Ghana, Togo and Benin - Voodoo Festival

Ghana, Togo and Benin - Voodoo Festival

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16 Days From

$4946

Ghana, Togo and Benin - Voodoo Festival

16 Days Starting in Cotonou and ending in Accra

Visiting: Cotonou, Porto-Novo, Ouidah, Dassa-Zoumé, Natitingou, Kpalime, Lome, Akosombo, Kumasi, Cape Coast, Kakum National Park, Accra

Tour operator:

Undiscovered Destinations

Tour code:

BVF

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please advise requests

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Special Events

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $4946

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Ghana, Togo, and Benin on the "Ghana, Togo and Benin - Voodoo Festival" tour. This unique adventure offers an unparalleled insight into the rich cultural tapestry and historical depth of West Africa. From the moment you arrive, immerse yourself in the traditions of the Ashanti people in Kumasi, explore the haunting history of Elmina and Cape Coast's slave castles, and marvel at the sunrise before venturing across Kakum National Park's canopy walk. Experience the vibrant life in Lome's fetish markets, witness a traditional voodoo ceremony, and visit the poignant 'Gate of No Return.' Navigate the stilt village of Ganvie by boat and delve into the Dahomey kingdom's history at Abomey. With highlights including cultural immersion, historical exploration, and breathtaking sightseeing, this tour promises a profound and unforgettable exploration of West Africa's heart and soul.

Highlights

  • Immerse yourself in the culture of the Ashanti people in Kumasi

  • Take a trip back in time and visit the slave castles of Elmina and Cape Coast

  • Enjoy the spectacular sunrise before heading to Kakum National Park for a canopy walk

  • Explore the bustling Togolese capital, Lome and take a stroll around the city’s unique fetish markets

  • Experience a traditional voodoo ceremony

  • Visit the beach and the sombre ‘Gate of No Return,’ the point from which slaves left Africa for the New World

  • Take a boat to the stilt village of Ganvie

  • Learn about the fascinating history of the kingdom of Dahomey at Abomey

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive Cotonou

Location: Cotonou

Accommodation Name: Hotel Casa Cielo or similar

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive in Cotonou where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight Hotel Casa Cielo or similar (D)

Day 2 : Adjarra - Porto-Novo - Ganvie

Location: Porto-Novo

Accommodation Name: Hotel Casa Cielo or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we depart for Porto-Novo the capital city of Benin. Before our arrival we enjoy a walking tour of Adjarra seeing the skilled craftsmen making traditional drums and raffia processing. During our time here we discover the art of basketry and finish our tour experiencing local gin at a traditional distillery. A short ride on the Black River enjoying nature before we set off to Porto Novo. On reaching the capital we enjoy lunch before visiting the Royal Palace, now known as the Honme Museum, and the Grand Mosque. Continue to Ganvie stilt village and on arrival take a boat tour to discover the diverse flora and fauna before returning to the hotel. Overnight Hotel Casa Cielo or similar (BLD)

Day 3 : Voodoo Festival In Ouidah

Location: Ouidah

Accommodation Name: Hotel Casa Cielo or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend today delving into the mysteries of voodoo at Ouidah’s annual voodoo festival. Although there are many festivals around the country, this is the largest. You can expect to see followers and adepts of the various voodoo gods, from the elaborately costumed Zangbetos, to the followers of Kokou, renowned for injuring themselves as a way to reach the divine. Around the edges of the main performance area you can find groups from various voodoo temples performing their own rites and rituals. This is a fascinating insight into a much-maligned religion, and unlike anything you may have seen before. Overnight Hotel Casa Cielo or similar. (BLD)

Day 4 : Abomey - Dassa

Location: Dassa-Zoumé

Accommodation Name: Jecko Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

An early start as we set off northwards to Dassa. On route we stop in Abomey (approx. 2 hours) where we enjoy a city tour, visiting the Royal Palace, the nearby craft market and Goho square to see the Statute of the Brave King Behanzin. After lunch we head to Agonlin where we experience a traditional Guelede performance which is a major highlight. As we set off on the final stretch of our journey to Dassa we stop to see traditional gari processing. Overnight Jecko Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 5 : Dassa -Natitingou

Location: Natitingou

Accommodation Name: Hotel tortora or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

An early morning departure as we set off further northwards to the Dankoli Shrine where we experience a traditional Voodoo ceremony. From here as we venture further north, where we meet the Taneka people and visit their unique villages. Continue to Natitingou and check in to your hotel. Overnight Hotel tortora or similar (BLD)

Day 6 : Natitingou - Tata Somba - Kara

Location: Natitingou

Accommodation Name: Hotel Kara or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning visit the local museum before heading to Koussoukoingou, a nearby Tata Somba community. Spend time in the community learning about their customs and enjoy lunch at the highest point of this community. After lunch continue to to Boukounbe to meet the King and experience a local Voodoo ceremony in his presence. We say goodbye to Benin and cross into northern Togo to Koutammakou a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the amazing mud houses (Takienta) of the local Batammariba community and arrive into Kara. Overnight Hotel Kara or similar (BLD)

Day 7 : Kara - Kpalime

Location: Kpalime

Accommodation Name: Parc Residence or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is mainly a travel day as we head further south to Kpalime. We enjoy the scenery during our drive and the changing communities. Lunch will be in Atakpame before continuing to Kpalime arriving in the afternoon. This afternoon we explore the forest and visit local farms as we meet the community and learn about their local customs and traditions. Overnight Parc Residence or similar (BLD)

Day 8 : Kpalmine - Lome

Location: Lome

Accommodation Name: Onomo Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a relaxed breakfast we depart for Lomé, the capital city of Togo (approx. 2 hours). On arrival enjoy lunch before taking a tour of the city in the afternoon. Visit the lively and colourful market, with the Sacred Heart Cathedral in its midst. We then head to the fascinating- if rather gruesome- fetish market, where animal parts are sold for use in traditional medicines; Vodou healers and practitioners are on hand for consultations- (please see the Notes section for more information). Overnight Onomo Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 9 : Lome – Akosombo

Location: Akosombo

Accommodation Name: Afrikiko River Front Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we leave Togo and cross the border into Ghana. Our journey takes us to the beautiful town of Akosombo where we check into our river front hotel. After a short rest we visit Akwamufie Museum then we meet with the King of this area. Early evening enjoy a river cruise where we can see local fishermen. Overnight Afrikiko River Front Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 10 : Kumasi

Location: Kumasi

Accommodation Name: Lancaster Kumasi City Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we head towards the Ashanti region of Ghana. Our first stop during our journey will be to visit a local village, Krobo, to meet one of the families that make traditional Ghanian beads. The Krobo people of Ghana are renowned for their traditional bead jewellery that dates back centuries. We spend time at one of the family compounds to have a go at producing our own beads. After a wonderful morning mixing with locals, seeing village life and making our own bead jewellery we continue towards Kumasi, arriving in the early evening. Overnight Lancaster Kumasi City Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 11 : Kumasi

Location: Kumasi

Accommodation Name: Lancaster Kumasi City or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we mix old and new as we travel back in time visiting some of the ancient communities famous for producing local cloth designs and we also experience modern day Kumasi life at the biggest market in West Africa. We start by visiting the traditional village of Adanwomasie, the birthplace of Ghana’s rich colourful Kente cloth. We then head to Ntunso where adinkra cloth and symbols originate. During our time here we learn the meanings behind the various symbols, and we can make our own strip of adinkra cloth using symbols with personal significance. We have lunch at Jofel before heading to Adum, the commercial centre of Kumasi. This afternoon visit Kejetia market, reported to be the largest outdoor market in West Africa. This evening is at leisure, or there is an option to head into town to experience local nightlife and music. Overnight Lancaster Kumasi City or similar (BLD)

Day 12 : To Bonkro

Location: Kumasi

Accommodation Name: Picarthes Guesthouse or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we visit the Manhyia Palace, home of the Asantehene King of the Ashanti’s and ruler of the powerful Asanteman Kingdom. The Palace Museum offers a fascinating excursion through the history of this powerful tribe and is extremely informative on the well documented Ashanti history and culture. After the visit to the villages of Bonkro and Breku where we have a lunch that has been prepared by a local chef. After lunch we spend time in the local community, visiting a local school and meeting the Kuapa Kokkoo farmers, who grow and sell cocoa. We learn about the chocolate-making process and how it is used for production of chocolate and soap, among other things. Enjoy dinner at the guest house before movie night with the villagers. There will also be an opportunity to head out for a forest walk to look for some forest mammals. Overnight Picarthes Guesthouse or similar (BLD)

Day 13 : Cape Coast – Elmina

Location: Cape Coast

Accommodation Name: Lemon Beach Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we bid farewell to our new friends and set off south towards Elmina in Ghana’s central region. We stop at the town of Assin Manso and the Ndonkor Nsua (Enslaved African river). This is where enslaved Africans were checked for fitness before being shipped to America. We then make our way to Cape Coast, following the same route used by the slaves, to Cape Coast Castle (UNESCO) where we learn about the recent history of Ghana. Lunch will be taken at a restaurant operated by Baobab Children’s Foundation, an organisation focused on helping and improving the lives of children in this region. This afternoon immerse yourself into true African art with a traditional batik making workshop. Overnight Lemon Beach Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 14 : Kakum National Park

Location: Kakum National Park

Accommodation Name: Lemon Beach Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A few kilometres north of the coast, in the middle of a rainforest, we will discover the Kakum National Park. This park gives you a great opportunity to observe the forest from above as Kakum has a canopy walk hung high up in the trees. The Kakum canopy walkway is the longest and highest rope bridge in the world. Walking between 120 to 150 feet above the ground, we will get an incredible view over the rain forest. At the border of the forest we find the International Stingless Bee Project, and learn about their importance to our ecosystem. After lunch we head back to the hotel for a leisurely afternoon. This evening enjoy traditional drumming from the locals. Overnight Lemon Beach Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 15 : Accra

