Highlights of West Africa

Barely touched by tourism, Togo is a treasure trove of unfamiliar cultures and vibrant festivities. Faded European-style buildings stand firm on tree-lined boulevards in the capital city of Lome, and market stalls overflow with colourful vegetables and voodoo charms. Head into the West African rainforest to uncover a fragile ecosystem home to over 500 species of butterfly. And watch a traditional fire dance as devoted locals leap into glowing embers, performing to the hypnotic beat of thundering drums.

Cruise along tranquil waterways teeming with wildlife in Senegal’s Djoudj National Park. One of West Africa’s most significant birdlife sanctuaries, gaggles of geese roost on the banks after long flights over the Sahara desert, and large flocks fly in perfect harmony across clear blue skies. Watch local people harvest salt from the beautiful fuchsia-pink waters of Lac Rose, and tap along to cheerful jazz in the streets of St Louis while savouring a traditional dish of thieboudienne in a local bar.

Ghana is a must for wildlife lovers: spot vibrant birdlife at Kakum National Park and elephants, antelopes and more in Mole National Park. Experience rural life with visits to Fairtrade cocoa farms and local villages, including Adanwomasi. The village is the birthplace of Ghana’s colourful Kente cloth and still produces some of the country’s finest cloth – you’ll learn the history of the designs and meet skilled weavers who use traditional looms. End the day with the perfect backdrop as you take an evening cruise along the Volta River, for more wonderful views and birdlife sightings.