Arrival in Cotonou

Cotonou - Start your adventure with a warm welcome in Cotonou, where you’ll receive assistance with immigration and customs. Transfer to your hotel for a relaxing debriefing. Enjoy a delicious dinner and rest for the night.

Fidjrosse Beach - Fidjrosse Beach, located along the scenic Fidjrosse Route Des Peches in Cotonou, Benin, offers a peaceful retreat with its golden sands and tranquil waters. Relax at the beach in the evening and enjoy the sunset.

Porto-Novo, the Administrative Capital

Porto-Novo - A one-hour drive to Porto-Novo, the administrative capital of Benin. Experience the vibrant Egungun Initiations and Performances. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Cotonou.

Musee Honme (Palais Royal) - The Honmè Museum in Porto-Novo, Benin, boasts a rich history dating back to the early 1920s. Initially established as the Royal Palaces of Porto-Novo, it served as the residence of King Toffa, a notable figure in the region. After Toffa’s passing, the palace was transformed into a museum in 1942 by his grandson, King Alohinto Gbehanzin.

RIVIÈRE NOIRE ADJARRA BÉNIN 🇧🇯📍 - Black River Adjarra is a picturesque waterway near Porto-Novo, Benin. The river gets its name from the dark color of its waters, due to the surrounding vegetation and sediment. Adjarra is a small town along the riverbanks, offering visitors a serene and natural escape from urban life.

The area around Black River Adjarra is known for its lush mangrove forests and diverse wildlife, including various species of birds, fish, and reptiles.

Discovering Ouidah

La Porte Du Non Retour - La Porte Du Non Retour, located in Ouidah, Benin, holds deep historical significance as a symbol of the transatlantic slave trade. This monumental arch stands at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, marking the departure point where enslaved Africans were forced onto ships bound for the Americas.

Foret Sacree de Kpasse - The Foret Sacree de Kpasse, located in Ouidah, Benin, is a sacred forest revered for its spiritual significance and cultural heritage. This ancient grove is considered a sacred site by the local Vodun community and serves as a place of worship, meditation, and cultural preservation.

Within the forest, visitors can encounter a diverse array of trees, plants, and wildlife, all of which hold special significance in Vodun religious practices and rituals. The forest is home to sacred shrines, altars, and ceremonial spaces where offerings are made to the spirits and ancestors.

Ouidah - The Zangbeto performance is a traditional cultural spectacle originating from the Yoruba people of Nigeria and Benin. Zangbeto, often referred to as the “Nightwatchmen,” are masked figures representing ancestral spirits tasked with maintaining order, dispelling evil, and preserving societal harmony.

During a Zangbeto performance, masked dancers clad in colorful costumes move rhythmically to the beat of drums and other traditional musical instruments. The dancers’ movements are often accompanied by chants, songs, and incantations, creating an immersive and captivating experience for spectators.

Ganvie - Abomey

Lac Nokoue - Ganvie is a unique and fascinating stilt village located in Benin, West Africa, situated on Lake Nokoué near the city of Cotonou. Often referred to as the “Venice of Africa,” Ganvie is renowned for its distinctive architecture and way of life.

The village was established several centuries ago by the Tofinu people, who built their homes on stilts in the middle of Lake Nokoué as a refuge from slave raiders. Today, Ganvie is home to thousands of residents who have adapted to living on the water, relying on fishing and trade for their livelihoods.

Palais des rois d’Abomey - The Royal Palaces of Abomey, located in Benin, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an exceptional historical complex that served as the seat of the powerful Kingdom of Dahomey from the 17th to the 19th century. These palaces were the center of political, cultural, and religious life for the kingdom’s rulers, showcasing the wealth and power of the Dahomey monarchy.

Abomey - Natitingou

Chutes de Kota - The Chutes de Kota, located near Natitingou in Benin, are a stunning natural attraction renowned for their scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance. Also known as the Kota Waterfalls, they are nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Atakora Mountains in the northern part of the country.

The waterfalls cascade gracefully down rocky cliffs, creating a series of picturesque cascades and pools below. Visitors to the Chutes de Kota can marvel at the sight and sound of the rushing water, surrounded by the verdant vegetation of the surrounding forest.

Natitingou - Boukoumbe

Natitingou - Cross the border to Togo, experience the cultural transition from Benin to Togo. Natitingou, located in the Atakora Department of Benin, is a vibrant town surrounded by picturesque landscapes and rolling hills. It serves as a gateway to the stunning Pendjari National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

Koutammakou, le pays des Batammariba - Koutammakou, often referred to as the Land of the Batammariba, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Dissani, Togo. This breathtaking region is renowned for its unique landscape, traditional architecture, and vibrant culture, which has been preserved for centuries by the Batammariba people.

The defining feature of Koutammakou is its remarkable collection of ancient clay fortresses known as “Takienta” or “Takientedou.” These fortified dwellings, built entirely of mud and wood, are constructed in a distinctive cylindrical shape and rise several stories high. They are ingeniously designed to provide shelter, security, and ventilation while blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.

Lome

Lome - Enjoy a long drive to Lome and check into a hotel with evening relaxation at a local bar. Lomé, the capital city of Togo, is a vibrant coastal metropolis brimming with cultural richness and colonial charm. Boasting palm-fringed beaches along the Gulf of Guinea, Lomé invites visitors to relax by the sea or explore its bustling markets, such as the Grand Market, offering an array of local crafts, fabrics, and spices.

Lome Discovery

Slave House of Togo - The Slave House of Togo, located in Agbodrafo, Togo, is a historical site that serves as a poignant reminder of the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on the region. This colonial-era building, also known as Maison des Esclaves, was once used as a transit point for enslaved Africans before they were shipped across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas.

Togoville - Togoville is a historic town located on the northern shore of Lake Togo in the maritime region of Togo. It holds significant cultural and historical importance as one of the earliest settlements in the country and as the birthplace of modern Togo.

The town was established in the 17th century by the Ewe ethnic group, who migrated to the area from present-day Ghana. It was initially known as Togo, but later became known as Togoville after a treaty signed with German colonizers in the late 19th century.

Musee National - The Musée National in Lomé, Togo, is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and heritage of the country. Situated in the capital city, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive insight into Togolese culture, art, and history.

Monument de l’independance - The Monument de L’Independance was built as a tribute to Togo’s independence from France on April 27, 1960. The structure is composed of a human silhouette carved within it and surrounded by promenades, palm trees, manicured lawns, fountains, and a black gold iron fence.

Lome - Accra

Accra - The journey from Aflao to Accra in Ghana offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, showcasing the diverse landscape and heritage of the region. We shall come across the Volta river in the Volta region; The region is dotted with traditional villages, where you might catch glimpses of local life and traditional craftsmanship.

As you approach Accra, you’ll pass through Tema, Ghana’s largest seaport city. While primarily an industrial area, Tema also has beaches and recreational areas where you can take a break and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Accra - Quick stop at the Accra mall for a light refreshment.

Osu Oxford Street - Check into a hotel at Oxford Street, experience nightlife in Accra. Osu Oxford Street in Accra, Ghana, pulsates with energy and excitement, serving as a vibrant hub of commerce, entertainment, and culture. Lined with colorful shops, lively restaurants, and bustling markets, this iconic street offers a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavors. From sampling delicious Ghanaian street food to exploring contemporary art galleries and trendy boutiques, Osu Oxford Street captivates visitors with its dynamic atmosphere and rich tapestry of Ghanaian urban life.

Accra City Tour

W.E.B. DuBois Center - The W.E.B. Du Bois Center in Accra, Ghana, is a cultural institution dedicated to the legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois, a prominent African-American civil rights leader, scholar, and Pan-Africanist. Located in the heart of Accra, the center was established to honor Du Bois’s contributions to the global struggle for equality and justice.

The center features a museum and research library that houses a collection of Du Bois’s writings, photographs, and personal belongings, providing insight into his life, work, and activism. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight Du Bois’s role in the Pan-African movement, his advocacy for civil rights, and his impact on African-American history and culture.

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park - The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, located in Accra, Ghana, is a historic site dedicated to the memory of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President and a key figure in the country’s struggle for independence. The park is situated in the heart of Accra and is a significant landmark in the city.

Independence Square - Independence Square, located in Accra, Ghana, is a significant landmark that holds immense historical and cultural importance in the country. Also known as Black Star Square, it stands as a symbol of Ghana’s journey to independence and its emergence as a sovereign nation.

The square spans a vast area and is characterized by its open space, grandstand, and imposing monuments. At the center of the square stands the Independence Arch, a monumental structure adorned with a black star, which symbolizes Ghana’s freedom and sovereignty. The arch serves as a visual reminder of the country’s struggle for independence from colonial rule.

James Town - Jamestown, located in Accra, Ghana, is one of the oldest districts in the city and holds significant historical and cultural importance. Named after James Fort, a colonial-era British outpost established in the 17th century, Jamestown is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood that reflects both its colonial past and its vibrant present.

The district is characterized by its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. It is home to a diverse community of people, including Ga fishermen, artisans, traders, and residents from various ethnic backgrounds. The streets are often filled with the sounds of music, conversation, and activity, creating a dynamic and bustling environment.

Accra Arts Centre - The Accra Arts Centre, situated on John Evans Atta Mills High Street in Accra, Ghana, is a bustling marketplace and cultural hub that showcases the vibrant arts and crafts of Ghanaian artisans. Located in the heart of the city, it is a vibrant and dynamic destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Ghana.

