Overview
NEW - Rhythms & Rituals: West Africa's Spiritual Traditions
Africa
13 days
12 nights
12 people
Moderate
History & Culture
Take a spiritual journey through West Africa, venturing into the mysterious and often misunderstood world of Vodun (known in the West as voodoo*). Connect with local community members to learn about the influence of tradition on contemporary life, including conversations with a Vodun High Priest and a village Chief. Navigate floating villages, bustling markets, and art-filled museums. Visit palaces, temples, and clay castles, and experience mesmerizing voodoo ceremonies, fire dances, and a captivating Gelede performance. Get ready for an extraordinary adventure you’ll never forget!
Special Access: Canoe up the Black River, stopping to visit Beninese villages and learning about local life from prominent community insiders.
Travel with Purpose: This trip has been designed to highlight local spiritual traditions that are often mischaracterized in other parts of the world, and to learn about these traditions from the people who carry them forward.
*Language Note: Vodun, or Vodou, is derived from the Fon word for "God" or "Spirit." You will find "Voodoo" used vernacularly in English-speaking countries, including in academic works when referencing the continuation of the religion in the Americas. Voodoo is also sometimes used to describe more sensationalist, crude stereotypes of the religion, and so can have negative connotations. Our local partners use the word Voodoo and we’ve chosen to follow their lead, while acknowledging the cultural significance of the spelling.
Highlights
- Glide through the waters of a floating village.
- Explore Benin's largest open-air market.
- Canoe up the Black River, stopping to visit Beninese villages.
- Learn about traditional and contemporary Vodun spiritual practices.
Floating villages, bustling markets, clay castles, and mesmerizing ceremonies in West Africa.
Day 1
Welcome to Benin
Bonjour! Welcome to Cotonou, the largest city in Benin. Your private transfer will whisk you away from the airport straight to your cozy hotel. After your long journey, feel free to stretch your legs with a solo stroll around the city or take a soothing dip in the hotel pool to recharge your batteries. As the sun sets, get ready for a delightful evening with your fellow explorers, as you savor your first taste of West African cuisine during a delicious welcome dinner.
Welcome to Benin
Bonjour! Welcome to Cotonou, the largest city in Benin. Your private transfer will whisk you away from the airport straight to your cozy hotel. After your long journey, feel free to stretch your legs with a solo stroll around the city or take a soothing dip in the hotel pool to recharge your batteries. As the sun sets, get ready for a delightful evening with your fellow explorers, as you savor your first taste of West African cuisine during a delicious welcome dinner.
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Welcome Dinner
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Welcome Dinner
Day 2
The Floating Village of Ganvie
An extraordinary testament to human creativity and resilience, visit Africa’s largest floating village today. Ganvie was established 400 years ago by the Tofinou people, and its origin story is rather ingenious; it was built as a refuge from Fon warriors who were hunting for slaves, who, due to their religious beliefs, would not attack those living on water. Climb aboard a motorized pirogue and cruise through this unique floating community, where traditional bamboo stilt houses, markets, bars, schools, and churches dot the water's surface. Enjoy meeting the villagers and experiencing their unique culture firsthand. Back in the city, the evening is yours to enjoy the sights and sounds of Cotonou at your own pace.
The Floating Village of Ganvie
An extraordinary testament to human creativity and resilience, visit Africa’s largest floating village today. Ganvie was established 400 years ago by the Tofinou people, and its origin story is rather ingenious; it was built as a refuge from Fon warriors who were hunting for slaves, who, due to their religious beliefs, would not attack those living on water. Climb aboard a motorized pirogue and cruise through this unique floating community, where traditional bamboo stilt houses, markets, bars, schools, and churches dot the water's surface. Enjoy meeting the villagers and experiencing their unique culture firsthand. Back in the city, the evening is yours to enjoy the sights and sounds of Cotonou at your own pace.
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Lunch
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3
Museums, Mosques & A Canoe Adventure
This morning you’ll head to the lively capital of Benin, Porto-Novo. Founded in the late 16th century by King Te-Agdanlin of Allada, Portuguese traders soon set up shop here, and by the 18th century, Porto-Novo had become a busy slave port. The city is split between a traditional section and a more European-influenced French section. We'll explore a bit of both today with a visit to King Toffa's Palace, which is now home to the Honmè Museum, followed by stops at the Da Silva Museum, the Brazilian-built Grand Mosque, and the Zangbeto Voodoo Temple. Afterward, we'll head to Adjarra for a picturesque canoe trip on the Black River. Along the way, we'll visit Beninese villages, chat with locals, and absorb local life.
