Lagos: 9-Day West Africa Tour to Benin, Togo, and Ghana

Traveling through West Africa offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of history, explore vibrant cultures, and witness landscapes filled with stories of resilience. This 9-day adventure, organized by Evans Travel & Tours, takes you from Lagos to Accra, passing through Nigeria, Benin, Togo, and Ghana, revealing the region’s deep-rooted history, lively markets, and stunning castles. It’s an itinerary that balances cultural insight with authentic experiences, making it perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and travelers craving a meaningful journey.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is how it highlights the enduring legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, visiting key sites like Cape Coast Castle and Badagry Slave Museum. We also appreciate how the tour combines historical sites with cultural encounters — from visiting traditional villages to exploring art galleries — providing a well-rounded picture of West Africa today. The price point of $4,368 for a group of up to two feels reasonable given the scope of the experience, including guides, entrance fees, and transportation. However, it’s worth noting that meals, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included, so travelers should budget accordingly.

A potential consideration is the physical aspect — the tour involves quite a bit of walking and border crossings, which might be tiring for some. But if you’re comfortable with moderate travel and eager to connect with West Africa’s historical heart, this tour offers significant value. It’s best suited for travelers interested in heritage, culture, and history, who want a structured yet immersive experience.

Key Points

• Historical Significance: The tour retraces the transatlantic slave trade route, visiting key sites like Cape Coast Castle and Badagry Slave Museum.
• Cultural Encounters: Experience local villages, art galleries, and markets, gaining insight into West Africa’s vibrant traditions.
• Comfortable Transport: The journey includes air-conditioned coaches and boats, making long travel segments manageable.
• Guided Experience: An English-speaking guide ensures you understand the significance of each site.
• Authentic Experiences: From visiting Ganvie Stilt Village to exploring royal palaces, the tour offers genuine cultural insights.
• Cost-Effective for Depth: At $4,368, the tour covers many must-see sights, entrance fees, and expert guiding, providing good value for a comprehensive heritage trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lagos

Once you arrive in Nigeria’s bustling city, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. This first day is mainly about settling in and resting after your journey, preparing you for the adventures ahead. Lagos, with its bustling markets and lively streets, is a great introduction to West Africa’s energy. A tip from previous travelers: enjoy a light walk around the hotel if you’re up for it, to get a taste of Lagos’ vibrant urban life.

Day 2: Exploring Lagos

Today covers some of Lagos’ cultural highlights. Visiting the Nike Art Gallery gives you a window into contemporary African art, showcasing textiles, sculptures, and paintings. The Lekki Conservation Center offers a break from city life with its canopy walkway and nature trails—perfect for spotting local wildlife. A standout experience for many was walking through Makoko Village, a floating community on Lagos Lagoon, which reveals a different side of urban life in Nigeria. Guides here are knowledgeable and eager to share insights, often giving personal anecdotes that enrich the visit.

Day 3: From Lagos to Cotonou via Badagry

Your journey continues with a trip to Badagry Slave Museum, where you’ll learn about Nigeria’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. The Point of No Return is an emotionally charged site, marked by a symbolic door and memorials. Afterward, you’ll cross into Benin, with the tour providing a seamless border crossing experience, usually with minimal hassle. In Cotonou, sites like the Amazon Statue and the Artisan Center offer a glimpse into local craftsmanship and religious beliefs. Reviewers mention that the boat ride to Ganvie on Day 4 is particularly scenic, with the stilt village feeling like stepping into a different world.

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Day 4: Ganvie, Abomey, and Ouidah

The Ganvie Stilt Village is a highlight — a vast community built entirely on water, with houses, schools, and markets floating over the lake. It’s a surreal experience and showcases how communities adapt to their environment. Visiting the Royal Palaces of Abomey — a UNESCO World Heritage site — adds a regal dimension, while a stop at Ouidah, once a major slave trade hub, offers powerful historical context. The Ouidah Slave Route walk is both educational and sobering, and guides are often praised for their storytelling.

Day 5: From Ouidah to Lomé, Togo

Crossing into Togo, you’ll visit significant sites like the Agbodrafo Slave House and Togoville, where traditional rituals and history intertwine. The Fetish Market at Akodessewa is a vibrant, sometimes startling, display of local spiritual practices. Reviewers note the contrast between the vibrant market scenes and the solemn history, making for a compelling day of cultural contrasts.

Day 6: From Lomé to Accra

Driving into Ghana, you’ll enjoy a taste of urban life in Accra with visits to the Osu Night Market and Oxford Street, lively spots for shopping and tasting local street foods. The transition from Togo to Ghana is smooth, with the guide providing context on regional differences and shared histories.

Day 7: Exploring Accra

This full day of city sightseeing covers prominent landmarks like Black Star Square, the W.E.B. Du Bois Center, and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial. Visiting Jamestown, a historic fishing neighborhood, offers vibrant street art and a glimpse into everyday life. Past travelers appreciated the guide’s storytelling, which made the history come alive.

Day 8: Cape Coast & Elmina Castles

A deeply moving experience, the Castles of Cape Coast and Elmina are UNESCO World Heritage sites that played key roles in the slave trade. Walking through these historic structures, many visitors felt a profound connection to the past. The Kakum National Park Canopy Walkway adds an adventurous touch, with views over the forest canopy — a favorite for those seeking a bit of thrill.

Day 9: Final Visits and Departure

The last day includes visits to the Slave River at Assin Manso and the Aburi Botanical Gardens, perfect spots for reflection and relaxation. Last-minute shopping at local markets wraps up your journey before heading to the airport, with many travelers feeling they’ve gained a meaningful understanding of West Africa’s layered history.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Authentic Historical Focus: The tour is designed around significant sites connected to the transatlantic slave trade, making it ideal for those with an interest in history and human rights. Visiting both well-known castles and lesser-known community sites provides a comprehensive perspective.

Cultural Richness: Beyond history, the tour offers opportunities to see local art, participate in markets, and witness traditional practices, giving a real sense of contemporary West African life.

Seamless Logistics: The use of air-conditioned transport, guided border crossings, and included entrance fees make the experience smooth and stress-free, especially for first-time visitors.

Guided Expertise: The guides are not only knowledgeable but also attentive to the stories behind each site, often sharing personal insights that elevate the experience.

Value for Money: At the quoted price, you get a well-planned itinerary that covers a wide range of experiences, from historical sites to cultural markets, with all the logistics handled.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs and culture lovers wanting an in-depth look at West Africa’s past and present. It suits travelers who are ready for some walking and border crossings but still want comfort and guided insights. Those interested in learning about the transatlantic slave trade, exploring traditional villages, and visiting UNESCO sites will find this tour rewarding. It’s also a good pick for those who prefer a structured itinerary that balances sightseeing with culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old due to the walking involved and the nature of the sites visited.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but the guide can advise on local options at each stop.

What should I bring?
You should pack your passport, comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent.

Is there any physical difficulty involved?
Some sites involve walking on uneven surfaces or climbing stairs, so be prepared for moderate activity.

How are border crossings handled?
Border crossings are included, with guides facilitating the process, minimizing delays.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is structured, but you can ask about optional activities or extensions when booking.

What languages are spoken?
English, French, and Spanish are spoken, with guides fluent in English providing comprehensive explanations.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for most travelers aged 5 and above, but not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

How much free time is there?
The itinerary balances guided visits with some free periods, especially in cities like Accra, for shopping or relaxing.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This 9-day West African journey offers a well-rounded look at the region’s complex history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, it provides a meaningful, comfortable way to experience some of West Africa’s most significant sites while supporting authentic local communities.

You can check availability for your dates here: