Highlights of Ghana, Togo and Benin

Akwabaa, Weezo (welcome) to Ghana. Your driver will meet you outside the arrivals hall at Accra International Airport and transfer you to your accommodation. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Ghana’s capital, Accra, is a bustling metropolis with an intriguing mix of historic colonial neighbourhoods, lively suburbs, fishing communities and leafy affluent districts. Like many rapidly growing African cities, it is constantly evolving as people arrive from across the country in search of new opportunities. The city’s character lies in its contrasts, where modern office towers stand alongside vibrant markets and busy streets filled with entrepreneurs. Each neighbourhood has its own distinct atmosphere, and together they create a dynamic and fascinating introduction to West Africa. Despite its size and busy traffic, Accra is a friendly and relatively hassle-free city that rewards exploration. Overnight: Mahogany Lodge (or similar)

Meals: D

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After breakfast, we drive (approximately 1.5 hours) to Shai Hills Resource Reserve, a protected area of coastal savannah known for its giant baobabs, rocky outcrops and caves. Home to wildlife including kob antelope, bushbuck, olive baboons, green monkeys and a variety of birdlife, the reserve offers an excellent introduction to Ghana’s natural landscapes. A 1–2 hour hike explores its hills, shrines and historic caves, which once served as refuge for the Shai people. The journey continues with a visit to a family-run glass bead workshop, where we learn about a craft that has played an important role in Ghanaian culture for centuries. Later, we travel to Atimpoku and our riverside hotel on the Volta River. The afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the setting or, for those interested, take a canoe ride with a local fisherman (additional cost). Overnight: Afrikiko River Front Resort (or similar) Driving: 85 km (53 mi); 2 hrs

Meals: B,L

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After breakfast, we continue our journey through the green rolling hills of the Avatime Mountains. We make a stop at the picturesque hamlet of Amedzofe, Ghana's highest hilltop settlement. Amedzofe is one of seven villages belonging to the Avatime Traditional Area, inhabited by the Guan people, contributing to the region's rich cultural heritage. We then continue our exploration of the region on foot, with either a village walk or the Leklebi Coffee Walk, depending on local arrangements. The village walk offers an opportunity to experience rural life and learn more about local customs and traditions, while the Leklebi Coffee Walk provides an alternative walking experience in the coffee-growing area of Leklebi. Afterwards, we continue to Liati Wote, situated at the foot of Mount Afadjato, where we settle into our accommodation. Overnight: Tagbo Falls Lodge Driving: 150 km (93 mi); 3 hrs

Meals: B,L

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This morning, we have the option to hike to Mount Afadjato, Ghana’s highest peak (2–3 hours), for sweeping views across the surrounding hills and valleys. On clear days, it is possible to see as far as Lake Volta. We also visit Tagbo Falls, following a trail through tropical farmland and cocoa plantations to one of the region’s most scenic waterfalls, where there is an opportunity to cool off in the natural pool below. This afternoon, there is a choice of two activities - please advise the guide of your preference. OPTION 1 - PALM TOUR The Palm Tour shows you the tapping of fresh palm wine from a tree trunk and the home brewing of local gin called 'Akpetesi'. This fascinates many of our visitors. This local gin is popular throughout the country, and its production is a true industry in Ghana. In a simple but innovative way, the brewers manage to produce large quantities of this popular drink with very basic means. OPTION 2 - ECO-FRIENDLY VILLAGE TOUR Liati Wote is an eco-friendly community and has always been renowned for its Liati Wote is known for its commitment to sustainability and community-led initiatives. A guided village walk provides insight into local life and the projects helping keep the community clean and environmentally conscious. Visit the Green and Clean Hub, where discarded plastic is transformed into useful products, explore Nuku Arts and its collection of recycled and locally made crafts, and learn about the environmental and educational initiatives shaping the village. Depending on the day, there may also be opportunities to engage with local residents and take part in hands-on activities. Overnight: Tagbo Falls Lodge. Walking: 5 hrs

Meals: B,L

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After breakfast, we cross the border into Togo (visa required) and continue to the lush highlands around Kpalimé. En route, we visit Mount Agou, Togo’s highest peak at 986 metres (3,234 ft). While much of the ascent is by vehicle, there is time to explore the traditional hilltop village of Agoutodji, the highest settlement in the country. Perched on the mountainside, the village offers sweeping views across the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into daily life in this rural region. Kpalimé lies in one of Togo’s most fertile areas, known for its rolling hills, forests, cocoa and coffee plantations. The town has a relaxed atmosphere and serves as a gateway to some of the country’s most scenic landscapes. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the hotel’s gardens and pool, explore the town or browse the local craft market, renowned for its handmade products and artwork. Overnight: Hotel Parc Residence (or similar) Driving: 70 km (43 mi); 2 hrs

