Explorer trips in West Africa. Looking to explore West Africa on an explorer tour? We offer 10 explorer tours through-out West Africa, backed by over 50 reviews and offering discounts up to 27%. All our trips are offered by expert trip designers and West Africa destination experts, with trip durations ranging from 8 to 24 days.
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Accommodations
Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Ines, Fatima and Koffi tried really hard under very difficult circumstances to make this trip a success. Very fulfilling trip with many interesting sites and experiences. I highly recommend it.
Assan (guide) and Serin (driver) could not do enough for us to make sure we had a memorable trip and were a great pair to take us around the two countries. I travelled to Senegal and The Gambia over Christmas and New Year and had a wonderful time. With the right amount of Christmas, and a fun celebratory night for New Year where we danced away at the hotel. The organisation of the trip meant we were able to maximise our time in each location, though more time in Gambia would be great. Yes, the accommodation wasn't 5 star, but it was all comfortable and clean, which I view as more important. The food was plentiful and delicious - especially so on the boat on the Gambia River. We pretty much had the Gambia River to ourselves and had some amazing sightings of birdlife - Assan's knowledge of the wildlife is brilliant! Bintang Bolong staff were welcoming and friendly, wanting to make sure they provided us with a great experience - try the chocolate cake there if you have the chance. As others have noted, the pink lake is no longer pink, which is a shame, but nothing anyone can do about it. I would recommend taking the optional boat trip too, there are plenty of birds to see and some unique experience. Additionally, if you have a day spare at the beginning or end of the trip, it is worth hiring a taxi for a couple of hours to take you around Dakar to see some sights - we had a two hour tour and ticked off a couple of the highlights.
Ghana, Togo, and Benin may be compact on the map, but this 16-day tour package delivers outsized adventure and cultural depth for seasoned explorers. Starting in Accra and winding to Cotonou, you’ll traverse vibrant cities and tranquil villages across West Africa, balancing history, nature, and hands-on experiences. Stand on the powerful grounds of Cape Coast Castle, a pivotal site in the transatlantic slave trade, and deepen your understanding of Ghana’s poignant past. Get creative in a Batik-making workshop led by local women, then venture through the lush canopy walkways of Kakum National Park. Savor coastal panoramas, and engage in genuine exchanges with farmers in remote Ankasa Village, offering a window into daily rural life.
Crossing into Togo and Benin, the journey transforms into an immersion into local markets abuzz with color and life. Meet welcoming communities, and experience the roots of Voodoo culture in Ouidah — a spiritual and cultural highlight. For travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity, this tour blends meaningful engagement and discovery with manageable exertion, such as forest treks and village walks. The unique selling point: rare access to authentic West African traditions through local-led workshops, community visits, and immersive history, all within a small group setting for deeper connection. This trip is designed for experienced travelers eager for a truly enriching blend of culture, history, and adventure across three fascinating countries.
Curious about what makes Ghana pulse with life? This nine-day tour package is your invitation to explore the country’s vibrant cultural festivals, dynamic cities, and spectacular national parks. Starting and finishing in Accra, you’ll delve into the nation’s journey to independence, then venture out to spot wildlife at Shai Hills Reserve. Community guesthouses offer not just a place to stay, but a way to truly connect — cooking traditional meals, sharing movie nights, and planting trees alongside local families. The experience crescendos at the Akwasidae Festival in Kumasi, a jubilant celebration of Ashanti heritage packed with music, color, and tradition.
For seasoned travelers who appreciate a balance of cultural immersion and moderate adventure, this trip delivers hands-on reforestation, wildlife spotting, and festival participation, all in one journey. The unique selling point lies in its community-centric approach: you’re not just visiting Ghana, you’re becoming part of its ongoing story, forging authentic connections every step of the way.
If you are thinking about booking this trip... don't hesitate! This was the most amazing experience! Every time I look at my photos, I can't believe all the amazing experiences I had on this trip!
Edmund, our tour leader was fantastic! Overall, a great cultural experience !
If you’re an adventure seeker yearning for a true cultural immersion, the West African Adventure: Highlights of Ghana, Togo & Benin tour will surpass your wildest expectations. Over 24 vibrant days, this moderate-activity trip invites experienced travelers to journey deep into the heart of West Africa, led by expert guides.
Wander the lively streets of Accra, discover Ghana’s journey to liberation, and encounter wildlife in the lush reserves of Shai Hills and Kakum National Park. Dive into rural communities working to preserve their heritage, get hands-on with Batik-making, craft Krobo beads, and cook alongside locals after sourcing ingredients from bustling markets.
Witness the spiritual energy of the Akwasidae Festival in Kumasi and delve into the roots of Voodoo culture in Ouidah. The unique selling point? This tour package’s unparalleled level of community engagement, ensuring you leave with not just memories, but real connections. For those ready for a transformative West African journey, this trip is the ultimate experience.
Ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of West Africa? Togo and Benin: Local Markets, Koutammakou and Voodoo Traditions is a nine-day tour for those seeking authentic cultural encounters and a taste of the extraordinary. With a moderate activity level, this trip is a dream come true for adventure seekers looking beyond the ordinary.
Explore the rich histories of both countries by visiting key historical sites and spending meaningful time with local communities. Learn the art of kente cloth from master artisans, connect with families eager to share their traditions, and delve into the world of Ouidah—West Africa’s Voodoo capital—where you’ll hear firsthand stories from practitioners.
Led by an expert CEO, this tour package stands out for its deep cultural immersion and seamless logistics. For travelers eager to journey through two of Africa’s most vibrant countries, this is the ultimate exploration of tradition, history, and connection.
Step into the vibrant heart of Ghana with the Complete Ghana: The Beauty of Travelling West Africa tour—an immersive 16-day adventure designed for experienced travelers seeking meaningful connections and hands-on experiences. With a moderate activity level, this journey showcases Ghana’s dynamic cities, stunning coasts, and rolling inland hills.
From Accra’s electric energy to the tranquil charm of rural villages, every stop offers a window into the country’s spirit. Walk through history at Cape Coast Castle, spot wildlife in the Shai Hills Reserve and Kakum National Park, and experience the rich traditions of communities working to preserve their culture. Try your hand at Batik-making with female artisans, create your own Krobo beads, and prepare a feast using fresh market ingredients.
If you time your visit right, witness the colorful Akwasidae Festival in Kumasi—a highlight of Ghanaian tradition. The trip’s unique selling point? A perfect blend of history, culture, and hands-on interaction, ensuring your journey is as enriching as it is unforgettable. For those eager to experience Ghana in depth, this tour package delivers memories that last a lifetime.
Ghana’s coastline is awash with stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and a captivating past — and this eight-day guided tour package lets you experience it all. Ideal for adventurous travelers, the journey starts and ends in Accra, weaving through the country’s highlights at a pace that’s active yet approachable. Trace the echoes of history on the moving grounds of Cape Coast Castle, a place that shaped the nation’s story, before shifting gears for a creative Batik-making workshop with local female artisans. Trek the lush rainforest canopy in Kakum National Park and drink in sweeping coastal views that define Ghana’s natural allure. The itinerary also brings you face-to-face with rural life in Ankasa Village, where connecting with local farmers reveals the rhythms of everyday Ghana.
Combining cultural immersion, hands-on activities, and memorable nature experiences, this trip is tailored for experienced travelers seeking a well-rounded adventure. The standout feature? A perfect blend of historic sites, creative workshops, and genuine community interactions — all crafted to leave a lasting impression of Ghana’s unique spirit.
This captivating 11-day tour of Sierra Leone offers a diverse and immersive experience, blending historical exploration, cultural encounters, and natural wonders. From the vibrant capital of Freetown to the tranquil shores of Banana Island and the depths of the rainforest, you'll discover the heart and soul of this captivating country.
Begin your journey with a scenic boat ride across the Sierra Leone River to Freetown, where you'll explore historical landmarks, bustling markets, and cultural museums. Immerse yourself in the local culinary scene with a hands-on cooking class and savor the flavors of traditional Sierra Leonean cuisine.
Venture into the lush rainforest to encounter rescued chimpanzees at the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary and spend a night nestled amongst the trees in an eco-lodge. Explore the bustling city of Makeni and experience authentic village life in Rogbonko, participating in local activities like cooking and basket weaving.
Witness the awe-inspiring Wara Wara Mountains in Kabala and delve into the region's cultural heritage with a visit to a local cotton weaver. Embark on a heritage trail to the unique village of Boma, led by a female chief, and learn about local legends and traditions.
Hike through the rainforest to a mystical village, encounter fascinating folklore, and cruise to Tiwai Island, a haven for wildlife where you can spot pygmy hippos and track chimpanzees. Relax on the pristine beaches of Banana Island and River No. 2, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Confront the sobering history of the slave trade at Bunce Island, the largest British slave castle on the West African Rice Coast. Find solace in the natural beauty of Tasso Island, a tropical paradise offering a stark contrast to the somber past.
This tour provides a unique opportunity to connect with the people, culture, and nature of Sierra Leone, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime
