Ghana, Togo & Benin : Heritage And Rituals

Lomé, Togo's vibrant capital, is unique as the only African city once colonized by the Germans, British, and French. It also borders another nation, contributing to its distinct identity reflected in its lifestyle and architecture. Lomé is a small yet cosmopolitan hub for people, trade, and cultures. We'll visit the central market, famous for the "Nana Benz" women who control the market of expensive "pagne" cloths from Europe, and the colonial buildings in the administrative quarter. We'll also stop at the fetish market, where an eclectic assortment of ingredients for love potions and magical concoctions can be found.

Start your day at the bustling Dantokpa Market, one of West Africa's largest markets, where you can find a wide array of goods, from textiles and spices to electronics and voodoo ingredients. Next, head to the serene Fidjrosse Beach for a relaxing stroll along its beautiful sandy shores. Visit the Artisanal Center to discover local handicrafts, including traditional sculptures, masks, and textiles. Then, marvel at the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Mercy (Cathédrale Notre Dame de Miséricorde), an important religious site in Cotonou. We cross Lake Nokwe by motorized boat to reach Ganvié, the largest and most beautiful African village on stilts. With around 45,000 Tofinou inhabitants, they build their wooden huts on teak stilts. Fishing is their main activity. Despite the long human presence, Ganvié has preserved its traditions and environment, with the lake not being over-fished. Daily life unfolds in dugout canoes: men fish, women display goods at the “floating market,” and children row to school and play.

Start with a visit to the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage site.Here, you can explore the history and culture of the Kingdom of Dahomey, which was founded in 1625.The palaces house fascinating artifacts, including bas-reliefs, royal thrones mounted on human skulls, and items used in voodoo rituals. Next, head to the Dahomey Royal Museum, where you'll find exhibits that delve deeper into the kingdom's history and its notorious all-female military unit, known as the Dahomey Amazons.After exploring the palaces, visit Goho Square, home to the Statue of King Béhanzin, one of Dahomey's most famous and defiant kings, who resisted French colonization.Take time to visit the Fetish Market, offering a glimpse into the traditional beliefs and practices of the region.You'll find an intriguing array of ingredients used.

Embark on a day trip to Ouidah, a significant voodoo center and former slave port, rich in history and culture. Begin your visit at the Python Temple, where pythons are revered as representations of gods and considered sacred and powerful. Witness these sacred creatures up close, understanding their importance in voodoo beliefs. Next, head to the Gate of No Return, a stark reminder of the town’s tragic past as a major slave port. This poignant site marks the departure point for countless enslaved Africans who were shipped to the New World. The tour offers a somber and reflective experience, shedding light on this dark chapter of history. This visit to Ouidah provides a unique blend of spiritual and historical insights, leaving you with a deep appreciation of its cultural richness and poignant past.

Start your day at Musee Honme (Royal Palace) Begin your exploration with a visit to the Royal Palace, formerly the residence of King Toffa. This museum displays fascinating artifacts and personal effects of the king, giving you a deep insight into the history and culture of Porto Novo. Next, head to the Great Mosque of Porto-Novo. This mosque features unique Afro-Brazilian architecture and offers a glimpse into the city's rich historical roots.  Visit this stunning cathedral and admire its intricate stained glass windows and beautiful stone facades, a testament to the architectural grandeur of Porto Novo. Alexandre Sènou Adandé Ethnographic Museum: End your cultural tour with a visit to this ethnographic museum, established in 1957. It houses a collection of historical artifacts that offer a comprehensive overview of Benin's rich cultural heritage.

We drive back to Accra from Cotonou, we can't help but reflect on the rich tapestry of experiences we enjoyed in Benin. The bustling Dantokpa Market, with its vibrant colors and endless variety of goods, was a feast for the senses. The tranquil moments at Fidjrosse Beach provided a perfect contrast, allowing us to unwind and soak in the natural beauty.

Enjoy a free day in Accra, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Ghana's bustling capital. Here are some ideas to make the most of your day; Relax and unwind on one of Accra's most popular beaches, enjoying the sun, sea, and local food vendors. Admire contemporary and traditional African art at this well-known gallery. Stroll down this popular street, known for its shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

Immerse yourself in Ghana's captivating past with a visit to Cape Coast Castle and Elmina castles. The Cape Coast castle,originally built in 1555 as a Portuguese trading post named Cabo Corso and later developed by the Swedish in 1653, played a notable role in the trade of timber and gold before becoming a major hub in the slave trade. Visit to the Elmina Castle, also known as St. George's Castle. Built by the Portuguese in 1482, this was the first European structure in Sub-Saharan Africa and played a significant role in the region's history. Discover the castle's grounds and rooms, steeped in centuries-old stories and haunting remnants of the past. Discover Kakum National Park Journey into the heart of Ghana's natural wonder at Kakum National Park. Embark on a short walking tour through the lush forest floor, where you'll uncover the secrets of how ancient communities thrived in this verdant paradise. Keep an eye out for vibrant birds, delicate butterflies, and with a bit of luck, you might spot some of the park's 40 mammal species, including playful monkeys and the elusive forest elephant. The highlight of your visit will be the breathtaking canopy walkway—Africa's only aerial walkway through the tree canopy. Spanning 1,000 feet with seven bridges, this thrilling adventure offers unbeatable views from platforms towering over 150 feet above the ground. Experience the magic of Kakum, where history and nature converge.

Start at the W.E.B. Du Bois Center, honoring the life of one of the most prominent Pan-Africanists who chose to live and work in Ghana. Then head to Independence Square, Accra’s open-air ceremonial grounds where all national celebrations are held. Next, visit the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and Museum, a tribute to Ghana’s first President. This park, once called the Polo grounds, is where Dr. Kwame Nkrumah declared the independence of Ghana. The remains of Dr. Nkrumah and his wife rest here. Later in the Evening we transport you to the airport for departure.

• End point
• KOTOKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, Accra, Greater Accra, Ghana 00:00 - 00:55