Our expert local tour guides will meet you upon your arrival at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra, situated on the beautiful gold coast of Western Africa. You will be transferred to your Accra hotel. Once we have checked you in, our experienced guide will offer you Akwaaba (welcome) and brief you on all aspects of your trip. You can enjoy your evening meal at the hotel restaurant while acclimating yourself to West Africa.

JAMESTOWN is an old community in Accra with many historical structures that predate the colonial era. The locals are committed to conserving these buildings and have made significant efforts to maintain them; our time here gives us an excellent idea of what it was like during the colonial era. The 30-meter-high lighthouse built by the British in 1871 and the attractive, colorful fishing boats on the beach are also excellent. We continue to Fort James, which the British built as a trading post in 1673 before it joined the Dutch Fort Crêvecœur and the Danish Fort Christiansborg. Fort James gave its name to the Jamestown neighborhood in Accra. These areas give us a perfect picture of old Accra, distinguishing between British and Dutch. Of interest are the Brazilian stone houses, built by free enslaved Africans who reside in Brazil; they made their way back to Africa after the slave trade was abolished, and their descendants have now integrated with the locals of James Town.

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BLACK STAR GATE houses the independence monument in Independence Square, the main ceremony grounds and where the enclosed flame of African liberation is.    Commissioned by the first prime minister and president of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah, to honor the visit of Queen Elizabeth II, it was constructed in 1961, and so far, it has been used for all major national public gatherings and national festivals, in addition to the most important event which is the parade for Ghana’s Independence Day.

Due to its immense size, the square is one of the biggest in the world. It boasts the Independence Arch, the Black Star Monument, also known as the Black Star Gate, and the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier, which faces the Independence Arch and symbolizes the Ghanaian heroes who lost their lives fighting for Ghana’s independence,

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Located in the heart of Accra stands a monument that embodies the soul of a nation and the spirit of one of its most outstanding leaders. THE KWAME NKRUMAH MEMORIAL PARK MAUSOLEUM is more than just a memorial; it's a testament to the resilience, ambition, and enduring legacy of a man who dared to dream of an independent Ghana. The final resting place of Ghana's founder is a beautiful garden.  An adjoining museum contains photos, artifacts, and an insight into this incredible man's life. The center was designed by a Ghanaian architect and built using Italian marble.

The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum remind us of Nkrumah's indomitable spirit, relentless pursuit of independence, and unwavering belief in pan-African unity. It's a place of reflection, a symbol of national pride, and a beacon of Ghana's revolutionary spirit.

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The Accra Regional Center for Culture, “The Arts Center,” is better known as the NATIONAL CULTURAL CENTER in Accra, Ghana. This is where you will find the tourist heaven of Ghana virtually. It has everything from woven Kente cloth to wooden sculptures, beadwork, leather bags, earrings, other fashion accessories, the latest in African Attire fashion, and good-quality handicrafts from all over Ghana.

A warren of stalls selling arts and crafts. There are arts and crafts bazaars and a traditional textile market with souvenirs crafted in clay, wood, leather, and metal. There is also an indoor market with stalls having footwear, tee shirts, and other souvenirs.

An art gallery sells traditional handicrafts from all over Ghana at reasonable prices. There is a never-ending array of goods in numerous stalls that may not even be able to shop.

NKINKYIM MUSEUM
Kwame Akoto Bamfo, owner and executive director of the museum, will tell you, “The name of the museum is inspired by Africa’s history, which is filled with many twists and turns, and our installations capture that history through creativity,”

The Nkyinkyim Museum is an evolving museum that seamlessly combines African art, history, and performance with intangible cultural heritage such as drumming, dancing, traditional rites, and food.

The museum experience is designed to guide visitors towards healing and restorative justice, healing from the legacies of African enslavement and colonialism. It has many beautifully and creatively sculpted pieces of art. These works of art take you on a journey of African stories and folklore. A tour of the museum’s workshop helps tourists appreciate the dedication, love, and hard work the passionate artists put into making the masterpieces of art on display at the museum.

Nkyinkyim is primarily an outdoor museum, and it is advisable to prepare for being outdoors to get the best possible experience. Journeys may take a minimum of 90 minutes.  Perhaps the most significant aspect of the Nkyinkyim experience is the homage that Bamfo pays to the memory of Africans enslaved during the transatlantic slave trade. With an array of eerily haunting life-sized heads, about 1,500 of them sculpted from concrete and another 3,000 made with terracotta, Bamfo captures expressions of shock, pain, fear, desperation, and despair that tell the story of enslaved Africans.  Tourists are usually advised to enter this museum section with bare feet as a sign of respect for the ancestors and to connect with the spirits of the land.”

