Cultures & Traditions
Get ready to embark on this extraordinary journey, where every moment promises to be an unforgettable adventure. Traversing four countries - Senegal, The Gambia, Ghana, and Nigeria, this is an odyssey that pays tribute to the vibrant peoples and rich traditions of West Africa. Brace yourself for an unparalleled expedition, as you dive into a world of diverse cultures, enthralling traditions, and exhilarating escapades. Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for an incredible ride!
Itinerary At a glance
Day 1-4: Dakar, Senegal
Arrive in Dakar, the vibrant capital of Senegal. Start your journey by immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of this West African nation.
Visit the historic Île de Gorée, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its dark past as a slave trading center.
Explore the bustling markets of Dakar, such as Marché Sandaga and Marché Kermel, where you can find vibrant African fabrics, local crafts, and delicious street food.
On day 3, take a day trip to Lake Retba, also known as the Pink Lake, famous for its pinkish hue caused by high salt content. Experience the traditional salt harvesting methods used by the local communities and take a relaxing swim in the salt-rich waters.
Day 5-7: Banjul, The Gambia
Fly or drive to Banjul, the charming capital of The Gambia, known for its welcoming people and beautiful natural landscapes.
Explore the vibrant streets of Banjul and try the local delicacies like domoda and benachin.
Visit the Kachikally Crocodile Pool, a sacred crocodile pool used as a site for fertility rituals. You can get up close and personal with these incredible creatures, believed to bring good luck.
On day 6, take a boat ride along the Gambia River and visit the small fishing villages of Makasutu and Juffureh. Juffureh is famous for being the ancestral home of Kunta Kinte of the Roots fame. Here, you will learn about the country's indigenous cultures and historical ties to the transatlantic slave trade.
Day 8-10: Accra, Ghana
Fly to Accra, the capital of Ghana, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant arts scene. This is a city that welcomes visitors with open arms and invites them to explore its diverse offerings and experience the warmth and culture of Ghana.
Begin your exploration with a visit to the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum, dedicated to Ghana's first president.
Explore the colourful neighborhoods of Jamestown and Osu, where you will find local markets, street art, and bustling nightlife.
On day 9, take a day trip to the Cape Coast Castle, a haunting reminder of the slave trade. Tour the castle's underground dungeons for a better understanding of the Transatlantic slave trade history.
Wind down your day with a visit to the beautiful beaches of Kokrobite or Labadi.
Day 11-14: Lagos, Nigeria
Fly to Lagos, the bustling and energetic city that never sleeps. A city of dynamic contrasts, where tradition blends harmoniously with the contemporary. Full of energy, culture, and boundless possibilities, Lagos beckons visitors to explore, engage, and be inspired by its unique spirit.
Experience the bustling markets of Balogun and Oshodi, where you can find everything from traditional fabrics to spices, electronics and handicrafts. Sample tasty street food as you weave your way through the markets.
Visit the Nike Art Gallery, a treasure trove of contemporary African art, and explore the Lekki Conservation Centre, home to diverse wildlife and a canopy walkway. Enjoy a seafood dinner in Lekki.
On day 13, take a boat ride to Badagry, a historic town known for its connections to the slave trade. Visit the Slave Route and learn about the experiences of enslaved Africans before their journey across the Atlantic.
No visit to Lagos is complete without a live music experience. Visit Fela’s Shrine in Ikeja for an unforgettable Afro Beats music and dance extravaganza.
PS - Jollof Rice is a popular dish across this region, with almost every country having their own version. It is now common to see ‘Jollof Rice wars’ playing out amongst friends, neighbours, or on social media over whose or which country’s version is the best. Join the debate by sampling jollof rice in all the countries on your itinerary, and please share your verdict with us! 😝
❡ Please note that this itinerary is a suggestion and can be customised based on your preferences, seasonality and availability of certain services.