West Africa is a lively region full of history, traditions, and varied cultures. A journey of Ghana, Togo, and Benin immerses you in the heart of this cultural tapestry, from ancient kingdoms and solemn historical monuments to vibrant festivals and the deeply ingrained practice of Vodoo.

Ghana: The Gateway to West African Heritage

Ghana, a country renowned for its warmth and extensive history, provides a fascinating blend of historical landmarks and lively cultural events. It is a popular place for diaspora tourists who want to get back in touch with their ancestry.

Traditional and Cultural Experiences:

• Ashanti Kingdom: An in-depth exploration of Ashanti culture can be had by taking a journey to Kumasi, the center of the Ashanti Kingdom. Explore the Manhyia Palace Museum, discover more about the Ashanti people’s soul, the Golden Stool, and take in the colorful Akwasidae Festival, which takes place every 42 days and features royal processions, traditional drumming, and dancing.
• Makola Market: A trip to this vibrant Accra market is a sensory overload. It is a center of regional trade and an excellent opportunity to observe Ghanaians’ everyday routines and spirit of entrepreneurship.
• Traditional Festivals: Ghana’s festival schedule is jam-packed. The Akuapems of the Eastern Region celebrate Odwira, a festival of purification and honoring of their ancestors. The Ga people of Accra celebrate a historical famine with their Homowo Festival. Winneba’s Aboakyer Festival has a special deer-hunting custom. The Volta Region’s Anlo Ewe people commemorate their migration from Togo with the Hogbetsotso Festival.
• Craft Villages: Learn about traditional crafts by visiting towns that specialize in kente fabric weaving, a symbol of Ghanaian identity, or taking part in batik workshops. Other craft villages dotted around the country include wood carvers, basket weavers, and pottery makers.

Togo: The Land of Voodoo and Ancient Kingdoms

Togo offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience, with a strong focus on traditional beliefs and unique architectural styles. It is a key country for understanding the origins and practice of Voodoo

Cultural Highlights:

• Voodoo (or Vodoun) is Togo’s official religion. Tours frequently include stops to “fetish markets” like the one in Lomé, where a dizzying array of animal parts, plants, and other items are sold for use in rituals. It is also possible to watch a Voodoo ceremony, during which adherents may be possessed by spirits, providing a fascinating and immersive cultural experience.
• Lomé City: The capital city is a blend of colonial architecture and African vibrancy. Key sites include the Grand Marché, the Independence Monument, and the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
• Fire Dance at Sokode: Visitors to the center city of Sokode can experience the thrilling fire dance, a ritual performance commonly associated with festivities and spiritual rituals.
• Epe-Ekpe Festival: Held in Aného, this historical festival of the Guin people commemorates their migration from Ghana and is one of the most important ceremonies in the region.

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Price Includes

• Air fares
• 3 Nights Hotel Accomodation
• Tour Guide
• Entrance Fees
• All transportation in destination location

Complementaries

• Umbrella
• Sunscreen
• T-Shirt
• Entrance Fees

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Zürich, Switzerland

We’ll meet at 4 p.m. at our hotel in Luzern (Lucerne) for a “Welcome to Switzerland” meeting. Then we’ll take a meandering evening walk through Switzerland’s most charming lakeside town, and get acquainted with one another over dinner together. Sleep in Luzern (2 nights). No bus. Walking: light.

Day 2: Zürich–Biel/Bienne–Neuchâtel–Geneva

Enjoy an orientation walk of Zurich’s OLD TOWN, Switzerland’s center of banking and commerce. Then, leave Zurich and start your Swiss adventure. You’ll quickly discover that Switzerland isn’t just home to the Alps, but also to some of the most beautiful lakes. First, stop at the foot of the Jura Mountains in the picturesque town of Biel, known as Bienne by French-speaking Swiss, famous for watch-making, and explore the historical center. Next, enjoy a scenic drive to lakeside Neuchâtel, dominated by the medieval cathedral and castle. Time to stroll along the lake promenade before continuing to stunning Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, with its fantastic lakeside location and breathtaking panoramas of the Alps.

Day 3: Enchanting Engelberg

Our morning drive takes us from Swiss lakes to Swiss Army. At the once-secret Swiss army bunker at Fortress Fürigen, we’ll see part of the massive defense system designed to keep Switzerland strong and neutral. Afterward, a short drive into the countryside brings us to the charming Alpine village of Engelberg, our picturesque home for the next two days. We’ll settle into our lodge then head out for an orientation walk. Our stroll through the village will end at the Engelberg Abbey, a Benedictine monastery with its own cheese-making operation. You’ll have free time to wander back before dinner together. Sleep in Engelberg (2 nights). Bus: 1 hr. Walking: light.

Day 4: Interlaken Area. Excursion to The Jungfrau Massif

An unforgettable trip to the high Alpine wonderland of ice and snow is the true highlight of a visit to Switzerland. Globus Local Favorite At an amazing 11,332 feet, the JUNGFRAUJOCH is Europe’s highest railway station. Jungfrau’s 13,642-foot summit was first ascended in 1811 and in 1912 the rack railway was opened. There are lots of things to do here: enjoy the ALPINE SENSATION, THE PANORAMA 360° EXPERIENCE, and the ICE PALACE. Also receive your JUNGFRAU PASSPORT as a souvenir to take home with you. The round trip to the “Top of Europe” by MOUNTAIN TRAIN will take most of the day.