The Arts Centre is a sprawling complex comprising numerous stalls, shops, and galleries, each offering a diverse array of traditional and contemporary artworks, handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. Visitors can explore the maze-like corridors of the center, browsing through a wide variety of items ranging from handwoven Kente cloth to intricately carved wooden sculptures and vibrant beadwork.

Accra - Aburi

Aburi Botanical Gardens - The Aburi Botanical Gardens, located in Aburi, Ghana, are a lush and tranquil oasis nestled in the Akuapim Hills, approximately 30 kilometers north of Accra. Established in 1890, the gardens cover an area of approximately 64 hectares and are renowned for their diverse collection of tropical and sub-tropical plants, scenic landscapes, and serene ambiance.

Visitors to the Aburi Botanical Gardens are greeted by towering trees, colorful flower beds, and winding pathways that meander through the lush vegetation. The gardens are home to a wide variety of plant species, including exotic palms, ferns, orchids, and medicinal herbs, many of which are native to Ghana and other parts of West Africa.

Tetteh Quashie Cocoa Farm - The Tetteh Quashie Cocoa Farm, located in Mampong, Ghana, holds significant historical importance as the birthplace of Ghana’s cocoa industry. Named after Tetteh Quashie, a Ghanaian blacksmith who is credited with introducing cocoa to the country in the late 19th century, the farm is a key landmark in Ghana’s agricultural heritage.

The Tetteh Quashie Cocoa Farm is situated in the Eastern Region of Ghana, approximately an hour’s drive from the capital city of Accra. The farm is nestled in the lush greenery of the Ghanaian countryside, surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and fertile farmland.

Visitors to the Tetteh Quashie Cocoa Farm can explore the sprawling cocoa plantation, learning about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of cocoa beans firsthand. Guided tours of the farm offer insight into the various stages of cocoa production, from planting and pruning to drying and fermentation.

Accra - Visit the Fantasy coffins in Accra.

National Museum of Ghana - The National Museum features a diverse range of exhibits that highlight various aspects of Ghanaian heritage, including archaeology, ethnography, art, and natural history. Visitors can explore galleries filled with ancient artifacts, traditional crafts, ceremonial objects, and contemporary artworks, providing insight into Ghana’s diverse cultural traditions and historical achievements.

Accra - Cape Coast

Cape Coast Castle - A long drive to Cape Coast Castle, located in Cape Coast, Ghana, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant historical landmarks in West Africa. Built by European colonial powers in the 17th century, the castle served as a key trading post and administrative center for the transatlantic slave trade.

Elmina Castle - Elmina Castle, located in the town of Elmina in the Central Region of Ghana, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest European-built structures in sub-Saharan Africa. Constructed by the Portuguese in the late 15th century, it is also known as São Jorge da Mina (St. George of the Mine).

Kakum - Accra

Kakum National Park - Kakum National Park, located in the Central Region of Ghana, is a biodiverse tropical rainforest reserve that offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and ecological diversity of West Africa. Established in 1992, the park covers an area of approximately 375 square kilometers and is renowned for its pristine rainforest, diverse wildlife, and elevated canopy walkway.

One of the highlights of Kakum National Park is its Canopy Walkway, a series of suspended bridges that allow visitors to walk through the upper levels of the rainforest canopy. The walkway, which is one of the longest and highest in Africa, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and provides a rare opportunity to observe wildlife from a bird’s-eye perspective.

Assin Manso Ancestral Slave River Park - Assin Manso Ancestral Slave River Park, located in Assin Manso, Ghana, is a historic site that serves as a memorial to the millions of Africans who were captured, enslaved, and forcibly transported across the Atlantic Ocean during the transatlantic slave trade. Situated along the banks of the Assin Manso River, the park holds significant cultural and historical importance as a place of remembrance, reflection, and reconciliation.

One of the key features of the Assin Manso Ancestral Slave River Park is the “Slave River,” a stretch of the Assin Manso River where enslaved Africans were brought to be bathed and purified before being sold at nearby slave markets. Visitors to the park can walk along the riverbank, reflecting on the solemn significance of the site and paying tribute to the resilience and strength of those who suffered and died during this dark chapter in history.

Accra - Return drive to Accra for last-minute shopping and departure.

Accra - Departure

Kotoka International Airport - Arrive 2 hours before the flight schedule for departure.

• Bottled water
• WiFi on transit
• Breakfast
• Guide
• Airport pick-up & drop-off

• International flights
• Vaccinations
• Visas

Set off on a two-week journey through the enchanting tapestry of West African culture and history. Discover Benin, Togo, and Ghana, delving into the origins of Voodoo in Ouidah, observing fascinating Egungun ceremonies, and exploring the poignant remnants of the slave trade at the Point of No Return.

Connect with lively communities, embrace the spirit of each location, and enrich your understanding of African heritage. From bustling markets to tranquil waters, this tour presents a mosaic of experiences that showcase the spiritual, historical, and cultural diversity of these three nations.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.