, the Arianne Monument symbolizing yellow fever epidemic disease at the colonial period. Visit the reputed market for souvenirs shopping.

In the afternoon proceed to a fishing village called Azureti located approximately 4 km from Grand Bassam. Upon arrival visit fishermen repairing their fishing nets around the pirogues. Visit the smoking ovens. Interact with Michel one of the chiefs of the fishermen. After visit return to overnight in Abidjan.

Meals included: Breakfast

Hotel: Azalai Abidjan

In the morning, proceed to visit Banco Forest for moderate/easy walk. Banco National Park, (Parc National du Banco), lies north of Abidjan, declared a national park in Banco conserves both flora and fauna in approx. 300 sq km. Visit of Ebrié village called Azito to see the cooperative of women making traditional couscous of casava called Atieké.

Visit national Marian shrine and drive to the Plateau which is Abidjan business area (small Manhattan of Côte d’Ivoire), visit of the Cathedral Saint Paul and have a panoramic tour of the plateau area. Visit of the civilization Museum of Cote d’Ivoire, the market of Treichville, Abidjan city craft center. Return to your hotel and overnight.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel: Azalai Abidjan

Day at leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

BIENVENUE!!! WELCOME TO COTONOU, BENIN!!! On arrival at Cotonou Cadjehoun International Airport, proceed through immigration, claim luggage, and clear custom procedures, exit and meet our expert cultural tour guide will meet, assist, and transfer you to your hotel in our private air-conditioned vehicle. Check in and refresh. Once you have checked in, your Bilingual (English/French speaking) guide, who will be with you throughout your stay, will brief you on what to expect during this trip.

Meals included: Breakfast

Hotel :Golden Tulip Diplomate

SECOND TOUR SEGMENT ENDS IN ABIDJAN TODAY AND THIRD SEGMENT BEGINS IN COTONOU

After a leisure morning, we embark on a city tour of Cotonou. We will visit the following sites. The ‘Esplanade des Amazones,’ a public square located which is home to the ‘Amazon,’ a 30metre high statue built in homage to the world’s only all-female army. These Amazons belonged to the Kingdom of Dahomey, a West African empire that existed from 1625 to 1894.

The Remembrance Square which reveals the splendor and fascinating historic works of the city. Here you will find the Mathieu Garden, the former home of the late President of the Republic, Mathieu Kerekou now, transformed into a flowery area with a pleasant scent for visitors.

We will also visit the statue of the Wassangari warrior Bio Guéra on his horse while running. It glimpses the ardor and bravery with which the warriors fought to stop the colonial invasion. In addition, Martyrs’ Square was refurbished to pay tribute to the soldiers and civilians who fell with their weapons in hand during the military aggression of 16 January 1977. We return to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel: Golden Tulip Diplomate

After breakfast, drive to Ouidah, the spiritual capital of voodoo religion, and was once a major slave-trading post. You will visit the Voodoo Museum, the Sacred Forest, and the Temple of the sacred Pythons where you will see the 41 writhing pythons (41 is voodoo’s magic number).

After this culturally insightful experience, we continue to Garvie (Approx. 52 km, 1 hr, 7 mins drive time). One of the highlights of any trip to West Africa is Ganvie, the African Venice. In ancient times people took refuge on Lake Nokoue from the attacks of the feared Dahomey warriors who were forbidden by a deep belief to fight on water.

The Ganvie people over time developed this unique lake culture and way of life which have made them famous. Our boat cruise takes us along tranquil waterways and fish farms to the lake community of Ganvie. We discover these curious built-on- stilts dwellings, small floating markets, and various aspects of the local daily life.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Golden Tulip Diplomate

A leisurely breakfast before we depart for Porto-Novo, the capital city of Benin. Our first point of call is the Ethnographic Museum which was established by the Dahomey Institute in 1957. The museum houses costumes, ceremonial masks, and drums in addition to other historical artifacts.

The Royal Palace now known as the Honme Museum is an interesting excursion, the museum is housed in the walled compound of King Toffa who signed the first treaty with the French in 1863. Most of the displays here are from the period of King Toffas reign and there is an excellent example of Alounloun, a traditional Beninese instrument used to play music called Adjogon. A stone throws away from Honme is the Da Silva Museum which is in a beautiful Afro-Brazilian house dating back to the 1870’s. An interesting and informative excursion, this eclectic museum is home to some wonderful Afro-Brazilian artefacts and is a must visit during our time here.

The Great Mosque in Porto Novo offers excellent photographic opportunities and the history behind how this former Church became a Mosque is fascinating. We head back to Cotonou where we enjoy our lunch at a local restaurant selling international and local dishes before visiting the Dantokpa Marche, one of West Africa’s largest outdoor markets. Covering and area of over 20 hectares it sells everything you could imagine and is a major contributor to the Benin economy. The wax print section of the market is a must visit if you are looking for fabric souvenirs from your time in Benin.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Golden Tulip Diplomate

Enjoy morning at leisure to reflect, recover, and rejuvenate for the experiences had so far on the trip. Later transferred to the airport in time to catch your departure flight home or take another beautiful road trip to Lome, Togo.

A leisurely breakfast this morning as you pack our bags and check out of our hotel. Today we head to Togo. We will have an interesting morning ahead of us. Aneho is found 108km west of Lome, approximately 2 hours 30 minutes’ drive from Cotonou and was historically known as Little Popo. An important town during the slave trade era as there was a local slave market here. The neighboring town of Sebe was formerly the second capital of German Togoland from 1887 to 1897 when it was transferred to Lomé.

On arrival in Aneho we take a pirogue across Lake Togo to Togoville which is on the north-eastern side of the Lake. Togoville is historically known as the center of Voodoo in Togo. Many Voodoo practitioners were taken as slaves from here to Haiti. The chief’s house, known as Maison Royal, has a room that houses the old King’s throne which dates to 1884. It is in this room in 1884 the then chief Mlapa III signed a peace treaty giving all of what was then known as Togoland to Germany. As we mix with the locals walking through the communities, we will visit the many active shrines learning their importance to the locals living here. Prior to setting off back to Aneho we also visit a shrine that commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary on Lake Togo in the late 1970s.

You will also visit the Maison des Esclaves in Agbodrafo in Togo, West Africa. After the British abolition of slavery in 1807 an illicit trade continued. The Wood House was built in 1835 by the Scottish slave trader, John Henry Wood who connived with local kings and tribal leaders in the highly lucrative trade. Hundreds of slaves were kept in the 1.5m high cellar beneath the 200m2 house for weeks, even months, before being transferred to slave ships and sent across the Atlantic.

On your arrival in the afternoon, we will check our accommodation and relax for the remainder of the day.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel: Hôtel Petit Brussel

THIRD SEGMENT ENDS IN COTONOU TODAY AND FOURTH SEGMENT BEGINS IN LOME

After a relaxed breakfast in this beautiful setting, we will tour Lomé, the capital city of Togo. Visit the Grand Marché or big market which will be one of our highlights in Lomé. Initially, it seems chaotic, but you will be surprised at the orderliness and the hectic pace of this incredibly vibrant and beautiful market. Though it is supposed to be an indoor market, the three-story building and all the surrounding streets overflow with vendors selling everything imaginable.

The Sacred Heart or German Cathedral is next on our agenda. Built in 1905, this imposing Gothic piece of architecture is one of the most beautiful legacies of the Germans. A short distance from the cathedral is the National Museum of Togo, founded in 1975 which houses ethnographical cultural and artistic exhibits. To get a full understanding of Lome, it is insightful to visit the witches market/ Marché fetiches at Akodessewa. This is an optional visit though as some people would prefer not to see the dried animal parts. The Akodessewa fetish market is an important part of the culture in Togo. Stalls sell a collection of dried animal parts and skins of reptiles, mammals, and birds with a compliment of dried herbs. The vendors usually double as soothsayers claiming the ability to predict your future and at the same time forestall any mishap. It is an eyebrow raising experience.

We continue to the Artisans village where we will see cloth weaving, carving statues, making baskets, lampshades and sewing leather shoes besides much more. It is fascinating to watch the artisans doing their own thing with such skill and dexterity and always with a smile.

End the day with a visit to Palais de Lomé. Initially the residence of German and then French governors, it was used as the seat of the Togolese state until 1970. From 1976 to 1991, the Palace became the “Palace of the Distinguished Guests of the Togolese Republic” before becoming the residence of the Prime Minister’s Office in September 1991.

For the first time in its history, this place once forbidden, is now accessible to all Togolese. An opportunity to reconnect with the history of our country, while giving our cultures international visibility.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Hôtel Petit Brussel

Enjoy morning at leisure to reflect, recover, and rejuvenate for the experiences had so far on the trip. Later be transferred to the airport in time to catch your departure flight home or take another beautiful road trip to Ghana.

This morning, we set off to Ghana. After crossing the Aflao-Border, take a trip to the nearby Wli (Agumatsa) Falls found in the Agumatsa wildlife sanctuary in the Volta region of Ghana. The Wli Falls are believed to be the highest waterfall in West Africa. Set in a beautiful location the surrounding flora and fauna make this an idyllic setting.

On our arrival we will trek through the thick semi deciduous forest leading to the falls from Wli village. As we near the falls we can hear the enormous colony of Straw-colored Fruit Bats found on the adjacent cliffs. We can relax and enjoy a paddle in the pool beneath the waterfall which is safe for swimming if you are feeling adventurous. Continue to your hotel in Ho and have the rest of the day at leisure.

Continue to Tafi Atome, a wonderful community protecting a population of endangered True Mona monkeys. The community here perceives the Mona Monkeys to be sacred messengers from the gods and have been protecting the monkeys and their habitat for over 200 years. Quality time is dedicated here learning more about the history behind their protection from the local traditionalists during our time in the village.

We venture into the surrounding forests to see these beautiful primates and during the walk our local guide will identify the many medicinal plants that grow here and explain how the locals use them to make traditional herbal remedies.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Volta Hotel

FOURTH SEGMENT ENDS IN LOME TODAY AND FIFTH SEGMENT BEGINS IN GHANA

This morning visits a small village called Krobo Odumase to witness the first-hand experience of beads made from specially crafted glasses – Cedi Beads Factory. We will have the opportunity to design our own beads using the traditional Krobo technique. The bead-making craft has a long history in Ghana. Beads have been used in ceremonies of birth, coming of age, marriage, or death for the past 400 years. You will watch and participate in the whole bead-making process from beginning to end. Proceed with a scenic drive back to the resort.

Upon your return, enjoy a sumptuous lunch at the restaurant before you take a cruise in one of the modern Harris boats to the suspending Adomi Bridge amidst great music. Enjoy the beautiful view of the volta lake, while cruising. Life jackets will be provided as well as professional captains on the motorboat.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Volta Hotel 

After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel and travel to Cape Coast, the former capital of Ghana and a city renowned for its significant role in the transatlantic slave trade. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Ridge Royal Hotel

After breakfast, we set off for Kakum National Park and Africa’s world-famous rainforest canopy walkway. This is an incredibly beautiful, tropical rainforest and the canopy walkway is sure to be a highlight of your time on Cape Coast. The walkway consists of seven bridges, attached to trees, forty meters above the rainforest floor. Prepare to take a deep breath as you walk the suspended bridges and get outstanding views that stretch for miles across the rainforest. We return to the park headquarters where we find an excellent information center that offers a highly informative overview of the park’s flora and fauna. Over 40 different mammal species have been recorded within the park, which includes forest elephants, leopards and six primate species.

In the afternoon, explore Elmina Castle—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This thought-provoking monument held more enslaved Africans than any other in the region. Experience an emotional journey through its dungeons and witness the infamous “Door of No Return.” Inside the castle, a historical museum explains its past and that of Elmina. You can also purchase literature on Ghana’s forts, castles, and cultural traditions.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel: Ridge Royal 

This morning, you will check out of your hotel and make your way to Accra. Before that, visit Cape Coast castle which has been designated as a world heritage site by UNESCO. The castle is a thought-provoking monument to a harrowing period in the region’s history. Quality time will be spent in the afternoon on an emotional journey touring this castle which held more enslaved Africans captive than any other in West Africa, viewing the dungeons and the infamous “Door of no return.”

There is a historical museum inside, which explains the entire history of the castle and Cape Coast itself, as well as a souvenir shop selling literature on all of Ghana’s forts and castles, as well as the cultural history and traditions of Ghana. After the tour you will continue to Accra.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel : Pelican Hotel

Today marks the beginning of your wonderful experience in Accra, the capital of Ghana. After a sumptuous buffet breakfast at your hotel, we set off for the tour of Accra and its vicinity, passing through economic and administrative districts.

· Visit the W.E.B DuBois former home, now a museum and Centre for the Study of Africanism.

· Drive through the Independence Square where Ghana hosts most of her national ceremonies and take some amazing photo memoirs at the Black Star Square.

· Visit the famous Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park built in 1992 to honor, promote and preserve the legacies of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah has never seen any major facelift until this one. The old facility housed the mortal remains of Nkrumah and his wife Fathia and had a museum that had on display objects from various stages of Nkrumah’s life, as well as other relevant things.

· Just adjoining the Memorial Park is the Accra Arts & Crafts Centre, how about trying out your bargaining skills at the largest open market in Accra whiles you shop for some stunning authentic African wear, arts, and crafts as souvenirs for family and friends back home, you will have the opportunity to experience some of Accra’s most authentic shopping outlets.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Pelican Hotel

The day is at leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Upon arrival at Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, proceed through immigration, collect your luggage, and clear customs. Once you exit the terminal, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional cultural tour guide. You will then be transferred to your hotel for check-in. After settling in, your tour guide will provide a brief orientation and give an overview of your upcoming experiences. The remainder of the day you will be at leisure to rest and prepare for the exciting adventures ahead.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Black Diamond Hotel

FIFTH SEGMENT ENDS IN ACCRA TODAY AND SIXTH SEGMENT BEGINS IN LAGOS

After breakfast, depart for Badagry, a historic coastal town in the west of Lagos near the Benin Republic border. Founded in the early 15th century along a lagoon off the Gulf of Guinea, Badagry’s natural harbor made it a significant port and a major center in the transatlantic slave trade. Upon arrival, embark on the Badagry “Slave Route” Tour, which includes visits to: The Old Slave Market The Slave Trade Museum, featuring historical relics and artifacts. The Seriki Abbas Compound (Slave Barracoons)

Gberefu Beach, the final embarkation points for enslaved Africans After the tour, return to Lagos for a relaxing evening at your hotel.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel: Black Diamond Hotel

After breakfast, we depart to the Nigerian Conservation Foundation’s (NCF) Lekki Conservation Centre, a serene nature reserve that offers a refreshing escape from the city’s bustle. Enjoy a walk along the boardwalk and canopy walkway, the longest in Africa, offering stunning views of the forest canopy. Along the way, you may spot playful monkeys, colorful birds, and a scenic manmade pond filled with vibrant fish species—perfect for nature lovers seeking peace and connection with the environment.

Continue to the Lekki International Craft Market, renowned for its vibrant collection of handmade art, jewelry, sculptures, and traditional craft items. Take time to browse the curio shops and pick unique souvenirs.

Next, visit the Nike Art Gallery & Cultural Center, the largest privately owned art gallery in West Africa, housed in a striking four-story building with an adjoining café. The gallery highlights over 10,000 pieces of contemporary and traditional Nigerian art. If available, you will have the opportunity to meet Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, the internationally acclaimed textile artist and founder of the gallery.

After lunch, continue to the National Museum, Onikan, home to a remarkable collection of Nigerian art and artifacts representing the country’s diverse cultural heritage. The museum features archaeological, ethnographic, and artistic exhibits, including statues, carvings, and relics from various ethnic groups.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Black Diamond Hotel

After breakfast, you are at leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight.