Mega Festival 21-Day Tour of Ghana, Togo, and Benin.

 Upon your arrival at Kotoka International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Across Africa Tours and Travel  who will transfer you to your centrally located hotel, just 7 km from the airport. The drive typically takes about 20 minutes, but please note that Accra’s traffic can vary, so it may take longer depending on the time of day. 

The remainder of the day is yours to relax and settle in. At 6:00 PM (subject to your arrival time), there will be a pre-departure meeting where you will meet your  tour leader and fellow travelers (if applicable). In case of a late arrival, the meeting will be scheduled during breakfast the following morning.

If you’re up for exploring, Accra offers a lively nightlife scene with music, bars, and nightclubs. Hotel Paloma features a vibrant sports bar, or you can simply unwind at an outdoor eatery and soak in the colorful local atmosphere. Enjoy your stay in Accra, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Ghana and beyond. 

Accommodation: Hotel Paloma  or similar
Meal Plan: No Meals

Departing from Accra, you’ll embark on a scenic drive inland to Kumasi, often referred to as the ‘Garden City’, which takes approximately 6 hours covering a distance of 250 km. This city, steeped in Ashanti history, was once the capital of a formidable kingdom and is renowned for its lush flora. Kumasi stands as a pivotal hub of Ghanaian culture, blending rich traditions with the dynamic urbanity of the developing world.

Legend has it that Kumasi played a crucial role in Ashanti history when Priest Okomfo Anokye summoned the Golden Stool from Heaven to secure Ashanti independence from rival states. He then thrust an unmovable sword into the ground, symbolizing Ashanti unity.

Upon arrival in Kumasi, your first stop will be at the Armed Forces Museum, housed within a former fort built by the British on the remnants of the Asante Fort they had razed. This museum chronicles the numerous conflicts that have shaped Ghana’s history, notably the British-Ashanti wars spanning the 19th and 20th centuries. The final clash erupted over the British Governor’s demand to sit on the sacred Golden Stool.

If time permits, you’ll also explore the expansive outdoor market, renowned as the largest in West Africa. Here, you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and vibrant culture of Kumasi.

Accommodation: Royal Park Hotel or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Kumasi, known as a royal city and home to the Ashanti King, is where you’ll find the new Manhyia Palace, the current residence of the Ashanti monarch. Today’s itinerary includes a visit to the palace’s museum, situated near the royal residence. Built by the British in 1925 and occupied by Ashanti Kings until 1974, the museum showcases the palace’s history and displays artifacts belonging to the kings, providing insights into the functions of each room.

Following this, you’ll have the extraordinary opportunity to witness the Akwasidae Festival, a revered cultural event held every 42 days at the palace. This festival pays homage to Ashanti ancestors, the king, and the sacred Golden Stool. Chiefs from across the Ashanti kingdom, adorned in traditional kente cloth, gather to honor their heritage. The king presides over the festival, meeting with subjects and sub-chiefs in the palace courtyard, and is ceremoniously carried on a lavishly adorned palanquin accompanied by drummers, dancers, and horn blowers.

After experiencing the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, the journey continues with visits to nearby craft villages. Awhiaa specializes in wood carving and stools, Ntonso is renowned for adinkra cloth printing, and Bonwire is celebrated for its weaving of kente cloth—a symbol of African cultural heritage known worldwide. Here, you’ll meet skilled artisans who continue Ghana’s proud traditions of craftsmanship.

Immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Kumasi and its surroundings as you explore these significant cultural and historical landmarks. 

Accommodation: Royal Park Hotel or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Begin your day with an early morning walking safari accompanied by an armed park guide, ideal for observing wildlife when they are most active. Throughout the day, you may also witness animals gathering at watering holes, providing additional opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Later in the evening, embark on a safari drive, considered the optimal time for encountering wildlife in their natural habitat. Tonight, you will stay overnight at the lodge within the park, where the ambient sounds of Africa will lull you to sleep.

Please note: While Mole National Park offers an enriching wildlife experience, it’s important to understand that the density of wildlife here is generally lower compared to East and Southern Africa.

Accommodation: Motel Mole or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

After a relaxed breakfast with a view of animals gathering at the watering hole, we will depart in late morning for N’Koranza, a journey that spans approximately 6 hours covering a distance of 322 km. Along the way, we will make a stop at the bustling Techiman market, located 25 km before reaching N’Koranza. This market is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and offers an opportunity to experience local commerce and culture firsthand.Tonight, we will stay overnight in N’Koranza, where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the charm of this rural town in the Bono East Region of Ghana.

Accommodation: MkeSap Hotel or similar

Meal Plan: Breakfast

On the final day of the year, take the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the beach at Axim. Whether you choose to unwind, stroll along the peaceful shores, or simply relax and enjoy the resort facilities, such as restaurants, bars, an integrated water park, spa, and gym, the day is yours to indulge in leisure.

Tonight’s New Year’s Eve Celebration promises to be unforgettable. Join us for a festival dinner accompanied by a live band, set against the backdrop of a bonfire on the beach. It’s a perfect way to bid farewell to the year and welcome the new one in the enchanting setting of Axim Beach Resort.

Enjoy this special evening surrounded by the beauty of the coast and the festive spirit of Ghana’s New Year’s Eve celebration.

Accommodation: Axim Beach Resort or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today, we’ll begin with a late start following the New Year’s celebrations. After lunch, we will embark on our journey to our next destination, Elmina, which is approximately 130 km away and will take about 3 hours to reach.

In Elmina, we will delve into the poignant history of the transatlantic slave trade at St George’s Castle. This fortress is one of around 20 ‘slave castles’ constructed along the coastline of the former Gold Coast, now known as Ghana. Built between the 15th and 18th centuries by European colonial powers, these castles served as pivotal points from which an estimated 12 million Africans were forcibly transported to the Americas.

Prepare to explore and reflect upon this significant historical site, gaining insights into a dark chapter of human history that profoundly impacted the African continent and beyond.

Accommodation: Brenu Beach Resort (Beachfront) or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch 

This morning, we will depart for Kakum National Park, making a brief stop en route to visit Cape Coast. As the former capital of the Gold Coast from 1700 to 1877 and a key center of British administration,Cape Coast retains its colonial architecture amidst the tranquil ambiance of a fishing town. Yet, it is also a place haunted by the painful legacy of the brutal slave trade.

Continuing our journey, we will proceed to Kakum National Park, where we will experience the thrilling “Canopy Walk.” This extraordinary walk consists of seven separate bridges suspended among the trees, soaring over 130 feet above the forest floor.

After enjoying lunch, we will travel a further 50 km to reach Anomabo Beach Resort, our accommodation for the night. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the coastline, Anomabo Beach Resort offers a serene retreat after a day of exploration and adventure.Prepare to immerse yourself in both natural beauty and historical reflection as we journey through these significant landmarks of Ghana’s past and present. 

After an early breakfast, we will embark on our journey to Accra, covering a distance of 150 km. Upon arrival, we will spend the remainder of the day exploring the vibrant Ghanaian capital.

Our first stop will be at the National Museum, which offers an array of fascinating displays showcasing Ghana’s rich history and culture. Here, we can admire indigenous arts and crafts, explore musical instruments, examine Stone Age artifacts, and learn from exhibitions detailing the poignant history of the slave trade.

Next, we will visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, a tribute to Ghana’s first president and one of its founding fathers. It was at this historic site where independence was declared in 1957, marking a pivotal moment in Ghana’s journey towards sovereignty.

We will then proceed to Independence Square, a significant landmark symbolizing Ghana’s freedom and national identity. Finally, we will take a short walk through Jamestown, the oldest district in Accra, where we can absorb its unique atmosphere and cultural heritage.

Join us as we delve into the captivating history and vibrant present of Accra, discovering its cultural treasures and landmarks that reflect the spirit of Ghana.

Accommodation: Hotel Paloma  or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Today, we bid farewell to Ghana and embark on our journey into our first French-speaking country, Togo, known as one of Africa’s smallest nations. The drive will take approximately 6 hours, excluding time spent at the border crossing into Togo’s capital, Lomé.

Lomé, historically a colony of the British, Germans, and French, stands out as one of the few capitals situated on a border with another country. This geographic positioning has fostered a distinctive lifestyle and architectural blend, reflecting a crossroads of diverse peoples, trades, and cultures.

Prepare to explore and immerse yourself in the unique ambiance and rich tapestry of Lomé as we begin our adventure in Togo, discovering its cultural richness and historical significance.

Accommodation: Hotel Alize or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Today, we will dedicate a full day to exploring Lomé, starting with a visit to the Musée International des Arts. This museum offers a captivating collection showcasing various aspects of art and culture, providing insights into Togo’s heritage and creative expressions.

Next, we will journey to the fetish market at Akodessewa, located approximately four kilometers from the town center. This market is renowned for its remarkably eclectic array of supplies used in traditional medicines and rituals by local sorcerers. Here, you will encounter items such as monkey skulls, snake skins, warthog teeth, lion and leopard skins, dried birds, and more. Please note, this market is not for the faint-hearted due to its unique and sometimes unsettling offerings.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Lomé as we explore these significant landmarks, gaining a deeper understanding of Togo’s traditions, beliefs, and artistic heritage.

Accommodation: Hotel Alize or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Today, we will embark on a journey from Lomé towards Lake Togo, a scenic drive that will take approximately 1.5 hours covering 52 km. Upon arrival at Lake Togo, we will continue our exploration by boat to reach Togoville, a historic town renowned for its royal palace and colonial church. Togoville holds significance as the place where Voodoo practitioners were gathered before being transported as slaves to Haiti. The town maintains a strong Voodoo influence today, with numerous fetish stalls lining its streets.

