Arrivals - 

Cotonou Cadjehoun International Airport, Cotonou, Benin 

We will collect you anytime day or night.

Today, we embrace the relaxed pace of African time. 

We will start by enjoying a leisurely breakfast with serene views of the estuary and perhaps an early dip in the pool.

Then we'll set out to explore some of the fascinating sights and museums in Cotonou, taking in the city's vibrant history and culture at a laid-back, unhurried pace.

Let's share a celebratory Welcome Dinner together tonight.

B,L,D

Today feels truly magical - almost like stepping back in time or into an entirely different world. 

We’ll begin the day by exploring the Black River, La Rivière Noire d’Adjarra … a great opportunity to practice some French along the way!

The Village of Adjarra is full of artisans and we will take time to explore and appreciate them and the musicians as well.

B,L,D

So much to explore in Porto Novo.

Palais Museum for  a deep dive into the history of the kingdom.

Voodoo Shrines to start and learn about this peaceful belief system and its rituals.

We'll see what is on at some of the contemporary art galleries.

The World Heritage  Afro-Brazialian Mosque is a lovely place to visit, so picturesque.

Definetly time for an afternoon swim, too.

B,L,D

Heading off to Abomay once home to the Dahomey Kingdom.

We will be taking a batik workshop in the afternoon creating a local scene.

Dinner will be in a fabulous sculpture garden this evening.

B,L,D

There is so much to discover in the historic town of Abomey. 

Our journey begins with a visit to the weaving center within the personal palace of the King Agonglovo. 

Later, we'll explore the Vodun Chameleon Cathedral and the starting point of the infamous "Road of No Return."

 In the afternoon, we’ll take part in an appliqué class with Mrs Accalgoun, where you'll learn techniques inspired by the traditional methods used in creating the costumes for the Egungun fetish ceremonies.

We are invited to a Egungun Fetsish Ceremony tonight, seeking blessing for the Ancestors.

B,L,D

We are driving to Ouidah via Ganvie.

As we climb in the boat to cross the lake it will feel like to are sailing into a magical land, again.

Ganvie is built on stilts over the water, boat is the only way around, small boats cross the lake with tiny sails made out of patched fabrics - all simply facinating.

Beaded costumes and banners are traditional in this area, we'll visit a man who makes some fabulous pieces.

B,L,D

Ouidah is often considered the spiritual capital of the Vodun religion and was the centre of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

We have the chance to visit the Python Temple - it is up to you how close you get to the Pythons. Learning about the Temple is very interesting and the Pythons are lovely.

We will visit The Gate at the Road of No Return, learn a little about the history of the slavetrade and appreciate the sculptures of  Egungun Spirits  who now stand at the gates to welcome the return of the Souls Ancestors whisked away a long time ago. 

There is the peaceful Secret Garden to visit and lunch before we travel onto our new home on the lake.

Then we drive across to Possotome on the banks of Lake Aheme for a relaxing afternoon.

In the evening we will experience a Zangbeto Ceremony, these protective Spirits only come out after dark and protect the village.

B,L,D

WE cross into TOGO today - check your visa for entry starts on this date.

Our destination is a charming rural village renowned for its beautiful basket weaving. 

This is a day to unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythms of village life.

We will stay in Lomé tonight

B,L,D

Hint - when trying to say the name of our town today- the "K" is silent. Don't break your mouth trying to say it!

Our afternoon will be busy at a local wome's training centre, taking a workshop to print wax with blocks and make a length of fabric to take home and make a dress.

A restful evening on the terrasse.

B,L,D

Start the day with a Botannical Walk up on the mountain above Kpalime.

Visit the studio of Kosi Agbo, this talented artist works in a few mediums, today he is leading us in a workshop using inks derived from the forest.

The afternoon is free to relax and take it easy.

B,L

We are heading into Lomé today, it is a bit of a dusty old town but boy does it have some hidden treasures.

The Palais Museum is a gem and where we will start.

You will hear about the inspiring women traders the Nana Benz, after the museum we will head into the Central market and their cloth market. 

This comes with a warning!! Mountains of neatly stacked African Wax Prints and keen traders.  Tell yourself you are "Helping the Local Ecconomy- almost charity" as you explode your suitcase.

In the afternoon we will visit the studio of Jean Koumy, you will have admired some of his murals in our travels around town.

We stay tonight at a beachside resort and sleep to the sound of the waves lapping the shore.

B,L,D

This moring we head a little out of town to a small village where the Tradition of Honouring Twins is held in high regard.

The Ewe People in Togo, and the Fon in Benin, follow a twin cult. Twins are regarded as the chosen ones of the spirit powers. Their amazing closeness, which is believed to survive even death, is stressed.  

