The accommodations were variable, always clean and with hot water but some places were tired and in need of updating. Air conditioning was a must as it was hot and humid, however most were noisy and not good for a light sleeper.
The staff were always helpful and friendly.
Food in the hotels and restaurants was plentiful and there was always fish or chicken for those less adventurous, accompanied by mountains of rice or pasta.
We were able to meet the locals, often visiting their homes, and learn about their cultures and beliefs. Also how they lived off the land and produced most of the food they need for the villages and to sell at the market stalls. We were able to try our hand at weaving, dying cloth and making garments. All extremely interesting and an education.
We experienced Kayaking, canoeing, climbing through the tree canopies in the forest along rope bridges plus lots of other activities. All under the guidance and care of our very informative tour guide Oscar and driver Prince.
Our tours through the castles was quite daunting, learning how the slave trade treated people was shocking.
All in all our holiday was an exceptional experience, if not quite exhausting. We were disappointed with the lack of wildlife but was not through lack of exciting safari drives trying to find the animals, with so much else going on our cameras were never idol.
Jan and Arthur
Step off the tourist trail with this insightful 15-day adventure through Benin, Togo and Ghana. Learn about the history and cultures of these three diverse West African countries, from Cape Coast Castle, which played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade, to the ancient Vodun culture of Ouidah. Visit Accra's fantasy coffin makers, cruise along in traditional boats and journey through the natural landscapes seldom explored by travellers. Hike up Mt Agou – Togo’s highest peak – and visit the Wli Waterfalls – the tallest in West Africa. Walk along Kakum National Park's canopy walkway in the middle of the rainforest and look out for the local elephants, monkeys, and over 200 bird species. This diverse trip, with a local leader by your side, showcases three fascinating countries and offers a glimpse into West African life.
Explore the beautiful nature and fascinating culture of Ghana, Togo and Benin. This trip explores the most interesting highlights of Ghana, Togo and Benin and offers a unique and insightful experience of these countries with day walks, hands-on activities, and sleeping in local accommodations. The fascinating voodoo culture and local traditions that date back centuries are showcased throughout this trip. From the vibrant cities with its interesting mix of old colonial neighbourhoods to natural landscapes, rural villages, tropical farmlands and fishing communities, we will witness the daily life and soak up the friendly atmosphere. In Benin we learn about its Afro-Brazilian heritage and the slave trade that plied West African nations until relatively recent times. Spirituality is based around cultural traditions and we visit Ouidah, considered the centre of this belief. In Togo we spend time in the charming and laid-back capital of Lome, and visit the largest fetish market in West Africa, before returning to Accra Ghana where our journey concludes.
This is an Exploratory trip doing our classic Fes to Cape Town route in reverse, heading northbound instead. The itinerary is therefore flexible. This will take account of road conditions in some parts where there will be rains and plenty of mud, and of where we can apply for necessary visas en-route. Expect good weather and conditions at southern & northern ends, with poorer weather and bad roads nearer the Equator. Embarking on this expedition will give you an insight into the varied cultures of West and Central Africa and all the challenges this vast continent can throw at you. There will be days when it will be pretty tough - bad roads, harsh terrains and extremes of climates, but you will also get to experience, see and discover a continent most travellers only dream of - whilst having the experience of a lifetime!
Note: This is one of our Overland Adventures which are run on a participatory basis – you’ll be involved in the day to day running of the trip and have fun helping to cook for the group. Expect to sometimes get dusty and dishevelled and not to be able to have hot showers every night. Groups of up to 24 people are led by our crew of two.
Please note that the accommodation on this trip is predominantly camping, though there may be opportunities to upgrade this locally where rooms are available. Please see the trip inclusions for an approximate percentage of camping and room nights.
Our Overland Adventures provide once in a life time experiences and whilst some safari activities may be included in the itinerary, or be available to book locally, this should not be considered a traditional safari holiday, though we consider that part of the fun!!