Meals: B,L

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Enjoy a guided walk through the forest and farms around Kouma-Konda, a village near the top of Mount Klouto. During this botanical tour, we learn about all sorts of plants and trees and visit the nature-conscious village that lies at its heart. The winding forest trails lead through an array of tropical vegetation, like coffee plants and cocoa trees, as well as various tropical fruit trees. The 2.5 to 3 hour forest hike leads to the coffee village of Kouma-Dunyo, where the people earn their livelihood from coffee farming and processing. Afterwards, we take a popular short hike to Tomegbe Falls to enjoy some beautiful views and refreshments at the falls' basin, before heading back up to the hotel. Depending on local arrangements, there may also be an opportunity to take part in an optional batik workshop. Overnight: Hotel Parc Residence (or similar) Walking: 4 hrs

Meals: B,L

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Today we head to Benin through the Tohoun-Aplahoue border crossing (visa required). Please note that Benin is one hour ahead of Ghana and Togo. Our destination is Abomey, the capital of the ancient Dahomey Empire. Founded towards the end of the 17th century, twelve kings ruled over the powerful kingdom of the Fon people. The empire played an important role during the era of the transatlantic trade of enslaved people, deriving much of its wealth through trade with European merchants. Your visit to the Royal Palace Museum will provide insight into the history, customs and traditions of the Fon people. Abomey is also known for its strong cultural traditions and spiritual heritage. Vodun (often known as voodoo) is recognised as an official religion in Benin, but it is perhaps better understood as a way of life, encompassing language, philosophy, music, art, dance and medicine. Many people continue to follow ancestral practices, particularly during times of personal or community significance. During your visit to Abomey, you will see temples and shrines throughout the city. There may also be an opportunity to visit the traditional fetish market. This can be a confronting experience for some travellers, as animal remains and ritual items used in Vodun practices are openly displayed and sold. Overnight: Chez Sabine (or similar) Driving: 183 km (114 mi); 4.0-4.5 hrs

Meals: B,L

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Before leaving Abomey, we visit the remarkable Église d’Adingnigon, a church built in the shape of a chameleon. We then continue to Porto-Novo, Benin’s administrative capital and a city known for its Afro-Brazilian heritage, Yoruba culture and relaxed atmosphere. Once an important centre of the transatlantic trade of enslaved people, Porto-Novo later became home to many returnees from Brazil, whose influence can still be seen in the city’s colourful architecture and traditions. The city also has a strong Vodun presence, reflected in many aspects of daily life. Later, we explore the tranquil Black River, one of southern Benin’s most peaceful waterways. Lined with lush vegetation and small riverside communities, it offers a glimpse into local life among the Yoruba people, many of whom continue traditions centred around fishing, palm wine tapping, woodcarving and raffia weaving. Depending on the day, there may be an opportunity to visit Adjara Market, where local artisans sell handmade crafts and locally produced goods. Overnight: Residence Ouadada (or similar) Driving: 160 km (99 mi); 3-4 hrs

Meals: B,L

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Porto-Novo’s winding alleys, historic centre and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal city to explore on foot. A guided walking tour introduces the city’s traditional, Afro-Brazilian and colonial heritage, including colourful architecture and the former Brazilian-style church, now used as a mosque. The city has made significant efforts to preserve its cultural heritage, with temples, shrines, sacred trees and historic buildings found throughout its neighbourhoods. Along the way, learn more about Porto-Novo’s history and the traditions that continue to shape daily life. The walk concludes at Le Jardin des Plantes et de la Nature, a peaceful botanical garden and welcome oasis in the heart of the city. Overnight: Residence Ouadada (or similar) Walking: 3 hr

Meals: B,L

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We visit Agodji, an impressive monument honouring the legendary Amazons of Dahomey, the elite female warriors of the Fon Kingdom. The striking sculpture pays tribute to their courage and the important role women have played throughout Benin’s history. Nearby, a colourful mural stretching almost 1.5 kilometres brings the country’s history and cultural heritage to life through the work of local artists. Continuing south, we cross Lake Nokoué by motorised canoe to visit Ganvié, one of Africa’s most remarkable stilt villages. Home to around 40,000 Tofinu people, Ganvié was established more than 400 years ago as a refuge from slave raids, as religious customs prevented Dahomey warriors from entering the water. Fishing remains the community’s main livelihood, and exploring the waterways offers a fascinating glimpse into a unique way of life centred entirely around the lake. From Ganvié, we continue to the historic coastal town of Ouidah. Overnight: Domaine de la Palmeraie (or similar) Driving: 81 km (50 mi); 2 hrs

