West Africa successfully blends a wide range of cultures and geography. Due
to recent conflicts and an undeveloped infrastructure this region does not yet
receive large amounts of tourism. Some countries are actively seeking to increase
tourism. Drum music has a large tradition in West Africa. The most popular are the
Djembe, Bougarabou, and the Tama talking drum. The people of this region are all
quite friendly and unhurried, although greeting customs vary. Christianity is the
leading religion in the coastal and western areas. Islam prevails in the North and
interior portions. Indigenous religions are scattered throughout both areas. Activities
throughout this region include safaris, bird watching, shopping for drums and woodcarvings,
and a variety of outdoor activities.
The countries in West Africa include Benin,
Burkina Faso,
Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Cape Verde,
the Gambia,
Ghana, Guinea-Bissau,
Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra
Leone, and Togo.
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TRAVEL TO BURKINA FASO
Burkina Faso was
formerly called Upper Volta. Burkina does not have a large tourism industry; however it
is considered one of the safest and friendliest countries in Africa. Burkina is a great
place to learn African Drumming. The capital, Ouagadougou, contains
several interesting museums including the Ethnography Museum, the National Museum, and
the Snake Museum. Make sure to catch the Moro-Naba ceremony at the Moro-Naba
Palace. There are also several interesting craft markets.
TRAVEL TO CAMEROON
Cameroon is called
'Africa in miniature' due to its wide variety of terrain, climate, and culture. Cameroon's
terrain has vast deserts, savannahs, tropical rainforests, beautiful beaches, and the tallest
mountain in Western Africa. Cameroon tourist infrastructure is not yet developed. See gorillas
in Lobeke Natural Park. Hike Mt. Cameroon. Visit a rubber or cocoa plantation.
Cities worth visiting include Yaounde (the capital), Limbe
(a small picturesque town with dazzling beaches), and Rhumsiki (a unique
village whose customs have barely changed in centuries).
TRAVEL TO THE GAMBIA
The Gambia is a
popular with ecotourists. It is a birdwatchers paradise. Visit Abuko National
Reserve to experience local wildlife. The Bao Bolon Wetland Reserve
is a world class bird watching location. Also visit the Katchikali Crocodile Pool
where you will have the chance to pet a crocodile. Shopping includes wood carvings, masks,
and African drums. Tailor made custom clothes can be made rather inexpensively. Due to
the poverty, people are constantly looking for ways to earn money. Do not be surprised
when locals expect money for picture taking, directions, or any number of other services.
Police may expect bribes.
TRAVEL TO GHANA
Ghana has considerable
natural resources. It is a very friendly country, ideal for new travelers to Africa. Eco
tourists should visit the Kakum National Park whose virgin rainforest
contains the famous canopy walk. Nearby is Monkey Forest Resort. The
Cape Coast castle and Fort St. Jago are reminders of
Ghana's European history, and are UNESCO world heritage sites. The Owabi Forest
Reserve and Bird Sanctuary is an excellent location for birdwatchers. In
Accra be sure to visit the National Museum, Independence Square,
Independence Arch, and the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier. Also visit the Center
for National Culture and the Makola market for shopping. A unique shopping
experience can be found at the Osu Night Market which is illuminated
by candles and lanterns. Try a safari at the Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary,
Bia National Forest, Bui National Park, or Mole
Game Reserve. Visit some of the sparkling white beaches available including the
Labadi Pleasure Beach, the Kokrobite Beach, Coco
Beach Resort, and Dixcove.
TRAVEL TO LIBERIA
Liberia continues to
remain extremely dangerous. Economic conditions are extremely severe. All travel is
strongly discouraged at this time.
