Ghana, Togo & Benin VIII

Day 1: Accra – Cape Coast – Elmina. (Ghana)

• We start early in the morning and drive to Cape Coast. We will have a guided tour of the Cape Coast Castle and its dungeons, where we’ll explore one of the most important historical parts of Ghana. Cape Coast and Elmina were strongholds for commerce and the slave trade. We’ll delve into their dark past, from the dungeons of their castles to the lively fishing ports that still thrive today. We’ll mingle with locals in the fish markets and try some local delicacies for lunch.
• Overnight in Elmina.

Day 2: Kakum NP – Accra

• In the early morning, we will drive to Kakum National Park (NP), one of the crown jewels of Ghana’s natural diversity. We will explore this lush virgin rainforest from the ground to the canopy. Then, on our way to Accra, we will stop to observe the unique coffins used for burial in southern Ghana, which reflect the profession, hobby, or clan of the deceased person. We will then continue to Accra to visit Black Star Square.
• Overnight Accra.

Day 3: Accra – Lome (Togo)

• Drive to the Togo border or visit any landmarks from the previous day. After crossing the border, we will visit the big market of Lomé, which offers a great view of the Sacred Heart Catholic Cathedral. We will also visit the Fetish Market at Akodessewa, where unusual products such as dead animals and wooden dolls are on sale for the well-being of the people.
• Overnight in Lomé.

Day 4: Lome – Grand Popo – Bopa-Ouidah (Benin)

• Today, we visit any landmark missed the previous day and then we cross the border into Benin with a quick stop at Grand Popo Beach. We will then continue to witness a Vodou event involving animal sacrifices. Afterward, we’ll head to Ouidah for an overnight stay.
• Overnight in Ouidah.

Day 5: Ouidah – Abomey

• We’ll explore Ouidah, an important site in Benin’s slave trade history and a crucial center of Vodou by visiting the Python Temple and the Door of No Return. Then, in Abomey, we will witness a Zangbeto performance with masks after a city tour of the old palaces, visit a chameleon temple, and explore the fetish market.

Day 6: Abomey – Ketou – Porto Novo – Cotonou

• Depart for Ketou, the capital of the Yoruba people in Benin. We will experience a Gelede mask dance in Alafia village. These masks are typically used to educate community members and are led by a woman. Next, we will drive to Porto Novo to visit the old mosque and the oldest Zangbeto temple. Finally, we will return to Cotonou for an
  overnight stay.

Day 7:  Cotonou & Ganvié

• From there, we will venture to Ganvié, the largest stilt village on Lake Nokoué, where you can experience the Egungun mask dance. Later, we will return to Cotonou for a city tour, including the Esplanade of the Amazon, the longest graffiti wall, and the arts market.
• Overnight in Cotonou

Day 8: Free time, fly out. 

• After breakfast, the worst moment of every Expedition: we say goodbye. The Expedition is finished and we fly out.