After our visit and a relaxing lunch, we will resume our journey westward, crossing into our third and final country of this tour, Benin. Our destination by the end of the day will be Abomey, located 180 km away and requiring approximately a 4-hour drive. Abomey holds historical significance as the ancient capital of the Dahomey Kingdom. The city is steeped in heritage, with palaces, shrines, altars, and monuments that commemorate one of West Africa’s greatest empires. The UNESCO-listed Royal Palaces, each built by successive kings usually adjacent to the previous one, have been meticulously restored, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural legacy of the region.

Accommodation: Chez Sabine or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Today, we will immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of Abomey, starting with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum in the morning. Here, you will hear captivating stories of the Fon people and their remarkable history. Each king had distinct symbols representing their reign, and the museum showcases items belonging to these ancient kings, offering insights into the powerful Dahomey Kingdom. The kingdom’s perpetual state of war enabled its kings to capture thousands of prisoners who were subsequently sold into slavery.

In the afternoon, we will explore the underground villages of Agongointo-Zougoundo. This unique community comprises approximately 50 caves dug 10 meters into the earth, divided into sections used as living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. These caves, believed to have been constructed during the reign of Dakodonou, the second King of Abomey in the 16th century, served to shelter warriors and surprise enemies.

Tonight, prepare for an unforgettable experience as we witness the Geleden Masked Dance, performed by the local Yoruba and Fon people who practice both Voodoo and Christianity. This traditional dance honors the women of the community—both living and ancestral—as well as deities. The masks used in the dance represent various idols and add a mystical element to the ceremony.

Accommodation: Hotel Alize or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Today, we will embark on a journey southward, driving approximately 2-3 hours to reach the port of Calavi. From there, we will board a motorized ‘pirogue’, a traditional dugout canoe used by West African fishermen, to visit the fascinating lake village of Ganvie. This unique community consists of colorful bamboo houses built on stilts, creating a floating village on the water. Ganvie was founded by people seeking refuge from the Fon warriors, and today, all aspects of life, including markets, bars, and churches, unfold on the water.

After exploring Ganvie and enjoying lunch, we will continue our journey to Ouidah, located 55 km away, which will take approximately 1.5 hours by road. Ouidah is a charming and tranquil town nestled along a beautiful beach. It holds profound cultural significance as the birthplace of Voodoo, and annually hosts the renowned Voodoo Festival on January 10th. Voodoo is a deeply rooted aspect of Benin’s culture and is officially recognized as a religion, practiced by over 60% of the population. In Ouidah, Voodoo is not just a belief system but an integral part of everyday life, providing a unique insight into Benin’s historical and cultural heritage.

In Ouidah, you will have the opportunity to learn more about Voodoo, a religion often misunderstood in popular culture but deeply meaningful to its practitioners. The town itself serves as a living encyclopedia of Benin’s rich history, offering a profound exploration into the traditions, rituals, and spirituality that shape its cultural identity.

Accommodation: Hotel de la Diaspora or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

In Ouidah, you will encounter a town steeped in a captivating and colorful history, once a pivotal center during the era of the transatlantic slave trade. The Portuguese, English, and French all established forts here to safeguard their commercial interests. One such fort now houses the Ouidah Museum of History, offering a poignant glimpse into the profound impact and devastation inflicted by the slave trade on this region.

During your time in Ouidah, you will walk along the “Route des Esclaves” (Slave Route). This path symbolizes the harrowing journey that countless enslaved Africans undertook from the museum, which marks the beginning of their odyssey, to the Door of No Return, where they faced their final departure from their homeland. You will trace this route in reverse, from the fort to the museum, gaining insights into both the slave trade and the rich Voodoo history and culture of the area.

A visit to the Temple of the Sacred Python is also a significant aspect of your exploration of Voodoo. Here, the serpent deity Dangbe has been revered for generations, illustrating the central role of spiritual rituals involving herbal, mineral, animal, and spiritual elements in Voodoo practices. This religion aims to restore harmony between humans and the universe, offering a profound spiritual perspective.

In your leisure time, you may wish to visit the new Ouidah Art Museum (Villa Ajavon) or La Maison Bresil, further enriching your understanding of the cultural and artistic vibrancy that defines Ouidah.

Accommodation: Hotel de la Diaspora or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, we will depart for our final destination of this tour: Cotonou, located 55 km away. Cotonou is the largest city and economic capital of Benin, with a population of 1,228,000 inhabitants. Upon our arrival and check-in at the hotel, we will embark on a city tour. Highlights of the tour will include a visit to the expansive Dantokpa Market, renowned for its wide array of religious items, spices, and everyday goods.

Accommodation: Hotel du Lac or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Today is a free day for any last-minute shopping before your departure flight. A transfer is included to Aeroport International Cardinal Bernardin Gantin de Cotonou, marking the end of your West African tour.