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This fantastic route from Dakar to Accra opens up a side of Africa that is completely different to the traditional safari route. This is the Africa of bustling markets, colourful festivals and music - with Mali and Senegal in particular famous for their performers. Relax on the Atlantic shores of Senegal and soak up the colour of this country before exploring Niokolo-Koba National Park. Cross into Mali to the musical capital of Bamako before visiting the magnificent mud mosque of Djenne and cruising up the Niger River to Mopti aboard a local boat before trekking through the dramatic Dogon country. After a stay in Burkina Faso, rarely visited by outsiders, we head into Ghana for some game viewing in Mole National Park. We'll travel through the Ashanti kingdom en route for the Gold Coast, visiting community projects along the way, and taking time to unwind from the rigours of the road on beautiful Elmina Beach.

what's included?

Week 1: Senegal

• Explore Dakar, Senegal's capital city
• Canoe trip in Atlantic mangroves
• 2 night stop on the beautiful beaches at Palmarin
• Overland trip on rough roads and wildcamps through Senegal

Week 2: Senegal to Mali

• 2 nights and game safaris in Niokolo Koba National Park
• Overland through western Mali
• 2 or 3 night break in Bamako, the music capital of West Africa

Week 3: Djenne & Niger River

• Visit to the Djenne Monday market and vast mud mosque
• Overnight pinasse journey from Djenne to Mopti
• Witness the masked dance and hear the rhythms of Dogon music
• 2 or 3 day trek through the Dogon tribal region on the Bandiagara Escarpment

Week 4: Burkina Faso & Ghana

• Overland and 2 night stay at Ouagadougou and Bobo Dioulasso
• Big game time in the excellent wildlife area of Mole National Park, an elephant paradise

Week 5: Ghana

• Journey through central Ghana
• Relax at Lake Bosumtwe, a stunning crater lake
• Visit to Brenu School and community to see what Sabre Trust have achieved
• Relax and unwind on Elmina Beach and Cape Coast
• Explore the capital city of Accra

what can I do on the way?

(Activities available at extra costs)

• Explore the atmospheric island of Goree
• Experience the music and nightclubs of Ouagadougou
• Visit the sacred fish pond or the hilltop village of Kori near Bobo

General Notes:

Because of the nature of travelling in West Africa, the itinerary WILL vary from that published. This trip will involve crossing remote areas and there will be an element of discomfort. This is a tough but very rewarding trip.

Kitty does not cover food while staying in hotels and hostels.

All kitties are quoted in USDs, however in North and West Africa, Euros are much easier to use. Please ensure you bring Euros and not USDs for the kitty and for personal spending for these sections. The exchange of USD to Euro for the kitty will be decided by the tour leader on Day 1 of the trip.

Alternative routes starting from Dakar: