Journey to West Africa: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Are you dreaming of exploring West Africa but unsure where to begin? Let me help you get started with some valuable tips and recommendations for your journey!

Budget & Duration: To get the most out of your experience, I recommend a travel budget of at least $5,000 and a minimum of 10 days abroad. This will give you the perfect opportunity to get a taste of the local culture and possibly hop between cities or countries during your trip.

I traveled to Ghana with my mom for ten days, and we had an unforgettable time! We flew with Delta Airlines, which offered a direct roundtrip from New York to Accra for under $1,000.

Where to Stay: During our stay in Accra, we booked a room at the Mahogany Lodge Hotel in the Cantonments. It’s located just a few blocks from the military base and only about a 20-minute drive from the airport, making it both safe and convenient. If you're looking for a warm, welcoming escape with a personal touch, Mahogany Lodge is the perfect choice. While the rooms may not boast the opulence of the Marriott or Kempinski Hotel, what it lacks in luxury, it more than makes up for in charm, comfort, and exceptional value. The friendly, attentive staff go above and beyond to make you feel at home, offering hospitality that’s second to none. Enjoy a peaceful retreat in the serene pool area and beautiful courtyard, start your day with a delicious complimentary breakfast, and unwind in a cozy atmosphere that exudes Southern-inspired warmth. At Mahogany Lodge, it's all about making your stay memorable and comfortable.

Things to See & Do: Accra is packed with exciting and cultural experiences! Here are some must-visit spots:

• Independence Square

• Accra Art Centre

• Makola Market

• James Town Lighthouse

• Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park

• W.E.B. Du Bois Center

For a taste of local food and great vibes, check out Buka Restaurant and Sandbox Beach Club. For a fun night out, join an evening pub crawl through Accra. Start at The Republic, sipping ginger shots and local spirits, then head to Kona for dancing, and wrap it up with Purple Pub for cheap, tasty eats and good music.

Pamper Yourself: If you love a luxurious spa experience like I do, treat yourself to the world-class service at the Kempinski Hotel. The hotel also houses the 1957 Art Gallery, showcasing fine art by renowned Ghanaian artists.

Day Trips & Nearby Adventures: Make sure to plan some exciting day trips to explore Ghana's rich history and natural beauty:

• Visit Kumasi in the Ashanti region, home of the Asante people, where the King greets the public every 42 days.

• Explore the haunting history of Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, key sites in the story of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

• Take a stroll through the Nkyinkyim Museum, an outdoor art museum dedicated to the legacy of slaves.

• Hike through Kakum National Park, crossing the canopy walk 40 feet above the ground and immersing yourself in nature.

• Take a flight to Tamale and stay at the Zaina Lodge, a luxury safari lodge located within Mole National Park.

Want to explore more? Togo and Ivory Coast are just a few hours' drive away, and with the proper visa documentation and vaccinations, you can easily take day trips to these neighboring countries. Lagos, Nigeria, is only a 90-minute flight away, too! Keep in mind that visa processing times vary by country, so be sure to allow enough time to submit each application, as it can be a daunting and tedious process.

For smooth travel between countries, always book trustworthy private transportation in advance, whether through a reliable travel agency or trusted websites like TripAdvisor or Viator.

Cultural Immersion: One of the most meaningful parts of our trip was getting to know the locals. We took a banku and jollof rice cooking class with Auntie Irene and Pastor George, where we learned to prepare traditional Ghanaian dishes.

Travel Tips:

• Be mindful of the weather! Avoid traveling during the rainy season.

• If you’re visiting during peak seasons like Detty December, when the holidays bring high demand, expect to pay more. Traveling during the off-season offers lower rates for hotels and Ubers and fewer crowds.

• Plan ahead to make the most of your trip and explore all that West Africa has to offer!

In conclusion, with a little preparation, West Africa can be an amazing travel destination. If you need help planning your dream African adventure, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’d love to help you craft the trip of a lifetime.