Itinerary Details
Weezo to Cotonou! This means 'welcome' in the Ewe language. You arrive at the Cotonou International Airport in Benin. Your driver will meet you outside the arrival hall and take you to your accommodation.
Porto Novo, the current administrative capital of Benin, was founded by the Portuguese in the 16th century and named after Porto, Portugal. It was the former capital of the French Dahomey colony in the early 20th century. Unlike the bustling Cotonou, Porto Novo offers a slower pace and is rich in history and culture. Along with Ouidah, it was a major port in the trans-Atlantic slave trade, with many freed slaves returning here. The
city's Afro-Brazilian heritage is evident in its colourful colonial buildings, including a Brazilian-style church that now serves as a mosque. Porto Novo also has a strong voodoo presence, reflecting its vibrant cultural landscape. The recent infusion of contemporary African arts in the city's architecture is very inspiring.
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Welcome dinner. Note: if the arrival time is between 8pm and 6am (ie, during the evening/night hours), additional transfer arrangements should be made at an extra cost. Accommodation: Les Residences Ouadada https://www.ouadada.com/ or similar. (Homey guesthouse) This friendly and simple accommodation set in a beautiful flowering garden in the heart of Porto-Nov. It is part of the Cultural Centre of Ouadada and one can feel the artistic and historical inspiration of the area, further reinforced by Gerard and Helene Bassale, the proud and passionate owners. Expect clean self-contained rooms with fan or AC and natural, mostly home-grown ingredients on the breakfast menu. Your stay might coincide with an exhibition or performance. Driving distance: Cotonou - Porto Novo- 48min, ± 33.5 km
After breakfast, start your journey exploring the cultural and spiritual highlights of southern Benin.
- Porto Novo Walking Tour – Begin with a guided walk through Porto Novo’s historic neighborhoods, exploring traditional, Afro-Brazilian, and colonial areas. Admire colorful colonial buildings, including the Brazilian-style church (now a mosque), and visit sacred voodoo sites of d’Adjina. Learn about local customs and the city’s ongoing efforts to preserve its spiritual heritage. Conclude with a relaxing stop at Le Jardin des Plantes et de la Nature, a peaceful oasis in the city.
- Nature and village life along the Black River - The black river is one of the many rivers that streams into the southern Lac Noukoue and from there into the sea. But it is also a route that connects Benin to its giant neighbour, Nigeria. Despite this, it's the most tranquil waterbody in Benin. This is where you find lushly vegetated riverbanks, fishermen peddling up and down the stream using traditional dug-out canoes, and picturesque villages where you feel welcome. The local people mainly belong to the Yoruba tribe and are willing to share their daily activities. Their everyday life is centred around fishing, but they are also masters in palm wine tapping, woodcarving, and raffia for weaving and making instruments. All the crafts and items are displayed at the Adjara Market, and we will find out if the market is happening on the day of your tour (no fixed day).
- Boat trip to the stilt town of Ganvie – Ganvié is an amazing town built on stilts in Lac Noukoué. The town can only be reached by motorized canoe as it has been constructed on the open water of the lake. Roughly 40,000 people of the Tofinu tribe live in Ganvié, and it is one of the last remaining stilt villages, dating back some 400 years. At that time, the Tonifu people built these villages to escape Dahomey slave hunters who were banned from venturing into the water by religious customs. Fishing is the main activity of the Tonifu people, and it is fascinating to experience daily life on the lake. Spend some time at Chez M for lunch.
- Ouidah – Voodoo Capital of Benin – Continue to Ouidah, a town steeped in history and spiritual significance. Explore the legacy of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, visit voodoo temples and sacred sites, and gain insight into the annual Vodoun Festival. End the day relaxing on palm-fringed beaches or enjoying local cuisine in town.
Spend a full day immersing yourself in the history, culture, and spirituality of Ouidah, Benin’s voodoo capital.
- Slave Route & Point of No Return Memorial – Walk or drive along the Route des Esclaves, the historic 3.5 km path that led captives from the auction square to the Point of No Return on Ouidah beach. Reflect on the profound history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and the journeys endured by captives from across West Africa.
- Python Temple & Sacred Forest of Kpassé – Begin with a visit to the Python Temple, home to sacred and harmless pythons revered by the local community. Continue to the Sacred Forest of Kpassé, where towering trees and sculptures embody voodoo beliefs and animist traditions. A knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories about sacred trees, deities, and cultural symbolism. You can explore on foot along the Route des Enclaves or drive part of it.
- Mystical Zangbeto Ceremony – Witness the mesmerizing Zangbeto dance, performed by the enigmatic ‘Night Watchmen’ of voodoo tradition. These grass-covered guardians protect the community from evil spirits, thieves, and witches. Their swirling forms and vibrant energy offer a rare insight into the spiritual heritage of Ouidah.
On today’s journey from Ouidah to Abomey, you'll travel from the important coast to the historic city of Abomey, a true heart of Benin’s rich culture and heritage. Abomey is the capital of the ancient Dahomey Empire.
- An immersive experience in Abomey - During your visit to Abomey, you will see many temples and shrines scattered throughout the city. One temple, which looks like a church, is built in the form of a Chameleon. On request, we will inquire with the priests of the voodoo temples if there is a planned ceremony. We prefer to offer the real experience of an original voodoo ceremony to our guests instead of a pre-arranged ceremony or dance only organized for tourists. In terms of timing and costs, attendance at a ceremony is quite unpredictable, so we will discuss it with you when you are on tour. It’s always possible to visit the authentic Abomey fetish market. This is not for the faint-hearted, though; fresh monkey and dog skulls (and their corresponding smells) are popular items here.
- Visit the Royal Palace Museum (UNESCO) - Learn about Dahomey's history and visit Abomey’s UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Royal Palace Museum and the Benhazin Monuments. Abomey is the capital of the ancient Dahomey Empire. The twelve kings who ruled over the Empire built a palace within the same mud-built enclosure at Abomey, which now forms the UNESCO Royal Palace. Decorative bas-reliefs were applied to the walls of the palaces and temples throughout Abomey. These illustrate the most significant events in the evolution of the empire, military victories, and the myths, customs, and rituals of the Fon people. A guided tour will give you insight into the myths and magic of this historical town that preserves its culture and traditions with pride.
Today you will travel from the historic heart of Abomey (Benin) to the lush, green landscapes of Kpalimé (Togo). The drive takes around 4 hours and passes through rural scenery and charming towns. A border crossing is required, so keep your travel documents handy.
- Explore the “Fruit Basket” of Togo on Foot - Begin your adventure in Kouma-Konda, a village known for its artists. Your guide will introduce you to the tropical plants of the forest, explaining their medicinal uses and how they provide natural pigments for local crafts. Continue on a 2.5–3-hour forest hike to Kouma-Dunyo, the “coffee village,” where locals make their living growing and processing coffee — an ideal stop for a coffee break and light lunch.
- Kpalimé: Nature and Charm-Kpalimé is one of Togo’s prettiest towns, nestled in green rolling hills. This fertile region is dotted with cocoa and coffee plantations, fruit orchards, and vegetable farms. The town itself is lively, with cozy restaurants, relaxed bars, and a well-known craft centre — a great place to shop for souvenirs.
Today you will travel from Kpalimé (Togo) to Liati Wote (Ghana), following a scenic route through lush countryside and charming villages before arriving in the serene surroundings of Liati Wote. The drive can be bumpy in places but rewards you with beautiful views along the way. A border crossing is required, which may add extra time to your journey, so keep your travel documents handy.
- The Liati Wote Classic – Hike Mount Afadja and discover the Tagbo Falls-From the Tagbo Falls Lodge, you can follow the Classical Trails leading to Ghana's highest peak, Mount Afadjato (2-3h) and the Tagbo Falls (1.5-2h). It's also an option to climb or descend from the other side of the mountain via the neighbouring village of Gbledi. This creates an excellent round tour, and the slope to climb or descend is less steep, an advantage during the rainy season. The hike to Mount Afadjato offers stunning views. On a clear day, you can even see Volta Lake. The hike to the falls is relatively easy through tropical farmlands and cocoa plantations. Walk alongside the meandering river and refresh at the pool.
- At Leisure at Tagbo Falls Lodge -Liati Wote is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Take a gentle stroll through the village or simply relax in a cozy chair or hammock in the lodge garden, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.