We will have this fascinating cult explained is a small village, as well as the cance to explore.

Their major crop is pineapple and you will be treated to some of the sweetest pineapple ever.

In the evening let's share a Celebratory Farewell Dinner togther.

B,L,D

Departures from 

Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport in Lomé, Togo

We will drop you to the airport to meet your flight.

B

* Those joining us in Ghana - we will leave via our bus for Accra, you'll be there in time for afternoon tea.

Physical Fitness for Sightseeing 

This adventure is crafted for enthusiastic, active travellers with a good general level of health and mobility.

To make the most of your experience, you’ll need to be comfortable walking for 3–4 hours a day — sometimes over uneven ground, up hills, and climbing a few flights of stairs.

You may also find yourself getting in and out of local transport and navigating the occasional over-the-bath shower.

If you enjoy a bit of daily movement and love discovering new places on foot, you’ll thrive on this tour.

Just a friendly heads-up: we need to walk at an average pace - it will not be suitable for those who prefer a slow pace or need frequent rest stops.

Etiquette

• West Africa is friendly and welcoming, but people generally do not like having their photo taken

• You may be told very directly to stop

Do not take photos of people without permission

• Taking photos of people – how would you feel with a camera in your face?

• A better approach – say hello first. Many people enjoy a selfie; ask for a group photo, show them, then ask for a portrait – works a charm

• Try to learn a few local courtesies – always appreciated

Note

• Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory – carry your certificate with you

• Or a doctor’s certificate for vaccination exemption

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Workshops

• Our hosts enjoy seeing what you’ve made – bring a little show and tell

• An apron for batik day can be useful

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Food

• Food is an integral part of culture – we are here to try it all

• Group meals are shared, with a range of dishes and local specialties

• In Ghana, food is cooked from scratch using fresh ingredients

• Vegetarian – limited options (red red beans, rice dishes, starches)

o Protein is usually served separately – manageable, but expect repetition

• Vegan – more challenging, but possible (dairy is not widely used)

• Onion / garlic free – difficult to manage

• Wheat free – generally easy

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Health

• Yellow Fever inoculation is mandatory for West Africa and Ghana

• Drink only filtered or bottled water – not tap, even for brushing teeth

• Aim for at least 2 litres of water daily

• Visit your doctor or a travel specialist before departure

• Bring required medications and prescriptions

• Menstrual products – pads available, tampons less so

• Bring insect repellent

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Money

• Notify your bank before travel (including transit stops)

• Travel cards can be useful – check they work before departure

• Carry a backup card, stored separately

• ATMs – generally available

• Cash – useful as a backup, though exchange rates can vary

• Credit cards – limited acceptance

o Additional fees may apply where accepted

Currency

• Ghana – Cedi

• Benin & Togo – West African CFA Franc

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Shopping

• There are treasures to find – it supports the local economy

• Bargaining is standard in markets

• NGOs and social enterprises usually have fixed pricing

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Suitcase

• Start with a medium suitcase and bring a soft bag for extra purchases

• Larger cases are harder to manage and fit on the bus

Recommended size

• Medium: 60–70 cm (H) x 40–50 cm (W) x 25–30 cm (D)

• Approx. 24–28" x 16–20" x 10–12"

• Not easy to buy luggage on the road

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Weather

• Warm to very warm during the day

• Expect the occasional shower – bring an umbrella

• Rain tends to clear the air and pass quickly

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Power

• Ghana – 240 volts, UK-style plug

• Benin & Togo – 240 volts, European plugs

• A universal adaptor is useful

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Clothing

• Lightweight, loose layers work well

• 3–4 outfits are usually sufficient

• To respect local customs: skirts or trousers mid-calf or longer; tops not too revealing

• Leave expensive jewellery at home

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Shoes

• Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or strapped sandals)

• Surfaces can be rough – good footing matters

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Laundry

• Any 2-night stop is a good opportunity

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Fitness

• Frequent stops, getting on and off the minibus

• Walking is part of the experience – often 1–2 hours at a time

• Expect some steps

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Begging

• Not encouraged

• Avoid giving sweets or gifts to children

o If you wish to give, we can pass items on to a school

• A smile and conversation go a long way

• There is no pension system in many places – offering a small amount to an elderly or disabled person can be a kind gesture

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Tipping

• Tipping is part of the local custom

• Small tips for personal services are appreciated (luggage, room service, laundry)

• Set something aside for your driver and translator

• A guide: around US$2–3 per person, per day

• A group collection at the end works well

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Environment

• Step lightly – conserve water and power

• Take rubbish with you where possible

• Say no to plastic

• Bring a cloth carry bag