Like all African capitals, Lomé is a very lively city. We will occupy our accommodation at the Hotel Robinson on the beautiful beaches of the capital.

This day will take us to the city where animism and Christianity coexist. After a canoe ride on the Togo River, we will move to Agbodranfo, witness to the village of the slave trade. Excursion to the slave house and visit to the artists of the capital. We will pass through the amulet market before taking a guided tour of the fishing village near our hotel.

We will cross beautiful landscapes to Kpalime. Excursion in the Agou mountains, walk through troglodyte villages dotted with exchanges with the populations. We will end the day with an excursion to the Kpime waterfall. Accommodation at the hotel Chez Fanni.

On the way north, we will stop in Atakpamé. We will also take a trip to the forest to appreciate the beauty of nature. We will be in contact with local ethnic groups such as the Kotokoli and Losso. Night at the hotel Sahel.

This part is culturally rich. We will be in contact with the Kabyès, the oldest ethnic group in the country. Then we will take an excursion to the Tamberma country, famous for its round huts called Tatas. Accommodation at the hotel Concorde.

After two days, we will begin our return to the capital, Lomé, through Kpalimé.

Last tour of the city before departure for the airport.

Arrival in Cotonou. Airport pickup and transfer to Hotel du Lac.

We begin our immersion into West Africa by visiting the bustling Dantokpa Market, one of the largest in the region, including the impressive fetish market. A short 30-minute canoe ride will take us to Ganvie, one of Benin’s top attractions. This stilt village was founded by the Tofinu people as they fled from slave traders. We will explore their floating homes and learn about their unique way of life. Return to Hotel du Lac for overnight stay.

A diverse day of cultural and ethnic exploration. We will visit Benin’s administrative capital, Porto Novo, known for its stunning architectural heritage: churches, mosques, Voodoo temples, French colonial buildings, and the unique Afro-Brazilian style—a blend of Yoruba culture and Portuguese influence.

We then travel north to meet the Holi people, an animist group where older women display intricate full-body tattoos. Their impressive bamboo architecture and facial scarifications symbolize tribal identity and aesthetic beauty. Overnight at Hotel TG in Cové or Morada Lodge.

We continue westward and, if possible, visit the King of Cové, an influential figure in the region. Then, we will meet the Fulani, one of Africa’s last nomadic tribes. Their lifestyle, distinctive facial decorations, and non-mud housing reflect their adaptability. The Fulani are known for their elegance, tall stature, and elaborate attire. Overnight at Auberge d’Abomey or similar.

We visit Abomey, the former capital of the Dahomey Kingdom, which gave Benin its French-era name. The Royal Palaces and Museums, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase unique relics such as parasols, a throne made of human skulls, and detailed bas-relief decorations. We continue north to Dassa, where we will stay overnight at Hotel Jeco or Hotel El Dorado.

We head further north to visit one of Benin’s most fascinating ethnic groups, the Taneka, known for their distinct customs and traditional attire. Overnight at Motel Djougou.

Another essential ethnic group, the Somba, are renowned for their “tata” houses, small fortress-like structures. Overnight at Tata Koubetti in Boukombé.

We cross into Togo to explore the Kutammaku region, the homeland of the Batammariba people, whose adobe tower houses (takienta) have become an emblem of the country. Their architecture and spiritual beliefs are deeply connected to nature. These two-story granary structures are UNESCO World Heritage-listed. Overnight at Hotel Doucele in Kara.

We begin the long journey south, stopping in Sokodé, a deep cultural heartland of Togo. We continue towards Atakpamé, engaging with Kotokoli and Loss ethnic groups and exploring nature trails. Overnight at Chez Fanni in Kpalimé.

We arrive in Lomé, Togo’s capital, and visit the Grand Marché, the Fetish Market, Independence Monument, and other landmarks. Overnight at Robinson Plage.

We re-enter Benin and head to Lake Ahémé, one of the highlights of the trip. Here, we will experience Voodoo—far from the Hollywood myths of dolls and zombies. Voodoo is a structured religion, with supernatural beliefs, deities, rituals, and dance ceremonies. Every element of nature is considered to have a spirit. We will visit the Temple of Skulls, dedicated to Shango, the Yoruba god of justice and weather. Overnight at Hotel Chez Theo, an idyllic spot with a swimming pool and kayaking activities on the lake.

A relaxing day at the beach, combined with nature exploration. We will take a canoe trip through the Mono River delta to observe mangroves and birdlife. Overnight at Auberge de Grand Popo.

In this emotionally profound stage of the journey, we explore Benin’s slave trade history.
• Walk through the colonial district with Afro-Brazilian mansions.
• Follow the “Slave Route”, a 4-km path from the auction square to the “Point of No Return”, where over two million enslaved people were sent to the Americas.
• Visit the Black Box, a chamber where captives were held in darkness before departure.

Our meaningful journey concludes where another began for many—a place filled with history and symbolism. Transfer to Cotonou for overnight at Hotel du Lac.

A flexible final day. Depending on our schedule, we can explore African art exhibitions, take a stroll, or do some last-minute shopping before transferring to the airport.