West African Trilogy: Best of Ghana, Togo & Benin

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Amazing Experience

Overview

  • Arrive in Accra, Ghana; explore markets, museums, and bespoke fittings before a convivial welcome dinner.
  • Walk Kakum National Park’s canopy, then reflect at Cape Coast and Elmina Castles.
  • Witness Assin Manso Slave River, Kumasi’s Manhyia Palace, Kejetia Market, and Ashanti craft villages.
  • Cross into Togo: Lomé’s markets, Togoville’s Lake Togo cruise, cathedral, and voodoo shrines.
  • Explore Benin’s Ouidah, Ganvie stilt village, and Abomey Royal Palaces before departing Cotonou.

 

Trip Includes

  • Private arrival and departure airport transfers
  • 3 nights first-class accommodations in Accra
  • 3 nights first-class accommodations in Elmina
  • 2 nights first-class accommodations in Kumasi
  • 2 nights first-class accommodations in Lome
  • 3 nights first-class accommodations in Cotonou
  • Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle throughout itinerary with a professional driver
  • Private English speaking guide day 1 through 14
  • Global Mama’s Cooking Experience
  • Included Entrance fees:
  • Dubois Centre
  • Nkrumah Park
  • Kakum National Park
  • Cape Coast Castle
  • Elmina Castle
  • Elmina Walking Tour,
  • Assin Manso Slave River Site
  • Manhyia Museum
  • Prempeh Jubilee Museum
  • Ashanti Craft Villages (Ahwiaa, Ntonso, Bonwire)
  • Besease Shrine
  • Lome Museum
  • Fetish Market
  • Togoville
  • Sacred Python Temple
  • Sacred Forest
  • Port of No Return
  • Ganvie and Royal Palaces of Abomey
  • Breakfast Daily (excluding day 1)

 

Trip Excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Passport & Visa fees, if applicable

 

Summary

Terms and Conditions

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.

 

Upon arrival in Accra, you will met by local representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

 

Arrive Accra

 

Your Accommodation

Lancaster Accra Hotel

Welcome to Lancaster Accra! Lancaster Accra is a 4-Star Superior First Class hotel with a lovely ambiance and delightfully landscaped in style over spacious grounds with lush vegetation. The hotel has 238 rooms and offers diverse room types (Standard room, superior room, junior suite, premier suite, Executive Suite, 1 bedroom chalet, and 2 bedroom chalet for both business and leisure travelers. We are easily accessible with only 5 minutes (2km) drive from the Kotoka International Airport and 10 minutes' drive to the city center. The hotel offers a free airport shuttle service for the convenience of guests. From our amazing Food & Beverage dining experiences to our Outside Catering services we have the special touch that makes any event truly memorable.

Lancaster Accra Hotel

After breakfast, embark on an exciting sightseeing tour of Accra, the bustling capital city of Ghana, and immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant culture. Established as the capital in 1877, Accra is the heart of the Greater Accra Region and the most populous city in the country. Your tour begins with an exploration of the administrative and economic districts, where modernity meets tradition. Discover the city's cultural and historical gems, including the Artiste Alliance Gallery, known for its diverse collection of Ghanaian art, the W.E.B. Du Bois Center for Pan African Culture, which celebrates the life and work of the renowned civil rights leader, and the iconic Independence/Black Star Square, a symbol of Ghana's freedom and national pride. Along the way, delve into Ghana's storied past and learn about pivotal events, including the inspiring journey to independence led by the nation's first President, Kwame Nkrumah. Next, visit The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, a site dedicated to the enduring legacy of Nkrumah and his role in shaping African independence. Explore the museum, which showcases artifacts from his life and career, his personal residence, the Eternal Flame of African Liberation, and the serene, beautifully landscaped gardens. Gain insights into his early life, political aspirations, and vision for a unified Africa. Conclude your day with a visit to the vibrant Arts Center, an open-air market brimming with the sights, sounds, and colors of Ghana and West Africa. Hone your bargaining skills as you shop for unique goods, including colorful fabrics, intricate designs, and handcrafted treasures. This is the perfect opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs and experience the lively spirit of Ghanaian markets.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Accra City Tour - Visit a Traditional Africa Market

 

Your Accommodation

Lancaster Accra Hotel

Welcome to Lancaster Accra! Lancaster Accra is a 4-Star Superior First Class hotel with a lovely ambiance and delightfully landscaped in style over spacious grounds with lush vegetation. The hotel has 238 rooms and offers diverse room types (Standard room, superior room, junior suite, premier suite, Executive Suite, 1 bedroom chalet, and 2 bedroom chalet for both business and leisure travelers. We are easily accessible with only 5 minutes (2km) drive from the Kotoka International Airport and 10 minutes' drive to the city center. The hotel offers a free airport shuttle service for the convenience of guests. From our amazing Food & Beverage dining experiences to our Outside Catering services we have the special touch that makes any event truly memorable.

Lancaster Accra Hotel

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin your journey to Cape Coast, driving through the historic Denkyira Kingdom, a region steeped in history and culture. Your first stop is Kakum National Park, one of the last remaining tropical rainforests in West Africa. Choose between a serene 2-kilometer nature walk, where you'll discover a fascinating array of exotic flora and fauna, including species with unique medicinal properties, or take on the exhilarating canopy walkway, suspended 40 meters above the forest floor, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the rainforest. After enjoying lunch on your own, embark on a deeply moving and educational tour of Ghana’s historic forts and castles—sites that bear witness to the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Begin at Cape Coast Castle, originally built by the Swedes in 1653 and later taken over by the British. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a sobering look into the complex and painful history of slavery, including the roles played by both European traders and African intermediaries. Stand in the dim, oppressive dungeons where millions of Africans were held captive under unimaginable conditions. The castle also houses the West African Historical Museum, which provides further context and insight into this dark chapter of human history.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Canopy Walk Away and Kakum Rain Forest - Cape Coast Castle: A Journey Through Ghana’s Slave Trade History

 

Your Accommodation

Ridge Royal Hotel

Situated in the perfect location to explore the Cape Coast and surrounds, the Ridge Royal Hotel offers all the modern conveniences with spacious air-conditioned rooms with balcony - the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Serving International and Ghanaian cuisine, the hotel restaurant is sure to tantalize your tastebuds with its a la carte and buffet themes for lunch and dinner.

Ridge Royal Hotel

After breakfast, head to Elmina Castle (St. George’s Castle), built by the Portuguese in 1482. Here, you’ll learn more about the mechanisms of the slave trade and the resilience of those who endured it. Walking through these spaces offers a powerful reminder of the inhumanity of slavery and the enduring strength of the human spirit. After lunch on your own, continue your journey by exploring the vibrant fishing village of Elmina, a place that is equal parts picturesque and thought-provoking, blending charm with deep cultural and historical significance. Immerse yourself in the daily life of this coastal community by engaging with local fishermen, who will share the intricacies of their traditional fishing techniques, as well as the challenges they face in sustaining their livelihoods. Next, meet the industrious fishmongers of the village, who will offer a fascinating demonstration of the traditional fish-smoking process. Observe the various stages, from preparation to the use of earthenware ovens, as they preserve fish using methods passed down through generations. This hands-on experience offers a unique perspective on one of Ghana's oldest and most vital trades, connecting you to the culture and traditions of this resilient community.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Elmina Castle: A Journey Through Ghana’s Slave Trade History and Fishing Village Tour

 

Your Accommodation

Ridge Royal Hotel

Situated in the perfect location to explore the Cape Coast and surrounds, the Ridge Royal Hotel offers all the modern conveniences with spacious air-conditioned rooms with balcony - the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Serving International and Ghanaian cuisine, the hotel restaurant is sure to tantalize your tastebuds with its a la carte and buffet themes for lunch and dinner.

Ridge Royal Hotel

After breakfast, depart your hotel for an immersive cultural experience at the Global Mamas Cultural Workshop. Begin your journey into Ghanaian culinary traditions by exploring the fragrant and exotic flavors of West African cuisine in Auntie Esi's kitchen. With her warm guidance, you'll be introduced to a medley of new tastes and cooking techniques as you prepare iconic Ghanaian dishes. Learn to create staples like fufu, groundnut soup, fried plantain, palava sauce, and red red--each with its unique flavors and cultural significance. The hands-on workshop culminates in a delightful feast where you'll savor the dishes you've helped prepare, offering an authentic taste of Ghanaian hospitality. Afterward, dive into the artistic traditions of African craftsmanship through a batik workshop. Experience the vibrant art and culture of Ghana as you work alongside a skilled Global Mamas batiker in her studio. Learn the time-honored techniques of batik production, from applying intricate wax designs to hand-dyeing fabric to create vibrant, colorful patterns. During this four-hour class, you'll design and craft your own unique two-yard fabric masterpiece. Once completed, take your creation home as a cherished memento of your experience--a piece of Ghana that can be transformed into a treasured item for your home or wardrobe. This workshop offers a meaningful opportunity to connect with Ghana's culinary and artistic heritage while supporting the efforts of local artisans.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Global Mamas (Culinary Experience & Batik Making)

 

Your Accommodation

Ridge Royal Hotel

Situated in the perfect location to explore the Cape Coast and surrounds, the Ridge Royal Hotel offers all the modern conveniences with spacious air-conditioned rooms with balcony - the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Serving International and Ghanaian cuisine, the hotel restaurant is sure to tantalize your tastebuds with its a la carte and buffet themes for lunch and dinner.

Ridge Royal Hotel

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin your journey through the lush forest zone toward Kumasi, the heart and soul of the Ashanti Empire. Explore the rich history and captivating legends of the Ashanti people, whose enduring legacies are still felt today. En route, make a poignant stop at the Assin Manso Slave Site, a significant historical location where the painful story of the trans-Atlantic slave trade is commemorated. Visit Donkor Nsuo (Slave River), the final transit point for many enslaved Africans, where the last remnants of their journey were marked by the river and market where they were sold. This sacred site is also the final resting place of two Ashanti ancestors, whose remains were repatriated from the USA and Jamaica and re-interred with honor and respect. Following this somber visit, continue your journey to Kumasi, where you will visit the Manhyia Palace Museum, a treasure trove of Ashanti history. Here, you'll delve deep into the regal history of the Ashanti Kingdom, which dates back to the 1700s, through the museum's collection of relics and artifacts. Experience firsthand the cultural and political influence that shaped much of Ghana's history. Enjoy a scenic drive through Kumasi's vibrant city center, where monuments and statues honor the remarkable achievements of the Ashanti people. Your tour continues with a visit to Kejetia Market, one of the largest and most bustling open-air markets in West Africa. Dive into the local atmosphere and engage with the colorful array of traders offering goods from spices to textiles. Conclude your day at the National Cultural Centre, where you will explore the Prempeh II Jubilee Museum, a celebration of the Ashanti king's reign, alongside various artisan studios where you can observe brass makers, potters, and batik artists at work, preserving traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Elmina, Slave River and Kumasi City Tour

 

Your Accommodation

Lancaster Kumasi City

Lancaster Kumasi City is a premier African-style business hotel nestled in lush tropical gardens in the heart of the historic Ashanti regional capital, Kumasi. Blending contemporary comfort with rich cultural heritage, the hotel offers a dynamic and immersive experience that reflects the vibrant spirit of the Ashanti Kingdom. Perfectly positioned with direct access to the central business district, the hotel also boasts a prestigious location next to the Royal Golf Course and just two minutes from Rattray Park - a modern recreational oasis. Whether you're in town for high-level meetings or cultural discovery, Lancaster Kumasi City is the ideal base. From refined accommodations to warm Ghanaian hospitality, the hotel invites you to experience luxury, convenience, and authentic African charm at the heart of Kumasi.

Lancaster Kumasi City

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel for your day's sightseeing. Enjoy visits to three craft villages where you will have the opportunity to see how African crafts are made and to buy directly from the artisans who make them if you are so inclined. First up is Ahwiaa, a village noted for their woodcarvings along with other handicrafts. Next is a visit to Ntonso, the home of Adinkra cloth. Here you can see the Adinkra cloth made from scratch. The Adinkra was originally only worn Ashanti Region for funerals and made primarily in black or brown, however, nowadays it is made in various colors and used throughout Ghana. Our last stop of the day is Bonwire, the Kente weaving village. Here you will be able to see how these colorful fabrics are made. Afterward, return to your hotel where the remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Ashanti Craft Villages

 

Your Accommodation

Lancaster Kumasi City

Lancaster Kumasi City is a premier African-style business hotel nestled in lush tropical gardens in the heart of the historic Ashanti regional capital, Kumasi. Blending contemporary comfort with rich cultural heritage, the hotel offers a dynamic and immersive experience that reflects the vibrant spirit of the Ashanti Kingdom. Perfectly positioned with direct access to the central business district, the hotel also boasts a prestigious location next to the Royal Golf Course and just two minutes from Rattray Park - a modern recreational oasis. Whether you're in town for high-level meetings or cultural discovery, Lancaster Kumasi City is the ideal base. From refined accommodations to warm Ghanaian hospitality, the hotel invites you to experience luxury, convenience, and authentic African charm at the heart of Kumasi.

Lancaster Kumasi City

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and depart for Accra. En route, stop at the Besease shrine, a fetish shrine (a traditional religious shrine commonly found in Ghana, Togo, and Benin) and world heritage site located near the town of Ejisu. Each of these 10 shrines is a home for a particular spirit, called obosom that mediates between mortals and the supreme god Nyame. Observe the unique architecture and experience the mode of ancestral worship to the ancient gods before continuing back to Accra. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Kumasi to Besease Shrine to Accra

 

Your Accommodation

Lancaster Accra Hotel

Welcome to Lancaster Accra! Lancaster Accra is a 4-Star Superior First Class hotel with a lovely ambiance and delightfully landscaped in style over spacious grounds with lush vegetation. The hotel has 238 rooms and offers diverse room types (Standard room, superior room, junior suite, premier suite, Executive Suite, 1 bedroom chalet, and 2 bedroom chalet for both business and leisure travelers. We are easily accessible with only 5 minutes (2km) drive from the Kotoka International Airport and 10 minutes' drive to the city center. The hotel offers a free airport shuttle service for the convenience of guests. From our amazing Food & Beverage dining experiences to our Outside Catering services we have the special touch that makes any event truly memorable.

Lancaster Accra Hotel

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Togo, arriving in the vibrant capital city, Lomé. Begin your exploration with a comprehensive city tour, offering a captivating glimpse into the country's rich culture and history. Your first stop is the Musée National (National Museum), where you'll discover fascinating exhibits showcasing Togo's diverse heritage, from traditional artifacts to contemporary art. Continue to Place de l'Indépendance, a historic square where the Independence Monument stands tall, symbolizing Togo's hard-won freedom. The area is rich with significance, offering a chance to reflect on the country's journey to independence. Next, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Grand Marché (Grand Market), the largest market in Lomé, where you can find everything from vibrant textiles and handcrafted goods to local spices and produce. It's the perfect place to witness the lively spirit of Togolese commerce. Your tour then takes you to the Marché des Feticheurs (Fetish Market), a unique and intriguing market dedicated to traditional spiritual practices. Here, you'll see various items used in Togo's indigenous religions, from talismans and charms to herbs and rituals associated with local beliefs. This visit offers an eye-opening glimpse into the spiritual and cultural life of the people, showcasing the deep-rooted traditions that shape Togo's identity. The blend of history, culture, and spirituality in Lomé will leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in Togo.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Accra - Lome City Tour

 

Your Accommodation

Hotel 2 Fevrier Lome

Ideally located in the heart of Lome, Hotel 2 Fevrier is at walking distance from the main banks, ministries and embassies, only 20 minutes away from the airport and at short distance from the Lome's corporate area.

Hotel 2 Fevrier Lome

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Togoville, a charming beach resort located on the tranquil shores of Lake Togo. Upon arrival, you'll board a serene cruise across the lake, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Your first stop is the 17th-century Catholic Cathedral, an architectural gem that holds historical significance as the site where Pope Paul visited during his trip to Togo. The cathedral stands as a symbol of the country's religious history, blending colonial influence with local culture. Next, your journey continues to explore the five main voodoo shrines located on an island within the lake, each one dedicated to different spirits of the indigenous voodoo religion. These shrines offer an immersive experience into the deep spiritual and cultural beliefs of the region. Here, you'll gain insight into the voodoo traditions, learning about rituals and ceremonies that have been practiced for centuries. This tour offers a fascinating blend of Togolese history, religious significance, and cultural heritage, providing a truly unique experience in one of Togo's most sacred locations.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Togoville

 

Your Accommodation

Hotel 2 Fevrier Lome

Ideally located in the heart of Lome, Hotel 2 Fevrier is at walking distance from the main banks, ministries and embassies, only 20 minutes away from the airport and at short distance from the Lome's corporate area.

