We’re pleased to present this comprehensive tour of Ghana, Togo, and Benin. This tour is a return to the West African region for Journeys International and offers a new approach to exploring these three must-see destinations. We will also plan to delve into voodoo culture by attending the Voodoo Festival in Ouidah. Back by popular demand and the Journeys staff’s affinity for the region, we look forward to sharing the incredible cultures of West Africa with you on this trip of a lifetime!
In this part of the world, voodoo remains an integral part of everyday life. On the pristine shores of Anomabo Beach, meet practitioners of this misunderstood religion and talented local artisans, and discover stately former palaces. Engage in renowned art forms, thriving cultural traditions, flamboyantly colorful festivals, mask dances, and dazzling ethnic mosaics that are the golden gems of tribal West Africa. This fantastic cultural odyssey takes you to the remote reaches of Ghana, Togo, and Benin to discover lost tribal worlds guided by ancient spirits. On this journey, you will also witness the Egun Mask Dances of the Yoruba villages of southern Benin. Along the way, you will meet unforgettable people like the Taberma, whose fairytale-like clay castles are spectacular examples of uniquely African architecture. Finish your excursion on the coast, in the heart of voodoo country, visiting practitioners, watching trance dances, and learning about the incredible power that voodoo spirits still hold over people.
About your expert lecturer/guide…Mr. Mohamed Halouani
A Tunisian native, Mohamed transformed his profound passion for travel and history into a creative and diversified educational career, designing and carrying out multiple archaeological and cultural trips for various institutions such as The Detroit Institute of Art, the Textile Museum, the American Museum of Natural History, and many more organizations. After receiving his degrees in English and Spanish, Mr. Halouani completed his European Masters in linguistics and Hispanic studies at the Sorbonne University in Paris where he now resides. He has extensive knowledge of Islamic architecture and Eastern decorative elements, as well as, archaeology and history. An excellent lecturer on ethnographic and anthropological subjects, he will introduce you not only to the historical jewels of the countries but he’ll also reveal to you their culture and history and introduce you to their tribes and villages.
Journeys International partners on this trip with another company in order to bring groups together.
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Great For
Off the Beaten Path
Village Culture
Cultural History
Journeys International is excited to bring back cultural trips in West Africa. Join us for thrilling new discoveries!
On arrival in Cotonou, you will be met and transferred to the Maison Rouge (or similar) for check-in and overnight. Cotonou, once just a small fishing village and now the largest city in Benin, is thought to have been founded by King Ghezo of Dahomey in 1830 and grew as a center for the slave trade. Today it is the business center of the country and a major manufacturer of palm oil, textiles, and cement.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Maison Rouge or similar
BDay 2Cotonou / Ganvie / Ouidah (Benin)
Today we’ll cross Lake Nokweby motorized boat to Ganvie, the largest and most beautiful African village on stilts. Here, the inhabitants of the Tofinu ethnic group build their huts on teak stilts and cover the roofs with a thick layer of leaves. The village was established sometime in the 17th century by the Tofinu trying to avoid capture by the Fon warriors who were selling them to European slave traders. Ganvie has managed to preserve its traditions and canoes are a major source of transportation – life unfolds each day as the men fish, women deliver goods to the market, and children go to school and play while guiding the canoes using brightly colored poles. Continue on to Ouidah and check in to the Hotel Casa del Papa (or similar) for dinner and overnight. Ouidah is a city known for its role in the 17th-19th-century Atlantic slave trade. It became the main slave port when it was conquered by the Dahomey Army during the 18th century. Today, Ouidah features Afro-Portuguese architecture, and the laid-back attitude of the local’s blends in harmoniously with the thunder of the distant waves and the rhythm of the drums – a timeless atmosphere described by Bruce Chatwin in his book “The Viceroy of Ouidah.”
Driving time is 2 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Cada del Papa (or similar)
CDay 3Ouidah / Voodoo Festival
Every January 10th in Benin is a national celebration day in honor of the traditional voodoo religion and of the cults associated with it. In particular, many voodoo ceremonies are held in Ouidah, where thousands of adepts (highly skilled practitioners), traditional chiefs, and fetish priests gather. Ouidah became the main slave port when it was conquered by the Dahomey Army during the 18th century. On a walking tour, visit the Temple of Pythons, a sacred shrine that is home to dozens of pythons that roam freely throughout the temple. Across from the temple is the Catholic Cathedral. Next, visit the Portuguese Fort, now a museum on the history of Ouidah and the slave trade. You’ll end the tour by following the “slave road” to the beach and to the “Point of No Return” where most slaves were kept while they waited to be shipped off to the Americas – without any hope of returning. We’ll choose the best sites for you to attend today’s voodoo festival according to the festival program. Return to the hotel in Ouidah for dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Casa del Papa
DDay 4Ouidah / Abomey / Dassa
After breakfast, we’ll head out on a scenic journey to Abomey, a kingdom whose economy was based on the slave trade for a long time. A permanent state of war made it possible for the kings to capture thousands of prisoners whom they then sold as slaves. The Abomey Royal Army included a female troop famous for its boldness and aggressive fighting spirit. At the height of their power, there were up to 4,000 women in the palace harem. We’ll visit the Royal Palaceand see the bas-reliefs representing symbols of the ancient Dahomey kings decorated on its walls. Now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the museum houses items that once belonged to the ancient kings including thrones, cult altars, statues, costumes, and weapons. In the middle of the royal courtyardis atemplebuilt with a mixture of clay, gold dust, and human blood. Continue on to Dassa and transfer to the Hotel Jeko (or similar) for dinner and overnight.
Total drive time today: 200 km/ 4 hours.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Jeko (or similar)
EDay 5Dassa / Natitingou
This morning, stop at the Dankoli Fetish, an important place for the voodoo cult. A fetish is a statue or object that contains supernatural powers. Decorations such as horns, shells, feathers, metal, cloth, fur, and herbs are said to add power to the fetish. Each fetish is designed to promote health and happiness, as well as offer protection from evil spirits, among other things. Perhaps the most important and powerful of these objects is the Dankoli Fetish, a popular pilgrimage site. In fact, it is said the Dankoli Fetish wields so much strength that the voodoo followers who come here can communicate directly with the gods without the help of a priest or priestess. The devotees who have had their demands met must come back to the fetish and bring an offering to thank the gods, usually by pouring the blood of a chicken or other animal on the object which helped to grant their wishes. Continue on to the mountainous region of Djougou and enjoy a hike through the old Taneka villages. These villages are made up of round houses covered with a conical roof that is protected at the top by a terra-cotta pot. The upper part of the village is inhabited by the young initiated and fetish priests who only cover themselves with a piece of goat skin and always carry a long pipe. This ethnic group has been living here for centuries, and in fact, it is thought that the first inhabitants (of Kabye origins) moved to the mountain sometime during the 9th century. Since then, other groups including the Bariba, Gourmantche, and later, the Ashanti (who came here to escape the slave market) have made these mountains their home, forming a kind of melting-pot. Despite the fact that each group has kept its own cults and initiation rites, common religious and political institutions were defined so that they could live in harmony. They all shared a common goal – to defend themselves against their enemies. This village is a great example of how different cultures and ethnicities can live peacefully and create a new population. As you wander among the villages, along alleys bordered by a series of smooth stones, you may come across the half-naked Taneka men. This ethnic group believes that in order to “become” a man, it is necessary to combine time, patience, and a lot of blood – from sacrificed animals. It is actually a life-long process in the sense that life itself becomes a “rite of passage” and should not be considered a “before” or an “after” but rather as “following a continuous path.”
Total drive time today: 217 miles/ 6 hours
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Tata Somba or similar
FDay 6Natitingou/Defale, Togo
Depart for the Atakora Mountains and enter the land of the Somba and Tamberma people. The fortified dwellings of these groups are similar in shape to medieval castles and are one of the most beautiful examples of ancient African architecture. Their style impressed Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier so much that he compared them to “architectural sculpture.” These UNESCO World Heritage Site homes are built by hand, layer by layer, adding round mud balls and shaping them as per the plan of the house. These structures are created with a combination of strength, care, and beauty in mind. The strong, traditional beliefs of the people can be seen in the presence of big shrines – phallic in form – at the entrance of their homes. With permission granted by the inhabitants, you’ll enter their homes for a better understanding of their way of life. Their houses are actually a projection of their anthropology and cosmology. The ground floor, with its darkness, represents death and is the place of ancestors. And the second floor, open to the sky, represents life and is the place where grandmothers keep babies until they “find out” which ancestor has come back as the new life – it is only then that the baby is allowed to come down from the terrace. The family, food supplies, and stock are all kept inside the house for safety and survival in case of an attack by enemies. In fact, for centuries, these people have been seeking refuge in the Atakora Mountains to escape slave traders. Overnight at your hotel in Defale.
Driving time is 3 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel in Defale
GDay 7Defale / Tamale, Ghana
Today, the road takes you to the Ghana border and to a seldom-visited region in the savannah where the Dagomba ethnic group lives. Similar to the Taneka villages, the houses here are round clay huts with thatched roofs. The home of the village chief is easily recognizable due to its larger size and style. It has a central pole supporting the roof and the entry is framed with pieces of burnt clay. This is also where the council of the elders meets. Continuing on, you’ll meet a very large settlement of witches – all exiled from their villages because they were found guilty of causing terrible events, such as the death of a teenager, a mysterious disease, a bad harvest, etc. You’ll chat with them about their lives and about the special shrine that protects them and “cleanses” their spirit from bad will. Their warm welcome is a sharp contrast with the stories that justify their being here.
Driving time is 6 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Gariba Lodge (or similar)
HDay 8Tamale / Techiman
Drive from the savannah to the Brong Ahafo region, veering off the main road to another path, which leads to a sacred forest where the people consider Monas and Colobus monkeys as their totems. As a result, you’ll encounter the largest community of these monkey species in the world. During a walk through the forest, accompanied by the emerald green light filtered by the giant trees, you will see plenty of these sacred primates.
Driving time is 6 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Encom Hotel (or similar)
IDay 9Techiman / Kumasi
Kumasi is the historical and spiritual capital of the old Ashanti Kingdom. The Ashanti people were one of the most powerful nations in Africa until the end of the 19th century when the British annexed Ashanti Country to their Gold Coast colony. The tribute paid today to the Asantehene (King) is the best example of their past splendor and strength. With nearly one million inhabitants, Kumasi is a sprawling city with a fantastic central market, one of the biggest in Africa. Every type of Ashanti craft (leather goods, pottery, Kente cloth, etc.) can be found here, along with just about any kind of tropical fruit and vegetable. The program also includes a visit to the Ashanti Cultural Centre, where you’ll find a rich collection of local artifacts displayed in a wonderful reproduction of an Ashanti house. In the afternoon, if available, you’ll participate in a traditional Ashanti funeral, attended by mourners wearing beautiful red or black togas. We say “funeral,” but it actually means “festive celebration.” The deceased, in fact, are believed to still be with his or her family, and through this ceremony, he or she becomes an ancestor. Relatives and friends gather, socialize, and celebrate the memory of the recently departed, who will be buried in a coffin shaped to represent the deceased’s profession or hobby. The chief arrives, surrounded by his court under the shade of large umbrellas, while drums give rhythm to the dancers, whose intricate moves are highly symbolic.
Driving time is 4 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Golden Tulip Hotel (or similar)
JDay 10Kumasi
The tour of Kumasi continues with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, which contains a unique collection of gold jewels worn by the Ashanti court. There are also a few villages nearby that specialize in weaving the traditional Kente cloth, historically worn by people of high social standing, and used to make special ceremonial stools. At the end of these amazing visits, drive back to the coast.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Golden Tulip Hotel (or similar)
KDay 11Kumasi / Gold Coast / Ellmina
Start the day by driving to Ghana, formerly known as the Gold Coast and home to more than 50 ancient forts and castles reminiscent of the ancient gold, ivory, and slave trade. Cape Coast Castle was built by the Swedish in 1653 and changed hands many times from 1657 to 1664 after being conquered by the Danes, the Dutch, the Fanti (a local tribe), the Swedes, and finally the British. Today, it hosts a museum on the history of slave trade. From the top of the castle, you will enjoy a magnificent view of the town. We’ll also visit the nearby Fort William and its lighthouse before arriving at our hotel in Elmina. Dinner and overnight at Coconut Grove Resort (or similar.)
Driving time today is 4 hrs.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Coconut Grove Hotel (or similar)
LDay 12 Elmina
A few miles north of the coast, in the middle of a rainforest, we’ll explore Kakum National Park. From the park’s walking canopy, we’ll have the great opportunity to observe the forest from above. Walking between 120 to 150 feet above the ground, we’ll enjoy incredible views of the rainforest. From here, we’ll move on to Elmina Castle, the oldest European building in Africa built by the Portuguese in the 15th century. At different times the castle was used as a warehouse to trade gold, ivory, and eventually slaves. The castle we will visit today is the result of successive extension work and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The old Dutch Cemetery in Elmina goes back to 1806. Outside the castle, there is a spectacular fishing village with lots of large colorful fishing boats – every day these large wooden pirogues (wooden canoes) are steered by skilled fishermen across strong ocean waves and currents, “fighting” to earn a living. In the old town, we will see the Posuban, shrines of the ancient “Asafo companies” – warriors who used to put their offerings on these large colorful statues. The alleys in the old town have a very lively atmosphere, bringing us back to a time when Elmina was a busy colonial town. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Coconut Grove Hotel (or similar)
MDay 13 Elmina to Accra
Today’s drive takes us to Accra, Ghana’s intriguing capital city that has maintained its unique identity despite the fast-paced development currently underway. Here, you’ll visit the National Museum, established in 1957 and one of the first structures of independent Ghana. Next, explore the old quarter of James Town, inhabited by the local population known as the Ga people. Your tour ends with a visit to a workshop where they specialize in building fantasy coffins. These special hand-crafted coffins can reflect any shape: fruits, animals, fish, cars, airplanes… the only limit is your imagination! The coffins are used by the Ga people, who believe that death is not the end, and life continues into the next world just as it did on earth. These flamboyant coffin designs are now collected worldwide and shown in museums. Overnight at the La Villa Boutique Hotel (or similar.)
Driving time is 3 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
La Villa Boutique Hotel (or similar)
NDay 14Lomé / Departure
Lomé, the vibrant capital of Togo, is the only African city that was once a colony of the Germans, British, and French. It is also one of the few capitals in the world that borders with another nation. These elements have led to the development of a unique identity reflected in the lifestyle of its inhabitants and in the architecture of the town. Lomé is a crossroads for people, trade, and cultures – a cosmopolitan city, yet still small in size. We’ll begin our city tour with a visit to the central market to see the famous “Nana Benz” (African Queens of Textile) – women who control the expensive “pagne” (cloths) market. They are known as “Nana Benz” because between the 1950’s and 1980’s, they had made so much money that they were the only people who could afford Mercedes Benzes. Next, we’ll see the colonial buildings in the administrative quarter where the flavor of colonial times is still very much alive and explore the fetish market where we’ll find an eclectic assortment of all the necessary ingredients for love potions and magical concoctions. We’ll have a chance to freshen up and relax at the Le Patio Lodge (or similar) before our evening transfer to the airport for our onward flight, arriving back home the following day.
Driving time 3 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
Dates & Price
Dates
Customized for you on your dates, or join a group on the following dates:
For dates and customization options for this adventure, please contact us.
Best Time of Year to Visit
j
f
m
a
m
j
j
a
s
o
n
d
Ideal
Unpredictable
Not Recommended
Not Offered
We’re pleased to present this comprehensive tour of Ghana, Togo, and Benin. This tour is a return to the West African region for Journeys International and offers a new approach to exploring these three must-see destinations. We will also plan to delve into voodoo culture by attending the Voodoo Festival in Ouidah. Back by popular demand and the Journeys staff’s affinity for the region, we look forward to sharing the incredible cultures of West Africa with you on this trip of a lifetime!