Location: Accra

Accommodation Name: La Villa Boutique Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we head to Accra (approx. 3 hours). On arrival we have a brief stop at Black Star Square which houses the independence monument and continue to Independence Square where we find the enclosed flame of African liberation, lit by Kwame Nkrumah in 1961, before heading to Jamestown, one of Accra’s poorest suburbs, yet steeped in history. Visit Fort James, and see the interesting Brazilian stone houses, built by free enslaved Africans who came over from Brazil after the abolition of the slave trade. We also visit the National Cultural Centre, Ghana’s largest arts and crafts market and the Artist Alliance Gallery on the beach front, showcasing traditional and contemporary art and artifacts from Ghana and neighbouring countries. From here we set off for the ‘fantasy coffins’ of Teshie Nungua. After a burial, a celebration follows and it is believed that the departed move on to another world and the decorated coffins may represent the occupation of the deceased, or something that was important to them, ranging from cars and cigarette packets to crocodiles and beer bottles! During our visit we have the opportunity to meet these infamous coffin makers. Overnight La Villa Boutique Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 16 : Accra Departure

Location: Accra

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning head to the Kwame Nkrumah National Park, the final resting place of Ghana’s founder and visit the nearby local market, good for some last-minute souvenirs. After a final meal together, you will be transferred to Accra airport for your departure flight (BL)

What's Included

  • Arrival and Departure Transfers

    Includes arrival and departure transfers to and from airports.

  • Overland Transport

    Overland transport throughout the tour with a professional driver.

  • Accommodation

    All accommodation throughout the tour.

  • Guide Services

    Services of an English-speaking guide / tour leader.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary.

What's Not Included

  • Airport Taxes

    Any airport taxes are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees are not included and are required for travelers where applicable.

  • Personal Expenses

    Drinks, items of a personal nature, and tips are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travelers will be transported across Ghana, Togo, and Benin in overland transport with a professional driver, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey through these vibrant countries.

Accommodation

Guests will enjoy a variety of accommodations, from charming hotels like Hotel Casa Cielo or similar to the serene Afrikiko River Front Hotel, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout the tour.

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the ending location of the tour?

    The tour ends in Accra.

  • Are entrance fees included in the tour?

    Yes, entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary are included.

  • What is not included in the tour package?

    Airport taxes, travel insurance, visa fees, and personal expenses such as drinks, items of a personal nature, and tips are not included.

  • Are arrival and departure transfers included?

    Yes, arrival and departure transfers to and from airports are included.

  • What countries does the Ghana, Togo and Benin - Voodoo Festival tour visit?

    The tour visits Ghana, Togo, and Benin.

  • What is the starting location of the tour?

    The tour starts in Cotonou.

  • What type of transport is used throughout the tour?

    Overland transport throughout the tour with a professional driver is used.

  • What type of accommodation is provided?

    All accommodation throughout the tour is provided.

  • Is there a guide included in the tour?

    Yes, services of an English-speaking guide / tour leader are included.

  • What are some highlights of the tour?

    Highlights include immersing in the culture of the Ashanti people in Kumasi, visiting the slave castles of Elmina and Cape Coast, enjoying a canopy walk in Kakum National Park, exploring Lome's fetish markets, experiencing a traditional voodoo ceremony, visiting the stilt village of Ganvie, and learning about the kingdom of Dahomey in Abomey.

  • I’m a single traveller – will I feel out of place?

    In a word, no. We get a good mix of single travellers and couples on our group tours.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    We are happy to allocate a twin room to two single same-sex travellers. If there is no one else to travel

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    No, sorry this is not possible.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    We offer fully transferable group tour deposits (excluding any flight payments which are always non-refundable). You can change your group tour booking up to 10 weeks before departure and not lose your deposit – we will put your deposit towards any new group booking as long as you travel within 2 years of the original departure date.

  • Can I alter the tour?

    On our scheduled departures this isn’t possible, simply due to the fact that you’ll be travelling with other people. However, if you like the look of one of our advertised trips but want to tweak it slightly, then we can offer tailor made itineraries just for you, to accommodate your specific requirements.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    There are no hard and fast rules about what type of people travel on Undiscovered Destinations’ group tours – we attract people from all ages, nationalities and walks of life. What you are likely to find though is that travellers share a similar outlook about travel. We tend to attract people with a curiosity about the lesser visited corners of our planet.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been going since 2004.

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Wednesday - Thursday

Jan 08, 2025 - Jan 23, 2025
$4946

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Undiscovered Destinations allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Undiscovered Destinations allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform undiscovered destinations, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Undiscovered Destinations requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of undiscovered destinations charges.

    Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.

    At 34 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 20 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.