Discover Senegal and Ghana, 11 Days

Explore the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of West Africa on this captivating 11-day journey through Senegal and Ghana. Uncover the historic significance of Goree Island, witness the surreal beauty of the pink-hued Lake Retba, and explore the legacy of renowned scholar W.E.B. Du Bois in Ghana. Enjoy the traditions of local communities, discover the Ashanti heritage, and bask in the coastal treasures of this mesmerizing region. With comprehensive inclusions and a seamless itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you eager to uncover more about the wonders of Senegal and Ghana.

Key Points

• Immerse in the rich cultural heritage of West Africa through a curated 11-day journey from Dakar, Senegal to Accra, Ghana.
• Explore the historic significance of Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site with the haunting "House of Slaves."
• Marvel at the vibrant hue of Lake Retba, a natural phenomenon created by high salt content and Dunaliella salina microalgae.
• Discover the legacy of renowned African-American scholar and civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois at the dedicated center in Ghana.
• Uncover the captivating coastal attractions of Ghana, including the UNESCO-listed Cape Coast Castle and the vibrant fishing village of Elmina.

Dakar to Accra Tour Highlights

The 11-day tour from Dakar, Senegal to Accra, Ghana takes travelers on an immersive journey through the vibrant cultures and captivating landscapes of West Africa.

The itinerary includes highlights such as Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a sobering history of the Atlantic slave trade. Travelers will also visit the otherworldly Lake Retba, known as the "Pink Lake" for its vibrant hue, and the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre, honoring the influential African-American scholar.

In Ghana, the tour explores Ashanti villages and the coastal town of Cape Coast, home to the haunting Cape Coast Castle.

Throughout the journey, travelers will have the opportunity to engage with local communities and experience the rich cultural heritage of this dynamic region.

Exploring Goree Island

A poignant reminder of Senegal’s fraught history, Goree Island stands as a somber testament to the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade. Once a major hub in the slave trade, the island now houses the haunting "House of Slaves," a preserved structure that offers a haunting glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore the island’s museums, historic architecture, and scenic vistas, gaining a deeper understanding of this dark chapter in human history.

Site	Description	Duration
House of Slaves	Preserved slave quarters and holding cells	1-2 hours
Maison des Esclaves	Museum detailing the slave trade history	45-60 minutes
Porte de Non-Retour	Gateway where slaves embarked to the Americas	15-30 minutes

The Stunning Pink Lake

Nestled just outside Senegal’s coastal capital of Dakar, Lake Retba – also known as the "Pink Lake" – captivates visitors with its vibrant, otherworldly hue.

The lake’s striking pink color is due to the high salt content and the presence of Dunaliella salina, a type of microalgae that thrives in the saline environment.

Visitors can witness salt harvesters manually collecting salt from the lake’s surface, a centuries-old practice.

The lake’s serene beauty and unique natural phenomenon make it a must-see destination on any West African adventure.

Travelers can explore the lake, observe the salt harvesting, and even take a dip in the buoyant, pink-tinged waters.

W.E.B. Dubois Legacy

W.E.B. Du Bois was a renowned African-American scholar, civil rights activist, and Pan-Africanist who left an indelible mark on the world.

During your tour, you’ll visit the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre in Ghana, a museum dedicated to preserving his legacy.

Explore his pioneering work in sociology, his leadership in the NAACP, and his tireless efforts to promote racial equality and African independence.

Learn about his influence on the pan-African movement and his vision for a united Africa.

This stop offers a profound understanding of Du Bois’ enduring impact on the struggle for social justice and the shaping of modern Africa.

Discovering Ashanti Culture

Frequently, the tour itinerary includes visits to Ashanti villages, where travelers can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this renowned West African civilization.

Visitors have the opportunity to witness traditional Ashanti rituals, admire intricate craftsmanship, and learn about the significance of the region’s symbolic adinkra symbols.

The tour showcases the Ashanti’s vibrant arts, including:

• Kente cloth weaving
• Goldsmithing and jewelry making
• Pottery and woodcarving
• Adinkra textile printing
• Drumming and traditional dance performances

These immersive experiences provide a deeper understanding of the Ashanti’s enduring cultural identity and its influential role in shaping the history and traditions of Ghana.

Coastal Gems of Ghana

Along With the culture in Ashanti communities, the tour also highlights the captivating coastal regions of Ghana.

Travelers will visit the historic Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that serves as a somber reminder of the transatlantic slave trade. They’ll explore the W.E.B. DuBois Centre in Cape Coast, which honors the legacy of the renowned African-American scholar and civil rights activist.

Further along the coast, the tour includes a stop at the vibrant fishing village of Elmina, known for its bustling markets and colorful boats.

Throughout the coastal journey, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of Ghana’s rich history and the resilience of its people.

Tour Inclusions and Pricing

The tour package includes a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience for travelers. Accommodations are provided for 8 nights, with breakfast included. Ground transportation and admission fees are also covered, along with an internal flight from Senegal to Ghana.

Professional tour guides are on hand throughout the journey to provide assistance and expertise. Notable inclusions are:

• Assistance with Ghana visa application
• 8 breakfasts during the tour
• Transportation in a private vehicle
• Experienced local tour guides

The tour is priced from $6,200 per person, with the option for free cancellation and rebooking up to 6 days in advance.

Flights to Africa, travel insurance, and gratuities are additional costs.

Pickup and Meeting Details

Travelers begin their 11-day tour of West Africa by meeting at the airport exit hall in Dakar, Senegal. From this starting point, the group will embark on a journey through the highlights of the region. The tour ends in Accra, Ghana, where the guides will assist participants with their departures. The meeting and pickup options are as follows:

Location	Pickup Option
Dakar, Senegal	Airport exit hall
Accra, Ghana	Guide assistance for departure

The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers and is not wheelchair accessible. Participants must be free of any serious medical conditions to take part in the activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Join the Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome on this tour. The maximum group size is 10, so there’ll be plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers and explore West Africa’s highlights together.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 10 travelers, according to the tour specifications. As a solo traveler, you’d be joining a small group for this 11-day exploration of West Africa’s highlights from Senegal to Ghana.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating?

The tour has no age restrictions, as it’s open to all adult travelers. However, the pace and physical demands may not be suitable for very young children or the elderly. Participants should be in good general health.

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Preferences?

The tour can be customized to the traveler’s preferences. Guests can adjust the itinerary, add or remove activities, and request special accommodations upon booking. The tour provider aims to tailor the experience to each traveler’s needs and interests.

What Is the Fitness Level Required for the Activities?

The tour doesn’t require a high fitness level, but participants should be able to walk comfortably for several hours and handle short hikes. Those with limited mobility may find some activities challenging, though the tour can be customized to accommodate individual needs.

Recap

This unforgettable 11-day journey through Senegal and Ghana promises to immerse travelers in the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural wonders of West Africa. From the historic significance of Goree Island to the captivating Ashanti villages, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the vibrant communities and enduring legacies that define these remarkable destinations.