TOGO, BENIN & GHANA…VOODO FESTIVAL & CULTURAL IMMERSIONS
January 08 - January 22, 2026
Led by Tour Lecturer, Mohamed Halouani

Uncover three of West Africa’s most colorful destinations on this special overland tour through Togo, Benin, and Ghana, each offering diverse cultures and traditions and their own distinct historical pasts. Venture off the main tourist trail to truly experience native life and blend in with the locals at every opportunity. Visit ancient cultural sites and colonial era structures, learn about the dark historical past of the slave trade, and appreciate the unspoiled natural rainforests and pristine beaches. A highlight of this adventure will be the rare opportunity to attend the colorful “Fête du Vodoun” Benin’s national voodoo festival and witness lively dances and ceremonies.

Starting in the bustling city of Lomé, the capital of Togo, discover the Akodessewa Fetish Market, an integral component of Togolese culture.

Crossing into Ouidah, Benin, engage in the thriving cultural traditions of the colorful Fête du Vodoun (Voodoo Festival) and feel the energy of the lively dances. Next, visit one of Benin’s most beautiful communities at Ganvie, known as the “Venice of West Africa.” In Abomey, explore the 16th century underground dwellings of Agongointo-Zoungoudo, built to protect the locals from invaders or provide a hideout for surprise attacks against the enemy.

In Ghana, observe the Wli Waterfalls, the highest in West Africa surrounded by a lush, semi-deciduous forest. Visit the village of Tafi Atome, a community dedicated to protecting the endangered mona monkeys and spend a few days in Kumasi, an excellent base from which to indulge in the culture and discover some important UNESCO Sites. On the journey south towards the “Gold Coast” to the historic city of Elmina, stop in Assin Manso, once an important town for the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Take part in an exciting rainforest canopy walk at Kakum National Park and learn how to create batik garments using traditional techniques. The last stop is Accra where the unique “Fantasy Coffins,” are created. These burial masterpieces are designed in a variety of shapes according to the profession or clan of the deceased such as a car, cell phone, alligator, lion, etc. are created. Finally, wander the local animated market and explore Jamestown, one of the oldest suburbs in Accra to admire its historical structures that predate the colonial era including the 17th century Fort James.

Can be combined with Atlantic Coast tour (January 22 - February 08, 2026)

Trip Grade:
II Active – Some hikes, slightly more demanding walks at or to sites, few elevations, comfortable, but busy schedule. Roads throughout this part of Africa are often poorly maintained and driving distances are long. 

LODGING Level:
**-**** Basic-Superior: Lodges and hotels with additional a nities, refined service, and comfort level acceptable to western standards (2 to 4 stars). Some accommodations in rural areas will be best available.

Tour Remarks:
Tourist facilities are very limited in the remote regions and small villages you will be visiting. There are few first-class hotels outside the cities and hotel A/C do not cool a room to American standards of comfort.

Participants should understand that this trip involves long drives in hot weather over poorly maintained roads in 4x4 vehicles. The physical shape you are in will be an important factor in your enjoyment of the trip. There are dangers inherent in any expedition traveling to remote regions such as sickness and lack of modern medical facilities. If you have any chronic health problems, we recommend considering a different trip. Knowing the nature of traveling to remote areas, all travellers on this tour will require a high level of flexibility, tolerance, and willingness to go with the flow if things change.

By signing up for this tour, you are acknowledging a full understanding and acceptance of all terms and conditions and are admitting that you are in good physical and mental health and are equipped with an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a tolerant and patient spirit to cope with the tour. Domestic flights may change last minute, forcing us to make necessary adjustments to the itinerary and the sequence of visits.

We have the full right to substitute or replace hotels and sites or activities previously described in the itinerary without notice due to possible circumstances beyond our control. It is highly advisable to purchase travel protection insurance for this tour.