Togo, Benin & Ghana

Welcome to CotonouUpon arrival at Cotonou Cadjehoun International Airport, you will proceed through immigration, claim your luggage, and clear customs. After completing the formalities, you will be greeted by your expert cultural tour guide, who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Upon arrival at the hotel, you can check in and take some time to refresh after your journey.Once you’ve settled in, meet your guide in the lobby for a brief overview of your upcoming adventure. The remainder of the evening is free for you to relax or explore the surroundings at your own pace.Cotonou, Benin’s largest city and economic hub, offers a fascinating blend of cultural heritage and modern development. As the evening is at leisure, you may choose to visit nearby attractions or stroll through the vibrant streets to get a sense of the city’s atmosphere. Benin’s rich history is reflected in the architecture, markets, and local traditions that you’ll soon delve into. MealsDinnerAccommodation3 nights at Golden Tulip Diplomate or similarServicesAirport TransferApproximate Travel time and distanceCotonou Cadjehoun International Airport to hotel: 6 km | approx. 15-20 mins 

Dahomey AmazonsFollowing breakfast, depart for Abomey, a city steeped in the powerful history of the Dahomey Kingdom. Known for its infamous royal city with walls made of blood and palaces that housed thrones resting on human skulls, Abomey stands as one of Africa’s most storied towns. The Dahomey Amazons, an all-female military regiment, were the front-line warriors in the Kingdom’s army. Their legacy, dating from 1625 to 1894, still echoes in modern-day Benin, which occupies a narrow stretch of coastline between Nigeria and Togo.Meet Queen HangbeDuring your visit, you’ll meet Queen Hangbe, the current ceremonial ruler, who along with her Amazons, leads sacred rituals at a nearby temple. You’ll have the unique opportunity to interact with the Queen and her Amazons, gaining insight into their historic and spiritual significance.Esplanade des AmazonesAfter your royal encounter, return to Cotonou to visit the ‘Esplanade des Amazones’, where a 30-metre-high statue pays tribute to the Dahomey Amazons. Conclude your day with a stop at Remembrance Square, where the city’s rich and fascinating history is displayed through monuments and works of art. Spend the rest of your day at leisure, enjoying the atmosphere of the city. MealsBreakfast, LunchAccommodationGolden Tulip Diplomate or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideApproximate Travel Time and DistanceCotonou to Abomey: Approx. 137 km | 2 hrs, 45 mins

Following breakfast, head off for Ouidah, the former slave trading post and birthplace of Voodoo. This unforgettable visit takes you to the Voodoo Museum, the Sacred Forest, the Cathedral, and the Temple of the Sacred Pythons. Continue to the place of the common grave, the tree of forgetfulness and the “Gate of no Return”. There may be a welcome reception from Dagbo Hounon, the High Priest of the voodoo cult. Later, join the local people to experience the mysteries of the Voodoo religion at Ouidah’s annual Voodoo Festival. Although there are many festivals around the country, this is the largest and most revered. You will see followers and adepts of the various voodoo gods, from the elaborately costumed Zangbetos to the followers of Kokou. Around the edges of the main performance area groups from various voodoo, temples perform their own rites and rituals. Return to Cotonou after a truly culturally inspiring day. MealsBreakfast, Dinner AccommodationGolden Tulip Diplomate or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideApproximate Travel Time and DistanceCotonou to Ouidah: 42 km | Approx. 1 hr each way

The African VeniceGanvie, often referred to as the “African Venice,” is one of West Africa’s most fascinating destinations. In ancient times, the people of Ganvie sought refuge on Lake Nokoue to escape the Dahomey warriors, who, due to a spiritual belief, would not fight on water. Over time, the community developed a unique way of life, building their homes on stilts and thriving on the lake.Today, you will experience this intriguing lake culture firsthand with a boat cruise through the peaceful waterways and fish farms. As you glide along the water, you’ll witness the iconic stilted homes and bustling floating markets. The cruise offers a captivating look into the everyday life of the Ganvie people, whose resourcefulness and history are embedded in their unique surroundings.After Lunch and TransferFollowing your visit to Ganvie, you will head back to Cotonou for lunch (not included). Afterwards, transfer to Lome, the vibrant capital of Togo. The evening is yours to explore at leisure or unwind at your accommodation. MealsBreakfast, Dinner Accommodation2 nights at Hotel Sancta Maria or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideBoat cruise through GanvieApproximate Travel time and distanceGanvie to Lome: 24 km | 40 minutes drive

Voodoo Culture and Historical LandmarksToday, you’ll embark on a visit to the historic slave house in Agbodrafo, offering a glimpse into the dark past of West Africa’s involvement in the slave trade. From here, a shared boat ride will take you to the fascinating village of Togoville, renowned as the ancestral homeland of many slaves taken to Haiti. Togoville’s rich voodoo heritage still thrives today, and you’ll witness its mystical traditions, including magic remedies and voodoo charms used to cast spells.TogovilleWhile in Togoville, you will be invited to sample some powerful herbal teas prepared by a village herbalist, offering insight into traditional medicinal practices. After this immersive cultural experience, return to Lome, Togo’s bustling capital city.LomeUpon arrival, enjoy a panoramic tour of Lome, often regarded as the most cosmopolitan city in Togo. The tour covers some of the city’s highlights, including Independence Square, the National Museum, and the Craftsmen Village. You’ll also visit the Central Market, where local artisans sell traditional articles, and the famous Fetish Market, where sacred magic products are available. Wrap up the day with a visit to the vibrant Grand Marché, known for its colourful pearls and diverse goods. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationHotel Sancta Maria or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideApproximate Travel Time and DistanceAgbodrafo to Togoville (by boat): Approx. 30 minutesReturn to Lome: 15 km | 45 minutes drive

Torgorme Village and Scenic Volta RiverAfter breakfast, embark on a journey to Akosombo, Ghana. Once you’ve completed the border formalities, enjoy a scenic drive to Torgorme, a picturesque village situated along the beautiful Volta River. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed with traditional drumming and dancing, as you pay a courtesy call to the paramount chief and village elders.Experience an authentic cultural celebration, where you will also witness a demonstration of the village’s main craft—pottery making, an art form that the local women specialise in. You’ll even get the chance to try your hand at shaping clay, gaining insights into the daily lives of the community.Volta Lake Cruise and RelaxationAfter your enriching village experience, continue the journey to Akosombo. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a spectacular cruise on Volta Lake. Surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes, you can relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere of this serene location. Afterwards, check in to your hotel and unwind with a delightful dinner. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationOvernight at Royal Senchi or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideVolta Lake cruiseApproximate Travel Time and DistanceTorgorme to Akosombo: 175 km | 3 hours 30 minutes drive

Cultural Crafting and Scenic JourneyAfter breakfast and a relaxed morning at your hotel, check out and begin your journey towards Accra. Along the way, stop at the small village of Krobo Odumase, renowned for its bead-making tradition. Here, you’ll visit the Cedi Beads Factory, where you will get a first-hand experience of the intricate craft of bead-making from specially crafted glass.You will not only observe the entire process—from shaping the glass to firing the beads—but also have the opportunity to design your own beads using traditional Krobo techniques. Beads have played a significant role in Ghana’s cultural ceremonies for over 400 years, used to mark life events such as birth, coming of age, marriage, and death.Arrival in AccraContinue your scenic drive to Accra, Ghana’s bustling capital city, arriving by early evening. Once there, transfer to your hotel for the night. Enjoy dinner at the hotel and unwind, preparing for the next day’s adventures. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodation2 nights at Lancaster Accra City Hotel or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideGuided bead-making tourApproximate Travel Time and DistanceKrobo Odumase to Accra: 80 km | 1.5 hours

La TownshipAfter a leisurely breakfast, set off to La Township, where you’ll discover the uniquely designed special caskets in the Teshie and Nungua areas. These caskets reflect the beliefs of the local people regarding life after death; for example, a bus driver may be buried in a casket shaped like a bus, while a waiter might rest in a large beer bottle. This fascinating glimpse into local customs highlights the creativity and cultural significance of funerary practices in the region.AccraNext, enjoy a scenic drive through the principal streets of Accra. Along the way, view the impressive Flagstaff House, often referred to as Ghana’s White House, before visiting the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. This memorial is the final resting place of Ghana’s first president and is surrounded by attractive gardens. The park features a museum that showcases photos, artifacts, and insights into Dr. Nkrumah’s impactful life and legacy.Shopping and SightseeingExperience authentic African shopping at the Accra Arts and Crafts Centre, where you can find unique arts, crafts, and traditional wear. After lunch (not included) at the Abajo Cafe, make a picturesque stop at the Independence Arch and the Black Star Square, the ceremonial grounds of Accra. This venue hosts national events, including the Independence Day celebration, providing a perfect opportunity to capture memorable photos for your gallery.In the evening, return to your hotel to relax and prepare for dinner at the renowned Bosphorous Restaurant. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationLancaster Accra City Hotel or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideApproximate Travel Time and DistanceLocal travel within Accra: Varies, approximately 20 km total | 1-2 hours drive

Exploration of Culture and HistoryFollowing breakfast, check out and set off from Accra to Elmina, located in Ghana’s Central Region. Along the way, stop in Mankessim to visit the Posuban Shrine. These fascinating shrines are elaborate concrete structures found in the urban areas of Fante settlements, often adorned with cryptic symbols and statues that represent various cultural beliefs.Upon arrival in Elmina, embark on a guided tour of this historic town. At the harbour, witness the vibrant scene as colourful fishing canoes prepare to head out to sea for the night’s fishing. This picturesque setting provides a perfect opportunity for photographers in the group to capture the essence of local life and stunning coastal views.After the tour, transfer to your hotel for check-in. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at the hotel, followed by an entertaining performance by fire dancers, adding a unique cultural experience to your stay. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodation2 nights at Ridge Royal Hotel or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guide Approximate Travel Time and DistanceAccra to Elmina: approx. 170 km | 2.5-3 hours drive

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before you step out to explore the slave castles and forts of Ghana. Drive a short distance to Cape Coast to see the Cape Coast Castle and the Castle Museum for a guided tour. Cape Coast Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to the “Door of No Return”.After lunch (not included), return to Elmina to visit the Elmina Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1482. This castle was the first European structure built in sub-Saharan Africa. Within walking distance to Elmina Castle, Fort St Jago originated as a chapel built between 1555 and 1558 by the Portuguese, which was later converted into a lodge and watch tower. From the vantage point of this nearby hill, the Dutch launched their successful land attack on Elmina Castle. Its primary purpose was to provide military protection to the Castle and to serve as a disciplinary institution for European convicts and malcontents. Enjoy this small hilltop fort, which provides an excellent view of Elmina and Elmina Castle. Return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. MealsBreakfast, Dinner AccommodationRidge Royal Hotel or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideApproximate Travel Time and DistanceElmina to Cape Coast: approx. 30 km | 30-40 minutes drive

After breakfast, depart to Kumasi. Make a detour to visit the Kakum National Park, one of Ghana’s most famous parks. Take a brief walking tour on the forest floor; see birds, butterflies and perhaps catch a glimpse of the forest’s over 40 species of mammals including monkeys and the reclusive forest elephant. Next, head to the canopy walkway. Kakum is home to Africa’s only aerial walkway through the treetops, a 1000-foot-long and seven-bridge walkway with viewing platforms that reach heights of over 150 feet above ground. Continue to Kumasi after lunch (not included). Transfer to your hotel; dinner at the hotel. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodation2 nights at Lancaster Kumasi or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideGuided Canopy walkway experienceApproximate Travel Time and DistanceKakum National Park to Kumasi: approx. 175 km | 3-4 hours drive

This morning, following breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive through the city with monuments dedicated to the Ashanti Rulers.Manhyia Palace MuseumVisit the Manhyia Palace Museum to obtain firsthand information on the legacies of the Ashanti kingdom, a regal history that dates to 1700 and is told with relics and artifacts.Akwasidae FestivalJoin the celebration of Akwasidae Festival; the pomp and pageantry of the Ashanti Kingdom. The King riding in a palanquin and adorned with all his gold ornaments ventures out to receive the homage of his sub-chiefs and people, it is a spectacular sight to watch the colourful canopies and umbrellas, the skilful drummers, dancers, horn-blowers and praise-singers at these regular festivals, held in honour of their ancestral spirits.National Cultural CentreLater in the day, visit the National Cultural Centre which features the Prempeh Jubilee Museum named after the former Asantehene (ruler of the Ashanti people) Nana Osei Agyeman Prempeh II. Exhibits include what is said to be a replica of the famed Golden Stool, which is believed to have descended from the sky and is the spiritual symbol of the Ashanti people.Dinner this evening is at Ike’s Café where you can enjoy the nightlife of Kumasi. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodation2 nights at Lancaster Kumasi or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideApproximate Travel Time and DistanceKumasi city tour: approx. 30 km | 1-2 hours drive (including visits)

Okomfo Abass and Kente VillageAfter breakfast, check out of your hotel and head back to Accra, taking a detour to Medoma to visit Okomfo Abass at his shrine, where you’ll learn about the fascinating practices of Ashanti Voodoo. Next, venture to the Kente Village in the lush countryside surrounding Kumasi, a striking contrast to the modern city.AdanwomaseYour first stop is Adanwomase, where you can witness the intricate process of Kente cloth being handmade on traditional looms, a craft passed down through generations. Explore the various Kente styles, with the chance to purchase some beautiful pieces. You’ll then pay a courtesy call to the paramount chief of this community, enjoying a warm welcome filled with drumming and dancing. After this cultural immersion, continue your journey back to Accra, arriving in the early evening for dinner at your hotel. MealsBreakfast, DinnerAccommodationOvernight at Accra City Hotel or similarServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideApproximate Travel Time and DistanceKumasi to Accra: approx. 270 km | 4-5 hours drive (including visits) 

Today you will drive back to Lome. Depending on the departure time of your flight, you will have the use of a day room to freshen up before transferring to the airport for your onward flight. MealsBreakfastAccommodationDay room in LomeServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guideAirport transferApproximate Travel Time and DistanceAccra to Lome: approx. 121 km | 2 hours drive