Emancipation Ghana Tour 2025 (Panafest Festival)

Accra is an evolving city that maintains its unique identity with a balance of modern and traditional areas. Visit the W.E.B. Du Bois Center, where the civil rights activist and 'Father of Pan-Africanism' lived, now a museum housing his personal library and effects. Explore the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, dedicated to Ghana's first president, featuring a museum and mausoleum. Experience the bustling Arts Center, Ghana's oldest open market, and vibrant slum areas like Agbogbloshie and Kokomba. Enjoy photo opportunities at selected spots throughout the tour.

Upon arrival, you'll be whisked away to the luxurious Zaina Lodge at Mole National Park. This award-winning 5-star hotel combines unparalleled service with stunning accommodation amidst Ghana’s breathtaking wildlife destinations. Perched on an escarpment, overlooking tranquil watering holes and featuring a refreshing pool, Zaina Lodge promises an unforgettable stay. After settling in, embark on an evening safari adventure to explore the wonders of the park from this incredible vantage point.

Wake up in the heart of the African jungle for a morning foot safari with your guide, offering the chance to see a variety of animals. Afterward, return to base before departing on a 15km journey on a dirt road to Mognori Eco Village. This flourishing eco-tourism village offers canoe safaris to see monkeys, birds, and crocodiles, tours to learn about shea butter production and traditional medicine, and drumming and dancing performances. Also meet with the Local chief and his elders and sub chiefs. In the evening, enjoy a buffet dinner with performances of the Boma Dance, a traditional northern dance depicting encounters with colonial slave raiders and the fight for freedom. This unique experience combines culture and cuisine, making for an unforgettable evening.(Boma Dance Dinner associated with Group tour only)

Fly back to Accra and connect to Kumasi for a shorter, easier trip. Upon arrival in Kumasi, the historical and spiritual capital of the former Ashanti Kingdom, explore a city once among Africa's most powerful until the British annexed it in the late 19th century. The ongoing tribute to the Asantehene (King) reflects their past grandeur. With nearly one million inhabitants, Kumasi boasts a sprawling central market, one of Africa's largest, featuring Ashanti crafts (leather goods, pottery, Kente cloth) and a variety of tropical fruits and vegetables.

Join our unique 'Din to' experience, a traditional Akan naming ceremony, at the Ashanti Palace. Witness the sacred naming rites as our guests receive new Ashanti names after initiation. These names are typically day-born and honor the esteemed ancestors who lived exemplary lives. Be part of this rich cultural tradition and immerse yourself in the heritage of the Ashanti people.

We start our journey early in the morning, heading to Cape Coast. Our first stop is Assin Manso, where we will visit the burial site of two former slaves from the U.S. and Jamaica, re-interred during Ghana's first Emancipation Day Celebration in August 1998. At Assin Manso, you'll see the "Slave River", where captured Africans were washed before being held in Slave Castles to await their journey to the Americas and the Caribbean. PANAFEST, the Pan African Historical Theatre Festival, takes place biennially in Ghana to promote unity and address the impacts of slavery and colonialism. At historical sites such as Cape Coast Castle, the festival includes a series of poignant events. One key event is the Reverential Night. This solemn occasion features a night vigil and candle-lit processions to honor the millions of African ancestors who endured the transatlantic slave trade. It is a deeply moving experience that fosters a strong connection to our heritage and promotes healing and reconciliation. Participating in PANAFEST at Cape Coast Castle offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in African history and culture, providing memorable and meaningful experiences.

Take part in the Emancipation Day Celebration at Assin Manso. Emancipation Day Celebration is a deeply symbolic event, marking the historical significance of the site where slaves were bathed in the "Slave River" before being auctioned and sent to the Americas and the Caribbean. The commemoration involves solemn activities including wreath-laying, drumming, and traditional performances. Visitors can also participate in remembrance and reconciliation ceremonies, reflect at the burial site of repatriated ancestors, and engage in discussions about the legacy of slavery and the importance of freedom and human dignity. It's an impactful experience that connects past struggles with present-day aspirations for unity and healing.

Before head back to the capital, Do the castles tour to uncover Cape Coast and Elmina's Historical Treasures.Begin your journey with a 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. Next to the Cape Coast Castle—a poignant symbol of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. This historic site, 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.

As your memorable journey comes to an end, you will be transferred for your departure. Reflecting on the rich experiences and profound connections made during this tour, take a piece of Ghana's heritage home with you. Share these stories and moments with your loved ones, keeping the spirit of unity and resilience alive. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you back to Ghana in the future!