Today you will travel from Liati Wote to Atimpoku, passing through green, hilly landscapes before gradually arriving at the tranquil riverbanks of the Volta. Enjoy the scenic drive and prepare to relax in the pleasant riverside surroundings of Atimpoku.
Atimpoku is a charming town located along the west bank of the Volta River, right next to the iconic Adomi Bridge, the gateway to the Volta Region. This scenic riverside location offers a range of hotels, resorts, and restaurants — making it one of the best places to enjoy Ghana’s iconic grilled tilapia.
- Explore Amedzofe, the highest hilltop settlement in Ghana - Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful town, followed by a 30-minute hike to the top of Mount Gemi, Ghana's second-highest mountain. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Volta Lake and Ghana's Eastern Region. The hike is relatively easy, with a short, steep climb at the end.
- Meet the sacred the Mona Monkeys of Tafi Atome - In the village of Tafi Atome, you will experience how the local people live in close harmony with the Lowe’s Mona monkeys. A large part of the endemic monkey population still roams the surrounding forests because it's taboo to kill this monkey. The Mona monkeys spend a great deal of time on the ground and love to be fed by visitors. However, we do not encourage visitors to feed the monkeys, due to the risk of being accidentally scratched and the risk of viruses. If you do decide to feed the monkeys, this is at your own risk.
After breakfast, take a day trip to the Ewe village of Atsiekpoe for a village walk to experience daily life activities, visit the Chief and traditional leaders, and the fetish priest.
- Experience Community Life in Atsiekpoe - Explore the friendly riverbank community of Atsiekpoe where daily life revolves around the river. Tourism has spurred various community initiatives, including a primary health centre and solar-powered drinking water supply. Join a guided walk through the village to meet the chief and residents. Observe traditional building skills, such as the use of termite clay, as thatched roofing gradually disappears. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with children playing and chickens roaming freely. The chief is down-to-earth and welcoming, eager to share local customs with visitors. Witness the blacksmithing traditions passed down through families, along with the art of weaving baskets and shrimp traps. You can also savor a local lunch, and if you’re interested in cooking, you’re welcome to join in. This experience offers a rich glimpse into the extraordinary Ewe village life.
- Afternoon go for a boat cruise on the River Volta and relax at the hotel.
After breakfast, visit the cedi beads and continue to Accra to explore the vibrant urban scene. Explore the charming old historical neighborhoods and leisurely walk-through bustling markets, absorbing the city's vibrant energy.
- Hands-On Glass Bead Making at Cedi Beads - The Krobo people are famous for their traditional hand-made beads. Beads play a key role in Krobo culture and are worn at every ceremony and celebration. Stop at a local familyrun glass beads factory and witness the century-old process of bead making from start to finish. Even though the factory exports its products far across the continent's borders, they stick to their traditional method using recycled glass bottles, termite clay.
- James Town: A Historic Walking Tour - Explore the historic neighborhoods of downtown Accra: James Town and Usher Town. These neighborhoods date back to the 17th century and are still home to the Ga fishing community. With a local guide, you'll stroll through narrow alleys, visit the Jamestown Lighthouse for harbor views, and see remnants of tunnels used during the slave trade. The tour also includes visiting the colorful Brazil House, built by freed slaves from Brazil. The tour concludes at James Town Boutique, where you can sit back and enjoy a drink.
- Visit Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park & Independence Square - Visit key monuments dedicated to Pan-Africanism and Ghana's independence, including the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, which honors Ghana's first President and symbolizes life and peace. The Mausoleum received a facelift in 2023 and now also honors other influential historical people who played a role in the independence struggle. The tour also includes the Black Star Arch and Independence Square, where the annual Independence Day parade is held.
- Explore Makola Market - Stroll through the local market. it will be busy and hectic, but very colourful and interesting. There is the Makola Market, which is a more general market with a wide range of textiles, foodstuffs, and all other items you can think of. End the day with a few souvenir shops and obviously some nice textiles or local dress for the rest of your trip.
After breakfast you will be driven to the airport in Accra for your departure flights back home. Note: Only one group transfer to the airport has been included in the price. Additional arrangements can be made at an extra cost.