Hotel 2 Fevrier Lome

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin your journey towards Ouidah, often referred to as the cradle of African Traditional Religion. En route to Cotonou, stop to explore this historically and spiritually rich region. Your first visit is to the Temple of the Sacred Python, dedicated to the revered python, which is believed to offer vitality and protection to the local community. You'll have the opportunity to learn about the temple's significance and its role in the spiritual practices of the area. Next, visit the Sacred Forest of Ouidah, a powerful symbol of Benin's spiritual heritage. This enchanting forest is home to numerous shrines dedicated to various deities, each representing different aspects of life and nature. The atmosphere here is both serene and sacred, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the indigenous spiritual traditions that have shaped the region's culture for centuries. Afterwards, make your way to the Port of No Return, a solemn monument commemorating the tragic history of the transatlantic slave trade. Built by the Benin government, this site serves as a poignant reminder of the millions of Africans who were forcibly taken from the Dahomey Empire. Standing at this monument is a deeply moving experience, reflecting on the lasting legacy of the slave trade and the resilience of those who were affected by it. Continue your journey north to Cotonou, Benin's largest city, where you will check into your hotel and have the rest of the evening to relax and reflect on the day's profound experiences.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Lome, Ouidah and Cotonou

 

Your Accommodation

Maison Rouge Cotonou

Whether you are on a business trip to Cotonou or on vacation, the Boutique Hotel Maison Rouge is the perfect place for an exceptional stay.

Maison Rouge Cotonou

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and set off on a fascinating journey to Ganvie, often hailed as the 'Venice of West Africa.' This unique village on water offers an unparalleled glimpse into the life of a community that has lived for centuries on stilts above the water. As you arrive, you'll witness the bustling daily routines of the people of Ganvie, who navigate the waterways in dugout canoes, loaded with goods and wares, engaging in vibrant trade both with one another and with visitors. Take the opportunity to shop at the floating market, where colorful textiles, fresh produce, and handmade goods are traded amidst the tranquil surroundings. Enjoy a leisurely canoe ride through the serene waterways, marveling at the architecture of this centuries-old village, which has managed to thrive on water for over 300 years. After a delightful experience in Ganvie, return to land for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive through the heart of Cotonou, Benin's vibrant commercial and administrative capital. As you drive through the multicolored city center, admire the striking statues and monuments that celebrate Benin's rich culture and history, offering insight into the country's artistic traditions and political heritage.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Cotonou - Ganvie

 

Your Accommodation

Maison Rouge Cotonou

Whether you are on a business trip to Cotonou or on vacation, the Boutique Hotel Maison Rouge is the perfect place for an exceptional stay.

Maison Rouge Cotonou

The Royal Palaces of Abomey, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stand as one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks in Abomey and the greater Benin region. Revered for their role in preserving the cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom, the palaces attract thousands of international visitors each year, eager to immerse themselves in the rich history and artistry that the site embodies. These grand palaces not only showcase the intricate architectural style of the Benin monarchy but also serve as living symbols of the nation's traditions. They remain active sites of cultural importance, hosting traditional ceremonies that celebrate Benin's deep-rooted customs, rituals, music, and religious practices. During these events, visitors can witness vibrant performances, including the rhythmic music of the Benin Kingdom, as well as the enactment of ancient rituals that continue to be passed down through generations. These ceremonies play a pivotal role in the preservation and conservation of the palaces, as their ongoing functionality ensures that the cultural traditions of the Benin people are kept alive. In addition to the palaces, nearby attractions include the Fetish Temple, which offers a deeper understanding of the religious practices of the region, and a local arts center where visitors can purchase traditional handicrafts, supporting local artisans and bringing a piece of Benin's cultural legacy home

Meal

Breakfast

 

Cotonou - Abomey

 

Your Accommodation

Maison Rouge Cotonou

Whether you are on a business trip to Cotonou or on vacation, the Boutique Hotel Maison Rouge is the perfect place for an exceptional stay.

Maison Rouge Cotonou

 

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to airport for check-in and final departure back home.

Meal

Breakfast

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