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THE DUBOIS CENTER in Accra is the home of William Edward Burghardt DuBois, American scholar, and author, who spent the last two years of his life in Ghana, having been invited to return to Africa by Kwame Nkrumah to work on the Encyclopedia Africana. Though the house is small, it is wonderfully laid out, with a pleasant breeze that’s difficult to find in Accra. Outside, there’s a spacious garden, along with his mausoleum. The remains of his wife, whose wish was to be cremated, are found in a small box next to his grave
DuBois was born in Massachusetts but studied and worked in many places worldwide, including Berlin, Philadelphia, and Wilberforce, Ohio. He was the first black graduate of Harvard University and one of the founding members of the NAACP. A leading figure in the Pan-Africanism movement, he organized conferences and argued for the independence of African states from colonialism. In 1903, The Souls of Black Folk, was a collection of essays considered among the most essential works in African American history.

Just as had happened to Marcus Garvey, DuBois became a target of the FBI and the McCarthy-era hunt against communism. He was put on trial for being the chairman of the anti-nuclear weapon Peace Information Center, which the government claimed to be a foreign plot. The trial was a farce and dismissed before the jury could reach a verdict. But the constant attacks against his character and reputation had taken a toll, so one of America’s greatest minds accepted an invitation to Ghana, becoming a citizen of the new country at the age of 93. He would die two years later.

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Traditionally, beads have been considered a status symbol representing wealth and financial success. Royalty has been used to portray their wealth. Dancers also use them as accessories in traditional gatherings. Flag-bearers of the conventional Asafo militia of the Fante people wear beads made of cowries across their chests during traditional parades at festivals..

At TK BEADS, skilled artisans craft exquisite traditional beads using ancient techniques, providing guided tours to demonstrate the intricate process. Beads are culturally revered as symbols of wealth and beauty in Ghana, prominently featured in traditional durbars and festivals. Following the demonstration, exploring a diverse range of beads for purchase adds an enjoyable touch to the experience.

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ABURI CRAFT MARKET is a vibrant shopping destination located in Aburi, Ghana.This popular spot is a treasure trove of unique crafts and local artwork, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and souvenir hunters.
Nestled in the heart of Aburi, Aburi Crafts Village offers a delightful shopping experience in a charming and picturesque setting. With its colorful storefronts and bustling atmosphere, it’s easy to get lost in the excitement of exploring the various stalls and shops that line the village streets. 

Whether you’re searching for intricately handcrafted jewelry, beautifully woven textiles, or eye-catching sculptures, Aburi Crafts Village has it all. The talented artisans display their skills and creativity through their unique creations, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ghana. As you wander through the village, you’ll have the chance to interact with the friendly locals, who are always ready to share stories about their crafts and offer helpful recommendations. The vibrant energy of the village is contagious, and you’ll find yourself immersed in Ghana's vibrant culture and traditions

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ABURI CRAFT MARKET is a vibrant shopping destination located in Aburi,Ghana. 

This popular spot is a treasure trove of unique crafts and local artwork, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and souvenir hunters.

Nestled in the heart of Aburi, Aburi Crafts Village offers a delightful shopping experience in a charming and picturesque setting. With its colorful storefronts and bustling atmosphere, it’s easy to get lost in the excitement of exploring the various stalls and shops that line the village streets. 

Whether you’re searching for intricately handcrafted jewelry, beautifully woven textiles, or eye-catching sculptures, Aburi Crafts Village has it all. The talented artisans display their skills and creativity through their unique creations, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Ghana. As you wander through the village, you’ll have the chance to interact with the friendly locals, who are always ready to share stories about their crafts and offer helpful recommendations. The vibrant energy of the village is contagious, and you’ll find yourself immersed in Ghana's vibrant culture and traditions

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Depart for Kumasi, Ghana's "second city," which is the ancestral land and contemporary residence of the Ashanti people. It also served as the former capital of the Ashanti kingdom. Kumasi remains central to Ashanti culture, housing the Manhyia Palace and West Africa's largest cultural center.  The vibrant city provides a diverse range of experiences that appeal to everyone – from nature enthusiasts and history buffs to art aficionados and residents who appreciate the everyday aspects of life!

The Manhyia Palace is the seat of the Asantehene, the Monarch of the Ashanti Kingdom, as well as his official residence. Located in Kumasi, the capital of Ashanti Region. The King receives thousands of visitors around the world each year through private appointments and traditional events. Millions of tourists also visits the Manhyia Palace Museum which served as the private residence of past Kings until it was rehabilitated into a museum in 1995. 

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Kejetia Market is reported to be the largest outdoor market in West Africa. Visiting here provides a wonderful opportunity to experience everyday life for the people in this great city where the locals shop.  Ideal for fabric shopping and Shea butters, the market is a labyrinth of stalls nestled closely together, and a hive of activity. Some stallholders sleep here in the evenings as trade rarely stops.

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Adanwomasie, the birthplace of Ghana's rich colorful Kente Cloth, produces some of Ghana's finest Kente cloth.  Many designs of cloth are woven here, and some are exclusive only to this region. Quality time is dedicated here in this community, interacting with the locals whose families have been weaving kente for generations playing an important role in the history of this beautiful cloth. Learn about the history behind the many designs and see skilled weavers outside their homes still using traditional looms that have not changed in design for centuries. Former US President Bill Clinton has had a design named after him called the "Clinton Kente" as Ghanaians were so impressed with the respect, he showed our nation during his state visit to Ghana when he was in office. An ideal time to purchase quality kente cloth at very low prices. 

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The ancient village of Ntunso is where Adinkra cloth and symbols originate. These traditional symbols all have meanings and are carved from calabash shells. The Adinkra Symbols are then printed onto traditional cloth using natural dyes made from the bark of certain local trees. Adinkra cloth has been adorned by the Asante's for more than 4 centuries and pre-dates kente cloth. Even today most Ashanti’s will wear adinkra cloth for funerals, festivals, and other important occasions.

ASSIN MANSO, located in the central region of Ghana, served as a major slave market and transit point during the height of the transatlantic slave trade. It was here that captured Africans were held, awaiting their perilous journey to the Americas. The Assin Manso Slave River, flowing gently through this somber landscape, once witnessed the agony and despair of countless souls torn from their homes.   One of the most poignant aspects of the Assin Manso experience is the "Last Bath" ritual. This ritual, performed by the African descendants of those who were once enslaved, is a solemn commemoration of the final moments of these individuals on African soil. Visitors to Assin Manso are invited to take part in this emotional ceremony.

Assin Manso Slave River is a place where history comes alive, where the past becomes palpable. It's not a typical tourist destination, but rather a sacred site that serves as a poignant reminder of the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade. Visiting Assin Manso is not just about sightseeing; it is a pilgrimage, a journey of remembrance and reflection.

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St. George Castle, also known as ELMINA CASTLE, is located in Central Region of Ghana, about a 3.5 hour drive along the coast from Accra. It is the oldest European structure in sub-Saharan Africa. Construction of Elmina castle was started by the Portuguese in 1482 and was originally completed in 1486. Later colonized by the Dutch in 1637, it was during this time that Elmina attained its highest status.

Upon visiting, you will experience the physical history of the slave trade, the impact of which is still felt beyond the shores of Africa today. Most visitors to Ghana tour Elmina Castle, because of its history as a major trans-Atlantic slave hub. Originally, Elmina Castle was not built for the purpose of holding and trading slaves, but instead as a trading post for gold and other African goods. It is from this trade that the name "Elmina" was derived from the Portuguese name for "Da Costa de el Mina de Ouro" (The Coast of Gold Mines).

CAPE COAST CASTLE stands as one of approximately forty 'slave castles' constructed by European traders along the West African coast. These castles were utilized to confine enslaved Africans before their transportation to the Americas or the Caribbean. The initial timber structure on the premises was built in 1653 by the Swedish Africa Company, known as Carolusborg, and later reconstructed in stone. In April 1663, the Danes captured the 'Swedish Gold Coast', merging it into the 'Danish Gold Coast'. Subsequently, in 1664, it was seized by the British. Originally serving as a trading hub for timber and gold, the castle was later repurposed for the transatlantic slave trade. In the late 18th century, the castle was reconstructed and functioned as the administrative center of the British Gold Coast in 1844.

Following Ghana's independence in 1957, the site was entrusted to the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board and underwent restoration for public visitation in the 1990s. Cape Coast castle which has been designated as a world heritage site by UNESCO.This castle, known for its dark past involving the slave trade, offers a poignant glimpse into its historical importance. Quality time will be spent in the afternoon on an emotional journey to explore the solemn and humid dungeons where enslaved individuals endured weeks of suffering before walking through the infamous “Door of no return”.

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OGUAA FETU AFAHYE FESTIVAL

Take part and celebrate one of its most significant festivals, the Oguaa Fetu Afahye. This festival commemorates the purification that saved the land from a deadly disease outbreak that killed many people. The colorful event includes a procession of chiefs, drumming, dancing, and firing of musketry.many decades and was part of the colonial effort to suppress local cultural practices.