Museums, Mosques & A Canoe Adventure
This morning you’ll head to the lively capital of Benin, Porto-Novo. Founded in the late 16th century by King Te-Agdanlin of Allada, Portuguese traders soon set up shop here, and by the 18th century, Porto-Novo had become a busy slave port. The city is split between a traditional section and a more European-influenced French section. We'll explore a bit of both today with a visit to King Toffa's Palace, which is now home to the Honmè Museum, followed by stops at the Da Silva Museum, the Brazilian-built Grand Mosque, and the Zangbeto Voodoo Temple. Afterward, we'll head to Adjarra for a picturesque canoe trip on the Black River. Along the way, we'll visit Beninese villages, chat with locals, and absorb local life.
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4
Market Adventures and Voodoo Tales
This morning we'll make our way to Ouidah, the historic birthplace of Vodun, traveling along the Route d'Esclaves to the Door of No Return. This powerful site is a memorial to the people who were enslaved here and taken to the New World. From there, we’ll head to the Musee d'Historic. Set in the old Portuguese Fort, this museum reveals the stories behind the powerful Kings of Dahomey who shaped this region. Later in the afternoon, return to Cotonou for a shopping experience you’ll never forge. Cotonou’s massive Dantokpa Grande Marche is a bustling open-air market that spans nearly 50 acres. Explore the endless stalls packed with fresh seafood, colorful fabrics, and voodoo essentials.
Market Adventures and Voodoo Tales
This morning we'll make our way to Ouidah, the historic birthplace of Vodun, traveling along the Route d'Esclaves to the Door of No Return. This powerful site is a memorial to the people who were enslaved here and taken to the New World. From there, we’ll head to the Musee d'Historic. Set in the old Portuguese Fort, this museum reveals the stories behind the powerful Kings of Dahomey who shaped this region. Later in the afternoon, return to Cotonou for a shopping experience you’ll never forge. Cotonou’s massive Dantokpa Grande Marche is a bustling open-air market that spans nearly 50 acres. Explore the endless stalls packed with fresh seafood, colorful fabrics, and voodoo essentials.
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Lunch
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5
Tradition, Art, and Voodoo Magic
This morning, return to Ouidah and follow in the footsteps of thousands of voodoo practitioners on a pilgrimage to the Sacred Forest of Kpasse, home to voodoo temples, statues of deities, and age-old trees full of hanging bats. After lunch, see an outstanding collection of contemporary African art at Musee de la Fondation Zinsou. End the day experiencing a hypnotic voodoo dance ceremony and learning about its meaning.
Tradition, Art, and Voodoo Magic
This morning, return to Ouidah and follow in the footsteps of thousands of voodoo practitioners on a pilgrimage to the Sacred Forest of Kpasse, home to voodoo temples, statues of deities, and age-old trees full of hanging bats. After lunch, see an outstanding collection of contemporary African art at Musee de la Fondation Zinsou. End the day experiencing a hypnotic voodoo dance ceremony and learning about its meaning.
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6
Treasures of Togo
Cross into the small but mighty country of Togo today, known for its voodoo heritage and pivotal role in the transatlantic slave trade. Head to Lake Togo first for a boat trip that’ll take you to the historic town of Togoville. This town was a major hub for Vodun practitioners. Its strong Vodun influence lingers in the bustling fetish stalls that still line the streets. Visit the Royal Palace and Colonial Church, then journey to Togo's vibrant capital, Lomé, once a British, German and French colony. Explore the city on a late afternoon orientation walking tour or kick back and relax by the hotel pool.
Treasures of Togo
Cross into the small but mighty country of Togo today, known for its voodoo heritage and pivotal role in the transatlantic slave trade. Head to Lake Togo first for a boat trip that’ll take you to the historic town of Togoville. This town was a major hub for Vodun practitioners. Its strong Vodun influence lingers in the bustling fetish stalls that still line the streets. Visit the Royal Palace and Colonial Church, then journey to Togo's vibrant capital, Lomé, once a British, German and French colony. Explore the city on a late afternoon orientation walking tour or kick back and relax by the hotel pool.
