West Africa Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, transportation options, and more in this extensive guide to West Africa.


Introduction to West Africa

West Africa is a region located in the western part of the African continent, comprising 16 countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. It is a land of diversity with distinct cultures, languages, and customs. Explore the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local delicacies of West Africa.

List of Places to Visit in West Africa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The National Museum of Mali in Bamako
  • The Cape Coast Castle in Ghana
  • The Elmina Castle in Ghana
  • The Ghana Museum and Monuments Board
  • The Museum of Ethnography in Dakar, Senegal
  • The Nok Culture in Nigeria

Natural Attractions of West Africa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The stunning beaches of Dakar in Senegal
  • The wildlife of Ghana’s Kakum National Park
  • The beautiful and serene landscapes of Benin’s Pendjari National Park
  • The magnificent waterfalls of Burkina Faso’s Banfora
  • The Sahara Desert in Mauritania

Hiking/Biking Routes of West Africa

  • The hiking trail of the Mountains of Ahaggar in Algeria
  • The cliffs near Toubkal in Morocco
  • The Lion Mountain in Sierra Leone
  • The Kupe Mountains in Cameroon
  • The Dragon’s Back in Ghana

Best Things to Do in West Africa: Activities and Tours

  • Visit local markets like Medina Market in Dakar, Senegal and Makola Market in Ghana
  • Attend local festivals such as the Osun-Osogbo Festival in Nigeria
  • Take part in traditional music, art, and craft workshops
  • Explore the majestic river valleys of West Africa like the Gambia River

Week-Long Itinerary for West Africa

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the National Museum of Mali and Bamako Artisan Market
Day 2 Explore the monuments and castles in Ghana
Day 3 Get a taste of local delicacies in Senegal
Day 4 Go on a walking tour of Nigeria
Day 5 Enjoy a safari in Pendjari National Park
Day 6 Relax on the beaches of Dakar
Day 7 Visit local markets in Ghana and learn about crafts and textiles

Food and Drink Scene of West Africa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Jollof Rice in Nigeria
  • Yassa in Senegal
  • Fufu in Ghana
  • Palm Butter Soup in Liberia
  • Thieboudienne in Senegal

Local Beverages

  • Bissap in Senegal and Mauritania
  • Poyo in Sierra Leone and Liberia
  • Amarula in South Africa
  • Palmbier in Benin and Togo

Where to Stay in West Africa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses, there are plenty of lodging options available in West Africa. Some of the best hotels include The Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra in Ghana, Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako, Mali, and The Radisson Blu Hotel Dakar.

What to Buy in West Africa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • African print fabrics
  • Handmade jewelry and accessories
  • Handmade wood-carved items
  • Kente cloths
  • Musical instruments

Local Culture and Customs of West Africa

West Africa is known for its vibrant music and dance traditions. It is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, each with its unique customs and traditions. Learn more about the cultures and customs of West Africa by attending local festivals and visiting museums.

Best Time to Visit West Africa

The best time to visit West Africa is during the dry season which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is mild, and the skies are clear, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of West Africa

Do:

  • Dress modestly
  • Learn basic local phrases
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the local food and drinks

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without their permission
  • Use your left hand to eat
  • Reject offers of hospitality

Safety and Health

Safety in West Africa

West Africa is generally safe for tourists. However, petty crime is prevalent, and it is advisable to take necessary precautions like keeping your valuables secure and avoiding isolated areas after dark. Do your research before traveling to identify high-risk areas.

Health in West Africa

It is advisable to get vaccinated for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, and typhoid before traveling to West Africa. Malaria is also a risk in this region, so use mosquito nets and insect repellent to avoid getting infected.

Getting to West Africa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports in West Africa

Some of the major airports in West Africa include:

  • Kotoka International Airport in Accra, Ghana
  • Blaise Diagne International Airport in Dakar, Senegal
  • Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nigeria
  • Freetown International Airport in Freetown, Sierra Leone
  • Lome-Tokoin Airport in Lome, Togo

Bus Stations in West Africa

Some of the main bus stations in West Africa include:

  • Gare Routiere in Senegal
  • Oshodi Bus Station in Nigeria
  • Akoto Bus Terminal in Ghana
  • Kwame Nkrumah Circle Bus Station in Accra, Ghana

Other Options

Renting a car or motorcycle is also an option to travel around West Africa, but be aware of the high rates of accidents and road fatalities.

How to Get Around in West Africa

There are various means of transportation available in West Africa, including buses, taxis, motorcycles, and ferries. It is advisable to take licensed taxis or use ride-sharing apps for your safety.

Conclusion

West Africa is a land of diversity, rich culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or a history buff, West Africa has something for everyone. Now that you have a comprehensive guide to the region, start packing and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

Countries of West Africa Countries of West Africa Ganvie, Benin Ganvie, Benin Kara, Togo Kara, Togo Elmina Castle Elmina Castle The dome of Basilica of Our Lady of Peace peeking up behind the trees The dome of Basilica of Our Lady of Peace peeking up behind the trees Pygmy hippopotami, here at a zoo, can be encountered in nature at Sapo National Park Pygmy hippopotami, here at a zoo, can be encountered in nature at Sapo National Park Preparation of kelewele, fried and seasoned plantain, a popular Ghanan street snack Preparation of kelewele, fried and seasoned plantain, a popular Ghanan street snack Anopheles Gambiae, a malaria vector Anopheles Gambiae, a malaria vector


    Benin
    Burkina Faso
    Cape Verde
    Côte d'Ivoire
    Gambia
    Ghana
    Guinea
    Guinea-Bissau
    Liberia
    Nigeria
    Senegal
    Sierra Leone
    Togo