The Fetu Afahye is a significant festival in Cape Coast that the colonial administration put a stop to. The ban lasted fr many decades

The festival was derogatorily referred to as 'Black Christmas.' However, the then paramount chief disagreed with this view, and his stance paved the way for the festival's revival. Between 1948 and 1996, the Oguaa resurrected the festival after a long and challenging struggle led by the Oguaa. Today, the festival plays a crucial role in the Oguaa Traditional Area, marking the farming seasons and is known as 'Afehyia,' meaning a cycle of seasons.

ELMINA CITY & MARKET TOUR

Explore the 700-year-old Elmina Township, a living museum that offers a understanding of its economic, political, historical, and cultural significance. Discover the archaeological site of old Elmina, the Mpoben Fish Market, the 19th-century Merchant Houses where prosperous Dutch Merchants lived, the Dutch Cemetery with imposing Mausoleum and grave markers tell the stories of European and African celebrities, and the cannons of redoubts that fortified the town from external attacks. This city's history blends Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Immerse yourself in the present Elmina community to experience the richness and depth of its history.

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Kakum National Park. A truly beautiful, tropical guinea rain forest with a canopy walkway that consists of seven bridges, attached to seven emerging trees, 40 meters above the rain forest floor.  The views from the tree platforms between the bridges are outstanding and stretch for miles across this breathtaking rain forest.  This national park protects the original habitat that was found in this location and was the local's home and a major source of food. The walkway We are sure you would agree that this is an exciting excursion never to be forgotten. We will return to the park headquarters where we will find an excellent information center that offers a very informative overview of the park's flora and fauna. Over 40 different mammal species have been recorded within the park, which includes forest elephants, leopards, and 6 primate species to mention just a few.

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YOUR NAMING CEREMON
Pay a visit to the Eku-Na Nsona Royal Family of Iture in Elmina  to pay a courtesy call to the chiefs, queen mothers and community elders. As tradition dictates, that a gift of libation be brought  and presented to the King.  The Elders and Chiefs will begin with the pouring of libation to officially welcome you home to the land your ancestors were forcibly taken from and where your heritage and culture live on.

Drumming and dancing are all around us as you get an in-depth feel of traditional village life here in Ghana. The time has finally arrived for you to be given your true African name in your honor. Chiefs and elders of the community officially welcome you as they lead you through the ceremony which has been performed by your ancestors throughout history. You will finally have the chance to adopt your own African name based on the day of the week you were born or numeric order of your siblings. This would have been your actual name if you were born in Ghana and has an emotional attachment to many when they receive them.

A visit to the small local Village of Simiw to spend some time with the villagers and bless them with our donations is a great way to end your travel experience.

School supplies
General school supplies are always needed – they include pencils and pencil sharpeners, rulers, erasers, solar calculators, and chalk. Other popular supplies include English–Swahili dictionaries, world maps, and even age-appropriate storybooks in English with photos of children who look like them.

First aid and health
Bandages/plasters, antibiotic ointment, toothbrushes and tubes of toothpaste, dental floss, soap, hand sanitizer, and feminine care products (like sanitary napkins) will be used and appreciated.

Clothing
New or gently used children’s and adult clothing is always well received.  Undergarments are always needed.

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GHANAIAN COOKING CLASS

The way a group of people prepares their meals offers invaluable insights into their culture. From the ingredients and cooking methods to the energy invested in nourishing themselves, culinary practices reflect beliefs, traditions, and habits. Exploring and experimenting with local traditional foods not only provides a delicious experience but also offers an education in the culture itself.

Traditional Ghanaian food includes a variety of food crops such as corn, beans, millet, plantains, and cassava. Different ethnic groups use these ingredients creatively to make delicious dishes.  Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of local cuisine with the guidance of your native host. Explore traditional cooking methods and ingredients while delving into the rich cultural heritage of the region. During this culinary experience, you will have the opportunity to visit a bustling local market, handpick fresh ingredients, and master the art of preparing two signature dishes, accompanied by a selection of local snacks.

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DRUMMING

Experience African drumming and dancing at its finest in an outdoor classroom on the beach with the most talented drumming and dancing troupe in Cape Coast. This workshop combines powerful rhythms and high-energy dances of Ghana to express Ghanaian culture in its purest form.

You will learn various West African songs, their history and dances, including a traditional song and dance that is performed at funerals and weddings. You’ll also learn how villages use ‘talking drums’ to communicate within the village and between different villages—a technique that is still in use today. This class is engaging and FUN!

Journey from Cape Coast to Accra.

Evening Departures to the States if available

We say our final farewells as we
Transfer to Accra International Airport for Departure.