Meals: B,L

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For many travellers, Ouidah is the highlight of Benin. The town combines a rich colonial history with deep spiritual traditions and is widely regarded as the country’s spiritual capital. Ouidah also played a significant role in the transatlantic trade of enslaved people and today offers important insights into this history alongside a unique introduction to Vodun (often known as voodoo), which continues to influence many aspects of daily life and culture. We visit the Python Temple and the Sacred Forest of Kpassé, two of Ouidah’s most important spiritual sites. Home to sacred pythons protected by local traditions, the temple provides an introduction to Vodun beliefs, while the forest is dotted with sculptures representing deities, spirits and cultural stories linked to the region’s history. Later, we follow the Slave Route, a powerful and thought-provoking journey tracing the final 3.5 km (2.2 mi) travelled by countless enslaved people before being shipped to the Americas. The route leads from the former auction square to the Door of No Return monument on Ouidah’s beach, offering a moving reminder of this chapter in West African history. A highlight of the day is the opportunity to witness a Zangbeto ceremony. Known as the traditional guardians of the night in Benin and Togo, Zangbeto play an important role in local communities, acting as protectors and custodians of social order. Their colourful performances are deeply rooted in Vodun traditions and offer a fascinating insight into living cultural practices that continue today. Those interested in contemporary art may also enjoy visiting the Zinsou Foundation Museum, housed in a beautifully restored Afro-Brazilian colonial building. Its rotating exhibitions showcase the work of African artists and explore themes relevant to Benin’s history, culture and society. Overnight: Domaine de la Palmeraie (or similar)

Meals: B,L

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Today, we continue along the Slave Coast into Togo (visa required), a narrow country wedged between Benin and Ghana. Formerly part of German Togoland, the country later came under French administration before gaining independence in 1960. A pirogue excursion on the Mono River offers a different perspective on this water-rich region. Flowing from northern Togo to the Gulf of Guinea, the river forms part of the border between Togo and Benin and supports a network of mangroves, fishing villages and traditional communities. Keep an eye out for birdlife as we drift through the waterways towards Les Bouches du Roi (Mouth of the King), where the fresh waters of the Mono River meet the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, there may be opportunities to visit small riverside communities and see shrines linked to local Vodun traditions. Later, we continue to Lomé, Togo’s laid-back capital, known for its lively markets, cafés, galleries and coastal atmosphere. Here we visit Akodessawa Fetish Market, considered one of the largest traditional medicine and fetish markets in West Africa. Animal skins, bones, skulls and other ritual objects are openly displayed and sold. The market can be a confronting experience for some travellers, but it offers a fascinating insight into cultural traditions that remain important in parts of Benin and Togo. Often regarded as an open-air pharmacy, it supplies ingredients used in traditional healing and spiritual practices. Overnight: Robinson Plage (or similar) Driving: 112 km (70 mi); 2.5-3 hrs

Meals: B,L

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Today, we enjoy a final rural experience in southern Togo before returning to Lomé. A visit to the small town of Davedi offers insight into traditional Ewe culture and daily life in a region known for its pineapple and palm plantations. Explore the community and surrounding farmland on foot and learn how palm nuts are processed into palm wine and local gin. A highlight is the opportunity to learn about the tradition of Venavi, carved wooden twin dolls that play an important role in Ewe beliefs. When one twin dies, a doll is carved to represent the deceased and is cared for as a living person through daily rituals such as bathing, dressing and feeding. These practices are intended to maintain the spiritual bond between the twins and protect the surviving sibling. Complete the experience by sampling local dishes such as akple with okra and poulet bicyclette. Later, we visit the Palais de Lomé, a beautifully restored 120-year-old building that has served as the residence of German governors, French colonial administrators and later the Togolese government. Today it houses exhibitions celebrating Togolese and pan-African art and culture, surrounded by extensive botanical gardens. Depending on the exhibition schedule and cultural program at the time of travel, we may also visit the Musée International d’Art d’Afrique, home to a private collection of masks, statues and ceremonial objects from across West Africa. Overnight: Robinson Plage (or similar)

Meals: B,L

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Enjoy a leisurely morning before preparing for your departure. Your journey through Ghana, Togo and Benin concludes today in Lomé.

Meals: B

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