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Hotel Sarakawa or similar, Lome
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Hotel Sarakawa or similar, Lome
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7
Art, Culture & Fire: Lomé to Sokode
Start your day at Lomé's Musée International des Arts, or "Palais de Lomé," a 100-year-old former residence of French governors and Togolese leaders. Stroll through its vast park, filled with gardens and sculptures, then explore the museum’s impressive collection of masks and sculptures. Later, head north to Sokode, Togo's second-largest town. Witness a mesmerizing Fire Dance in a nearby Tem village. Originating as a warrior's homecoming celebration, the dance features daring physical acts as dancers leap into glowing embers and handle burning coals.
Art, Culture & Fire: Lomé to Sokode
Start your day at Lomé's Musée International des Arts, or "Palais de Lomé," a 100-year-old former residence of French governors and Togolese leaders. Stroll through its vast park, filled with gardens and sculptures, then explore the museum’s impressive collection of masks and sculptures. Later, head north to Sokode, Togo's second-largest town. Witness a mesmerizing Fire Dance in a nearby Tem village. Originating as a warrior's homecoming celebration, the dance features daring physical acts as dancers leap into glowing embers and handle burning coals.
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Hotel Lamirel or similar, Sokode
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Hotel Lamirel or similar, Sokode
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8
Rural Life in Bassar
This morning, set off for Bassar, known as Togo's Yam Capital, to immerse yourself in a rural culture with ancient roots. Archaeological studies claim that Bassar was the largest industrial iron producer in West Africa from the 6th century BC to the 19th century AD. Chat with the locals and learn about their farming and ironworking traditions. If available, a village Chief will talk with us and share insights into their role within the community. Continue to Kara, where we spend the next two nights.
Rural Life in Bassar
This morning, set off for Bassar, known as Togo's Yam Capital, to immerse yourself in a rural culture with ancient roots. Archaeological studies claim that Bassar was the largest industrial iron producer in West Africa from the 6th century BC to the 19th century AD. Chat with the locals and learn about their farming and ironworking traditions. If available, a village Chief will talk with us and share insights into their role within the community. Continue to Kara, where we spend the next two nights.
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Hotel Kara or similar, Kara
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Hotel Kara or similar, Kara
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
Heritage Crafts & Clay Castles
Explore the mountainous region of Kabye today, home to a rich blacksmithing tradition that has been carried on for centuries. Visit the village of Tchare, known for its fine metal work, before journeying to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Koutammakou, the ancestral home of the Tamberma people. We'll learn about fortified clay homes known as Tatas, adorned with phallic fetishes symbolizing ancestors' spirits. These impressive homesteads were designed for protection, and resemble miniature castles. We'll meet community elders in their homes before taking a walk through the village.
Heritage Crafts & Clay Castles
Explore the mountainous region of Kabye today, home to a rich blacksmithing tradition that has been carried on for centuries. Visit the village of Tchare, known for its fine metal work, before journeying to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Koutammakou, the ancestral home of the Tamberma people. We'll learn about fortified clay homes known as Tatas, adorned with phallic fetishes symbolizing ancestors' spirits. These impressive homesteads were designed for protection, and resemble miniature castles. We'll meet community elders in their homes before taking a walk through the village.
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Hotel Kara or similar, Kara
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Hotel Kara or similar, Kara
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
Return to Benin
Get ready for a full-day journey back to Benin today. We'll travel from Bassar to Dassa Zoume, soaking up the stunning West African landscapes outside our window and making stops along the way. Once in Dassa Zoume, visit the famous “Grotto of Our Lady of Arigbo” church, where the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared. Pope John Paul II also once paid it a visit and prayed here. Today, the church attracts thousands of Catholic pilgrims from across West Africa.
Return to Benin
Get ready for a full-day journey back to Benin today. We'll travel from Bassar to Dassa Zoume, soaking up the stunning West African landscapes outside our window and making stops along the way. Once in Dassa Zoume, visit the famous “Grotto of Our Lady of Arigbo” church, where the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared. Pope John Paul II also once paid it a visit and prayed here. Today, the church attracts thousands of Catholic pilgrims from across West Africa.
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Hotel Jeco, Dassa Zoume
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Hotel Jeco, Dassa Zoume
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11
High Priests & Voodoo Shrines
Dassa Zoume, once the capital of an ancient kingdom in 1385, is known for its 41 hills, a number that carries spiritual significance in Vodun tradition. Begin today’s adventure with a hike up Dassa Hill, exploring its sacred altars and voodoo shrines. Meet the High Priest and learn about the rituals and ceremonies held here. After your hike, continue to Abomey, the former seat of the Dahomey Kingdom, where you’ll take in a Gelede Masked Dance, a performance that honors the women of the community. It features 20-25 dancers and drummers from local Yoruba and Fon communities, wearing brightly colored masks, singing songs that retrace the history and myths of their ancestors.
