Resting on the coast at the westernmost tip of West Africa’s bulge, Senegal is best known for its dramatic natural landscapes of scenic desert, lush tropical forest, and pristine white-sand beaches. While those seeking urban distractions typically head for the capital city of Dakar, with its colourful markets and vibrant live music scene; travellers eager to relax can make their way to the nearby Goree Island or the laidback beaches of Yoff and N'Gor. When the novelty of the beach wears off, there are plenty of inland nature reserves, the lovely Casamance River, and the bright pink Lake Retba to explore. Other must-see sights include: the Fathala Game Reserve, inhabited by some of Africa’s most exotic wildlife; and the Old Town area of the historical city of Saint-Louis, filled to the brim with exquisite French Colonial architecture.
Situated on the Cape Verde Peninsula, the Atlantic port city of Dakar serves as the capital of Senegal. Originally put on the map as a tourist hotspot for the renowned Dakar Rally, Dakar has become a sprawling city that offers visitors a unique blend of modern living combined with historic traditions. The city features a vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, a variety of museums, sacred mosques, and a traditional medina quarter. Visitors can view the soaring minarets of the Grande Mosque, experience authentic Senegalese hospitality and spend their days browsing the lively markets and enjoying sunset drinks overlooking the crashing waves.
Ghana is often referred to as “Africa for beginners” and for good reason. It is a friendly and largely safe country with locals who typically speak excellent English and are usually eager to help first time foreigners find their feet on African soil. This spectacularly scenic nation boasts an exquisite tropical coastline and some exceptional national parks providing a haven for some unusual flora and fauna. The capital, Accra is a thriving metropolis complete with bustling markets, luxury hotels and a lively nightlife scene. Pack your itinerary with visits to gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, ancient forts, historical castles, and quaint fishing villages. Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach vacation or are keen to immerse yourself in the fascinating ancient cultures of this nation’s diverse ethnic groups, Ghana offers a unique and compelling African experience.
Situated on Ghana's southern coast, Accra is the bustling capital of the country, characterised by the Ghanian slang word ‘vim’ - ‘energy and industriousness’. The city offers an intriguing combination of city and village life. Affluent neighbourhoods complete with upmarket restaurants, glitzy shopping malls, and western fast food chains are interspersed with the Ghanian street culture that engulfs much of the rest of the country. While the city’s vibrant atmosphere and daily life is undoubtedly its primary drawcard, visitors should also take the time to visit Osu Castle; Nkrumah Memorial Park; the raucous Labadi Beach; and the hidden alleys, old stone houses, and wonderful cliff-top harbour vistas of Jamestown. The National Museum is also certainly worth a visit and provides great insight into Ghana’s fascinating history and culture from prehistory to the present.
Located in Southern Ghana's Ashanti Region, Kumasi is renowned for its rich heritage and is an important Ashanti cultural centre. This ancient capital of the Ashanti Kingdom features a fascinating blend of modern and historical treasures. Visitors can look forward to many interesting sites and enjoy a host of wonderful activities including the fascinating open-air Kejetia Market, offering locally made goods; the Jubilee Museum, which displays ceremonial garments and jewellery of the 20th-century Ashanti King; and learning more about Ashanti traditions at the popular National Cultural Centre.
Located along the south coast of Ghana, the fishing port of Elmina is best-known for its beautiful beaches and serves as the capital of the region. It is also known as a historical slave trading port and offers visitors a glimpse into the tragic history of the slave trade. Visitors can learn more about the area's past by visiting a number of fascinating sites including: the 17th-century Fort St. Jago, the Elmina Java Museum, the Dutch Cemetery and Elmina Castle, built by the Portuguese in 1482, it is the oldest European building in existence south of the Sahara.