High Priests & Voodoo Shrines
Dassa Zoume, once the capital of an ancient kingdom in 1385, is known for its 41 hills, a number that carries spiritual significance in Vodun tradition. Begin today’s adventure with a hike up Dassa Hill, exploring its sacred altars and voodoo shrines. Meet the High Priest and learn about the rituals and ceremonies held here. After your hike, continue to Abomey, the former seat of the Dahomey Kingdom, where you’ll take in a Gelede Masked Dance, a performance that honors the women of the community. It features 20-25 dancers and drummers from local Yoruba and Fon communities, wearing brightly colored masks, singing songs that retrace the history and myths of their ancestors.
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Hotel Tennessee or similar, Bohica
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Hotel Tennessee or similar, Bohica
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12
Royal Mysteries of Abomey
Embark on an expert-led tour of Abomey's Royal Palace Museum this morning. Discover the compelling history of the Dahomey Kings as you study their unique symbols and admire intricate bas-reliefs that depict their reign, a time marked by war and a complex legacy with slavery. Wander through rooms filled with thrones, altars, and statues from this ancient kingdom, and gaze upon the haunting remains of the burial pit where the kings’ wives were once entombed alive. We'll also see the House of Pearls, a temple built by King Glele. Return to Cotonou for a relaxed evening and a final farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.
Royal Mysteries of Abomey
Embark on an expert-led tour of Abomey's Royal Palace Museum this morning. Discover the compelling history of the Dahomey Kings as you study their unique symbols and admire intricate bas-reliefs that depict their reign, a time marked by war and a complex legacy with slavery. Wander through rooms filled with thrones, altars, and statues from this ancient kingdom, and gaze upon the haunting remains of the burial pit where the kings’ wives were once entombed alive. We'll also see the House of Pearls, a temple built by King Glele. Return to Cotonou for a relaxed evening and a final farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Golden Tulip le Diplomat Hotel or similar, Cotonou
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13
Farewell
After nearly a week of exploring Benin and Togo, hopping from floating villages to voodoo shrines and grand palaces, it’s time to bid farewell to this fascinating region and the friends you’ve made along the way. A private transfer will take you to Cotonou’s International airport for your return flight.
Farewell
After nearly a week of exploring Benin and Togo, hopping from floating villages to voodoo shrines and grand palaces, it’s time to bid farewell to this fascinating region and the friends you’ve made along the way. A private transfer will take you to Cotonou’s International airport for your return flight.
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Breakfast
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Breakfast
What is included?
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Accommodations throughout the trip.
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Most meals (as described in the itinerary).
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Transportation (as described in the itinerary), including airport transfers.
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Admission/entry to activities (as described in the itinerary).
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AO Trip Leader throughout the trip.
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Special access to AO places and experiences (as described in the itinerary).
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All gratuities (not including AO Trip Leader).
What is not included?
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Flights to and from destination.
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Pre-/Post-trip accommodations.
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Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
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Visas and passport fees.
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Meals outside of those described (including most alcoholic beverages).
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AO Trip Leader tip.
Additional info
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $920 USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $920 USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Activity level
This tour has a moderate activity level. Consider four to six miles of walking each day, with lots of time spent moving around and on your feet. You should be comfortable walking on both flat and uneven ground, as well as stairs.
Activity level
This tour has a moderate activity level. Consider four to six miles of walking each day, with lots of time spent moving around and on your feet. You should be comfortable walking on both flat and uneven ground, as well as stairs.
Arrival & Departure
Cotonou International Airport (COO) connects to a range of flight hubs. The best flight connections are offered by Air Cote d'Ivoire and Ethiopian Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Arrival & Departure
Cotonou International Airport (COO) connects to a range of flight hubs. The best flight connections are offered by Air Cote d'Ivoire and Ethiopian Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Have more questions?
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip or our general FAQs.
Any questions about this trip? Don't hesitate to reach out
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Call us at +1 833-919-9154
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Send us a
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Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about NEW - Rhythms & Rituals: West Africa's Spiritual Traditions? We're here to help!
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Call us at +1 833-919-9154
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Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about NEW - Rhythms & Rituals: West Africa's Spiritual Traditions? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.