In this part of the world, voodoo remains an integral part of everyday life. On the pristine shores of Anomabo Beach, meet practitioners of this misunderstood religion and talented local artisans, and discover stately former palaces. Engage in renowned art forms, thriving cultural traditions, flamboyantly colorful festivals, mask dances, and dazzling ethnic mosaics that are the golden gems of tribal West Africa. This fantastic cultural odyssey takes you to the remote reaches of Ghana, Togo, and Benin to discover lost tribal worlds guided by ancient spirits. On this journey, you will also witness the Egun Mask Dances of the Yoruba villages of southern Benin. Along the way, you will meet unforgettable people like the Taberma, whose fairytale-like clay castles are spectacular examples of uniquely African architecture. Finish your excursion on the coast, in the heart of voodoo country, visiting practitioners, watching trance dances, and learning about the incredible power that voodoo spirits still hold over people.
About your expert lecturer/guide…Mr. Mohamed Halouani
A Tunisian native, Mohamed transformed his profound passion for travel and history into a creative and diversified educational career, designing and carrying out multiple archaeological and cultural trips for various institutions such as The Detroit Institute of Art, the Textile Museum, the American Museum of Natural History, and many more organizations. After receiving his degrees in English and Spanish, Mr. Halouani completed his European Masters in linguistics and Hispanic studies at the Sorbonne University in Paris where he now resides. He has extensive knowledge of Islamic architecture and Eastern decorative elements, as well as, archaeology and history. An excellent lecturer on ethnographic and anthropological subjects, he will introduce you not only to the historical jewels of the countries but he’ll also reveal to you their culture and history and introduce you to their tribes and villages.
Journeys International partners on this trip with another company in order to bring groups together.
On arrival in Cotonou, you will be met and transferred to the Maison Rouge (or similar) for check-in and overnight. Cotonou, once just a small fishing village and now the largest city in Benin, is thought to have been founded by King Ghezo of Dahomey in 1830 and grew as a center for the slave trade. Today it is the business center of the country and a major manufacturer of palm oil, textiles, and cement.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Maison Rouge or similar
BDay 2Cotonou / Ganvie / Ouidah (Benin)
Today we’ll cross Lake Nokweby motorized boat to Ganvie, the largest and most beautiful African village on stilts. Here, the inhabitants of the Tofinu ethnic group build their huts on teak stilts and cover the roofs with a thick layer of leaves. The village was established sometime in the 17th century by the Tofinu trying to avoid capture by the Fon warriors who were selling them to European slave traders. Ganvie has managed to preserve its traditions and canoes are a major source of transportation – life unfolds each day as the men fish, women deliver goods to the market, and children go to school and play while guiding the canoes using brightly colored poles. Continue on to Ouidah and check in to the Hotel Casa del Papa (or similar) for dinner and overnight. Ouidah is a city known for its role in the 17th-19th-century Atlantic slave trade. It became the main slave port when it was conquered by the Dahomey Army during the 18th century. Today, Ouidah features Afro-Portuguese architecture, and the laid-back attitude of the local’s blends in harmoniously with the thunder of the distant waves and the rhythm of the drums – a timeless atmosphere described by Bruce Chatwin in his book “The Viceroy of Ouidah.”
Driving time is 2 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Cada del Papa (or similar)
CDay 3Ouidah / Voodoo Festival
Every January 10th in Benin is a national celebration day in honor of the traditional voodoo religion and of the cults associated with it. In particular, many voodoo ceremonies are held in Ouidah, where thousands of adepts (highly skilled practitioners), traditional chiefs, and fetish priests gather. Ouidah became the main slave port when it was conquered by the Dahomey Army during the 18th century. On a walking tour, visit the Temple of Pythons, a sacred shrine that is home to dozens of pythons that roam freely throughout the temple. Across from the temple is the Catholic Cathedral. Next, visit the Portuguese Fort, now a museum on the history of Ouidah and the slave trade. You’ll end the tour by following the “slave road” to the beach and to the “Point of No Return” where most slaves were kept while they waited to be shipped off to the Americas – without any hope of returning. We’ll choose the best sites for you to attend today’s voodoo festival according to the festival program. Return to the hotel in Ouidah for dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Casa del Papa
DDay 4Ouidah / Abomey / Dassa
After breakfast, we’ll head out on a scenic journey to Abomey, a kingdom whose economy was based on the slave trade for a long time. A permanent state of war made it possible for the kings to capture thousands of prisoners whom they then sold as slaves. The Abomey Royal Army included a female troop famous for its boldness and aggressive fighting spirit. At the height of their power, there were up to 4,000 women in the palace harem. We’ll visit the Royal Palaceand see the bas-reliefs representing symbols of the ancient Dahomey kings decorated on its walls. Now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the museum houses items that once belonged to the ancient kings including thrones, cult altars, statues, costumes, and weapons. In the middle of the royal courtyardis atemplebuilt with a mixture of clay, gold dust, and human blood. Continue on to Dassa and transfer to the Hotel Jeko (or similar) for dinner and overnight.
Total drive time today: 200 km/ 4 hours.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Jeko (or similar)
EDay 5Dassa / Natitingou
This morning, stop at the Dankoli Fetish, an important place for the voodoo cult. A fetish is a statue or object that contains supernatural powers. Decorations such as horns, shells, feathers, metal, cloth, fur, and herbs are said to add power to the fetish. Each fetish is designed to promote health and happiness, as well as offer protection from evil spirits, among other things. Perhaps the most important and powerful of these objects is the Dankoli Fetish, a popular pilgrimage site. In fact, it is said the Dankoli Fetish wields so much strength that the voodoo followers who come here can communicate directly with the gods without the help of a priest or priestess. The devotees who have had their demands met must come back to the fetish and bring an offering to thank the gods, usually by pouring the blood of a chicken or other animal on the object which helped to grant their wishes. Continue on to the mountainous region of Djougou and enjoy a hike through the old Taneka villages. These villages are made up of round houses covered with a conical roof that is protected at the top by a terra-cotta pot. The upper part of the village is inhabited by the young initiated and fetish priests who only cover themselves with a piece of goat skin and always carry a long pipe. This ethnic group has been living here for centuries, and in fact, it is thought that the first inhabitants (of Kabye origins) moved to the mountain sometime during the 9th century. Since then, other groups including the Bariba, Gourmantche, and later, the Ashanti (who came here to escape the slave market) have made these mountains their home, forming a kind of melting-pot. Despite the fact that each group has kept its own cults and initiation rites, common religious and political institutions were defined so that they could live in harmony. They all shared a common goal – to defend themselves against their enemies. This village is a great example of how different cultures and ethnicities can live peacefully and create a new population. As you wander among the villages, along alleys bordered by a series of smooth stones, you may come across the half-naked Taneka men. This ethnic group believes that in order to “become” a man, it is necessary to combine time, patience, and a lot of blood – from sacrificed animals. It is actually a life-long process in the sense that life itself becomes a “rite of passage” and should not be considered a “before” or an “after” but rather as “following a continuous path.”
Total drive time today: 217 miles/ 6 hours
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Tata Somba or similar
FDay 6Natitingou/Defale, Togo
Depart for the Atakora Mountains and enter the land of the Somba and Tamberma people. The fortified dwellings of these groups are similar in shape to medieval castles and are one of the most beautiful examples of ancient African architecture. Their style impressed Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier so much that he compared them to “architectural sculpture.” These UNESCO World Heritage Site homes are built by hand, layer by layer, adding round mud balls and shaping them as per the plan of the house. These structures are created with a combination of strength, care, and beauty in mind. The strong, traditional beliefs of the people can be seen in the presence of big shrines – phallic in form – at the entrance of their homes. With permission granted by the inhabitants, you’ll enter their homes for a better understanding of their way of life. Their houses are actually a projection of their anthropology and cosmology. The ground floor, with its darkness, represents death and is the place of ancestors. And the second floor, open to the sky, represents life and is the place where grandmothers keep babies until they “find out” which ancestor has come back as the new life – it is only then that the baby is allowed to come down from the terrace. The family, food supplies, and stock are all kept inside the house for safety and survival in case of an attack by enemies. In fact, for centuries, these people have been seeking refuge in the Atakora Mountains to escape slave traders. Overnight at your hotel in Defale.
Driving time is 3 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel in Defale
GDay 7Defale / Tamale, Ghana
Today, the road takes you to the Ghana border and to a seldom-visited region in the savannah where the Dagomba ethnic group lives. Similar to the Taneka villages, the houses here are round clay huts with thatched roofs. The home of the village chief is easily recognizable due to its larger size and style. It has a central pole supporting the roof and the entry is framed with pieces of burnt clay. This is also where the council of the elders meets. Continuing on, you’ll meet a very large settlement of witches – all exiled from their villages because they were found guilty of causing terrible events, such as the death of a teenager, a mysterious disease, a bad harvest, etc. You’ll chat with them about their lives and about the special shrine that protects them and “cleanses” their spirit from bad will. Their warm welcome is a sharp contrast with the stories that justify their being here.
Driving time is 6 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Gariba Lodge (or similar)
HDay 8Tamale / Techiman
Drive from the savannah to the Brong Ahafo region, veering off the main road to another path, which leads to a sacred forest where the people consider Monas and Colobus monkeys as their totems. As a result, you’ll encounter the largest community of these monkey species in the world. During a walk through the forest, accompanied by the emerald green light filtered by the giant trees, you will see plenty of these sacred primates.
Driving time is 6 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Encom Hotel (or similar)
IDay 9Techiman / Kumasi
Kumasi is the historical and spiritual capital of the old Ashanti Kingdom. The Ashanti people were one of the most powerful nations in Africa until the end of the 19th century when the British annexed Ashanti Country to their Gold Coast colony. The tribute paid today to the Asantehene (King) is the best example of their past splendor and strength. With nearly one million inhabitants, Kumasi is a sprawling city with a fantastic central market, one of the biggest in Africa. Every type of Ashanti craft (leather goods, pottery, Kente cloth, etc.) can be found here, along with just about any kind of tropical fruit and vegetable. The program also includes a visit to the Ashanti Cultural Centre, where you’ll find a rich collection of local artifacts displayed in a wonderful reproduction of an Ashanti house. In the afternoon, if available, you’ll participate in a traditional Ashanti funeral, attended by mourners wearing beautiful red or black togas. We say “funeral,” but it actually means “festive celebration.” The deceased, in fact, are believed to still be with his or her family, and through this ceremony, he or she becomes an ancestor. Relatives and friends gather, socialize, and celebrate the memory of the recently departed, who will be buried in a coffin shaped to represent the deceased’s profession or hobby. The chief arrives, surrounded by his court under the shade of large umbrellas, while drums give rhythm to the dancers, whose intricate moves are highly symbolic.
Driving time is 4 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Golden Tulip Hotel (or similar)
JDay 10Kumasi
The tour of Kumasi continues with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum, which contains a unique collection of gold jewels worn by the Ashanti court. There are also a few villages nearby that specialize in weaving the traditional Kente cloth, historically worn by people of high social standing, and used to make special ceremonial stools. At the end of these amazing visits, drive back to the coast.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Golden Tulip Hotel (or similar)
KDay 11Kumasi / Gold Coast / Ellmina
Start the day by driving to Ghana, formerly known as the Gold Coast and home to more than 50 ancient forts and castles reminiscent of the ancient gold, ivory, and slave trade. Cape Coast Castle was built by the Swedish in 1653 and changed hands many times from 1657 to 1664 after being conquered by the Danes, the Dutch, the Fanti (a local tribe), the Swedes, and finally the British. Today, it hosts a museum on the history of slave trade. From the top of the castle, you will enjoy a magnificent view of the town. We’ll also visit the nearby Fort William and its lighthouse before arriving at our hotel in Elmina. Dinner and overnight at Coconut Grove Resort (or similar.)
Driving time today is 4 hrs.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Coconut Grove Hotel (or similar)
LDay 12 Elmina
A few miles north of the coast, in the middle of a rainforest, we’ll explore Kakum National Park. From the park’s walking canopy, we’ll have the great opportunity to observe the forest from above. Walking between 120 to 150 feet above the ground, we’ll enjoy incredible views of the rainforest. From here, we’ll move on to Elmina Castle, the oldest European building in Africa built by the Portuguese in the 15th century. At different times the castle was used as a warehouse to trade gold, ivory, and eventually slaves. The castle we will visit today is the result of successive extension work and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The old Dutch Cemetery in Elmina goes back to 1806. Outside the castle, there is a spectacular fishing village with lots of large colorful fishing boats – every day these large wooden pirogues (wooden canoes) are steered by skilled fishermen across strong ocean waves and currents, “fighting” to earn a living. In the old town, we will see the Posuban, shrines of the ancient “Asafo companies” – warriors who used to put their offerings on these large colorful statues. The alleys in the old town have a very lively atmosphere, bringing us back to a time when Elmina was a busy colonial town. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Coconut Grove Hotel (or similar)
MDay 13 Elmina to Accra
Today’s drive takes us to Accra, Ghana’s intriguing capital city that has maintained its unique identity despite the fast-paced development currently underway. Here, you’ll visit the National Museum, established in 1957 and one of the first structures of independent Ghana. Next, explore the old quarter of James Town, inhabited by the local population known as the Ga people. Your tour ends with a visit to a workshop where they specialize in building fantasy coffins. These special hand-crafted coffins can reflect any shape: fruits, animals, fish, cars, airplanes… the only limit is your imagination! The coffins are used by the Ga people, who believe that death is not the end, and life continues into the next world just as it did on earth. These flamboyant coffin designs are now collected worldwide and shown in museums. Overnight at the La Villa Boutique Hotel (or similar.)
Driving time is 3 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
La Villa Boutique Hotel (or similar)
NDay 14Lomé / Departure
Lomé, the vibrant capital of Togo, is the only African city that was once a colony of the Germans, British, and French. It is also one of the few capitals in the world that borders with another nation. These elements have led to the development of a unique identity reflected in the lifestyle of its inhabitants and in the architecture of the town. Lomé is a crossroads for people, trade, and cultures – a cosmopolitan city, yet still small in size. We’ll begin our city tour with a visit to the central market to see the famous “Nana Benz” (African Queens of Textile) – women who control the expensive “pagne” (cloths) market. They are known as “Nana Benz” because between the 1950’s and 1980’s, they had made so much money that they were the only people who could afford Mercedes Benzes. Next, we’ll see the colonial buildings in the administrative quarter where the flavor of colonial times is still very much alive and explore the fetish market where we’ll find an eclectic assortment of all the necessary ingredients for love potions and magical concoctions. We’ll have a chance to freshen up and relax at the Le Patio Lodge (or similar) before our evening transfer to the airport for our onward flight, arriving back home the following day.
Driving time 3 hrs
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
Tourist facilities are very limited in the remote regions and small villages you will be visiting. There are few first-class hotels anywhere outside the cities, but rest assured, we always try to acquire the best possible. For the most part, the hotels are comfortable, but they are very basic. Hotel air-conditioning in West Africa does not cool a room to American standards of comfort, and there may be occasions where the hotel’s electricity goes off for periods of time.
Frequent stops will be made to give you ample opportunity to stroll around villages and markets to see and experience the differences in architecture, dress, and culture among the many tribes in West Africa. Participants should understand that this trip involves long drives, hot and humid weather, and somewhat basic hotels outside of Accra. Your physical fitness will be an important factor in your enjoyment of your trip. There are dangers inherent in any expedition traveling to remote regions, such as sickness and lack of modern medical facilities. If you have any chronic health problems (respiratory or cardiac problems, a bad back, or diabetes), we recommend you consider a different trip.
The weather is hot and humid, and you need to be able to tolerate temperatures in the mid-80’s to mid-’90s. In addition, some of the roads are dirt and this can cause breathing and eye irritation from the dust. By signing up for such a tour, you are admitting to accepting these challenges and you are agreeing to be tolerant, flexible, and patient with any possible inefficiency. It is highly advisable to purchase travel protection insurance for this trip (as all our trips).
BEWARE that slaughtering animals is an integral part of the Voodoo culture; tourists are often upset seeing such rituals take place, and many people may find it unsettling to witness such ceremonies. There are also the remains of many animals and birds on display, including some that are under threat.
*Prices may fluctuate up to 30 days prior to departure due to currency exchange rate fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and other circumstances beyond our control.
We are happy to have you participate in a Journeys International program!
Please read these terms and conditions thoroughly. They contain information that will be important to your planning and guide how we will handle any circumstances that may change in the midst of planning or while a program is underway. If after reading our materials and talking with our staff you decide to participate in a Journeys International program, please send us your deposit along with your completed Reservation Form and Explorer Information Forms. Important: Your booking is only complete once we receive your deposit, completed Reservation Form, and completed Explorer Information Form, and once we have confirmed that space is available.
Pricing and Payment
We will confirm your reservations once we receive a non-refundable booking deposit, a Reservation Form signed by each person responsible for payment, and an Explorer Information Form signed by each participating adult or the guardian for each participating child, and if space is available. Custom programs during holiday seasons may require a deposit prior to confirmation. The deposit contributes to non-recoverable costs of holding space and servicing your booking through the stages of preparation, execution, and follow-up and cannot be refunded if you choose to cancel.
We charge an additional planning fee of $250 per program for preparing customized proposals. This fee may be credited to your total cost upon booking, but it is non-refundable if you choose not to finalize your reservation.
Prices are stated in U.S. Dollars, based on double room occupancy, unless otherwise noted. We will send an invoice for your total estimated cost when we send your reservation confirmation. The balance as shown on your invoice is due 60 days prior to your program start date regardless of whether any arrangements are still pending. Although we do our best to avoid increasing prices after we receive your deposit, in some cases it may be necessary to adjust pricing after we receive payment to allow for changes in group size, rooming status, currency exchange rate fluctuations, fuel surcharges and/or other circumstances attendant to the challenges of adventure.
Late payments may jeopardize confirmation of your program participation and in some cases may result in additional fees. If we have not received final payment 30 days prior to departure, then your reservation may be canceled subject to our Cancellation & Refund Policy stated below.
Payment for airfare is required at the time of ticketing. Discounts that may be available are not available toward bookings made through third-party travel agencies, advisors, or planners.
We accept payments by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or check drawn on a U.S. bank account. Paying by credit card offers you certain consumer protections, including the ability to initiate a chargeback if you believe we have committed consumer fraud. You may not use credit card chargeback as an alternative to compliance with your agreement with these terms and conditions.
Late Signups
Early reservations are encouraged! Some programs and flights fill several months in advance. We can confirm your space once we receive your deposit and signed Reservation and Explorer Information Forms. We try, but cannot guarantee, to accept late signups. In the event that we are able to accept reservations fewer than 60 days before a program’s start date, additional fees may apply to cover administrative costs necessary to expedite your reservation confirmation and transmit your program materials. For reservations made fewer than 60 days in advance of your program’s start, full payment is due at the time of booking.
Program Changes
We understand that circumstances arise that lead you to inquire about changes to your custom program, and we aim to satisfy your requests. Once activities and accommodations have been confirmed, we charge a $50 change fee, in addition to the difference in costs for the services booked. When changes are requested less than one week before your program’s start, the change fee is $100. For changes requested after a program has begun, the change fee is $200.
Journeys International reserves the right to change or reprice any program due to acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control. Journeys International cannot guarantee conformity with the provided program plan at any point in time. Among other things, if necessary Journeys International may change the scheduled dates of a program; omit or alter sections of the plan; substitute lodgings, leaders, or conveyances; or change meals, activities, or waypoints; all without notice and without allowance for refunds and with participants bearing the responsibility for increased costs, if any. Should this become necessary, Journeys International will not be liable for extra costs that participants may incur as a result of changes, including but not limited to flight change fees, additional meal costs, or additional accommodations. We strongly recommend that participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, adequate to cover such costs.
Cancellations & Refunds
If you must cancel before your program begins, please notify Journeys International in writing by emailing info@journeysinternational.com or writing to your adventure specialist directly. You may request a refund according to the following schedule. Some programs require additional non-refundable payments beyond this schedule, as noted in the program description. In the case of cancellation, such amounts are withheld in addition to the amounts listed here.
Days Prior to Departure
Cancellation Penalty
61 or more
Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable
31-60
Non-refundable booking deposit and planning fee, if applicable, plus 50% of total land costs above amount of initial deposit
0-30
100% of total land costs
Please note: cancellation of airfare, other transit, lodging, and ticketed tours and activities is subject to the policies of the individual carriers or providers and is not included in the schedule above. Additional cancellation fees are the responsibility of the traveler. We strongly recommend that all participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, that includes coverage for trip cancellation or interruption and that may reimburse you for cancellation penalties and extra expenses should a circumstance force you to cancel or interrupt your participation.
Departure is defined as the date on which travelers will leave their home state, province or city, or the program start date as indicated on the program description, whichever comes first. Cancellation date will be considered the date that we receive written notification of your intent to cancel according to the local time observed in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Payments due at the time of cancellation remain the responsibility of the participant. No partial refunds are possible for unused hotel rooms, air or land travel, program days, or other sight-seeing arrangements included in the land cost.
If Journeys International cancels or postpones a program before the program starts for reasons completely within its discretion, such as but not limited to insufficient group size, all money for services described in the program description will be refunded in the form of credit towards a future program with Journeys in the same location originally planned, less unrecoverable fees and penalties already paid to airlines, accommodations, or other service providers, or the client may submit a written request for a refund to the original form of payment. If a program’s cancellation is necessary due to acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control, credits and refunds will be issued according to the standard cancellation schedule, less unrecoverable fees and penalties already paid to airlines, accommodations, or other service providers, without regard to whether client or company initiates cancellation or postponement. Once a program begins, there are no refunds for unused goods or services.
Air Fares
We can help you to secure air travel arrangements for Journeys International programs. We work with an airfare consolidator to assist in booking the flights that suit your needs. Journeys International and/or the airfare consolidator may charge a ticketing fee for this service. For group programs, if you prefer to fly on dates other than those listed as program dates, or if you arrive at your destination other than at the group arrival time, then you may incur additional fees to cover the separate transfer, contingency, and coordination costs which frequently arise from arrival and departure on flights different from our regular bookings. We will let you know about these fees ahead of time, if they apply. If you must change your air routing after ticketing, there is a charge of $50 per change, in addition to change or cancellation charges levied by the airline.
If you decide to make your own flight arrangements, you must provide Journeys International with a complete copy of your itinerary showing departure and arrival flights and times. You should plan to arrange your own air travel if you are using mileage credit or originating outside North America, but please be in touch with our office before you finalize ticketing so that we may help you to coordinate the correct arrival and departure dates and times. If you arrange your own flights, we can book ground transfers to meet you on arrival in your destination if you wish, and you agree to pay additional costs, as applicable.
Transfers Between Programs
You may transfer between some programs upon written request. More than 60 days before your program start date, the deposit transfer fee is $100 per person plus any cancellation fees charged by airlines, hotels, or ground service providers. 60 days or fewer before the program start date, full cancellation penalties from the original program apply. In the event that Journeys International cancels a program, you may transfer the full amount of your payments to another program without penalty, subject to availability.
Expenses Covered
Normally, our stated total costs include the costs of all guides, leaders, facilities, permits obtained after arrival, lodging accommodations, costs of described activities, food as specified, and all surface transportation associated with the activities described in the itinerary. We do our best to avoid increasing prices after receipt of your deposit, but factors beyond our control might require us to change our prices without prior notice, even after you have signed up.
Expenses Not Covered
Costs not included in the price may include: meals not indicated as included in program descriptions; meals prior to arrival in starting cities; transfers, if not arriving or departing on the scheduled group flights; soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages; medical expenses, costs of hospitalization, or evacuation from remote areas; laundry; airport departure taxes not included on your airline ticket; accommodations en route to starting cities; visas; airfares; gratuities; and insurance.
If a program must be modified due to medical emergency, acts of insurrection, strikes, weather, road conditions, acts of God or government, or any other force majeure or cause beyond the company’s control, then the participant may incur additional costs that are not included in the program price. We strongly recommend that all participants purchase Travel Protection Plans, or travel insurance, to cover these risks.
Travel Insurance
Journeys International strongly recommends that you purchase a Travel Protection Plan, or travel insurance, sufficient to protect your investment in travel, personal assets and health during your program. Doing so will mitigate a significant amount of financial risk and decrease your need to worry about things beyond your control. We do not require you to purchase such travel insurance; however, we know many travelers who have benefited from purchasing travel insurance because the insurance carrier assumed risks that would otherwise have been the risk of the traveler. Travel Protection Plans often cover things like theft, baggage loss, trip interruption or cancellation, emergency evacuation, emergency medical treatment, flight delay or cancellation, airline or service provider bankruptcy, jury duty, personal or family sickness leading to cancellation, U.S. Department of State Travel Warnings about terrorism issued for the destination, and other risks as described in the insurance policy. In particular, consider the availability of higher-cost “Cancel for Any Reason” and/or “Interrupt for Any Reason” policies that may allow policy-holders to recoup a significant portion of trip costs under a much wider range of circumstances than standard policies may allow; we have seen travelers benefit from this selection when public health crises, personal turmoil, and civil unrest arose in their destinations. Please note that while we at Journeys will do our best to help you to have a pleasant and successful experience, Journeys International assumes no liability for many of the types of losses described above. If you choose not to purchase travel insurance and you suffer a loss, then you will be responsible for the associated costs.
For your convenience, we will provide a recommendation for an insurance carrier that offers competitive rates and has proven reliable, fair, and prompt in responding to claims, but we can offer no guarantee that our recommended carrier will meet your needs and you are welcome to contact any insurance carrier that you prefer. It is important to obtain insurance immediately upon signing up for your program in order for problems arising from pre-existing conditions to be covered.
All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy that covers you while in your travel destination for the duration of your trip. For some individuals or for some destinations, it may be advisable to purchase a supplemental policy. Contact your provider for coverage details.
Group-Sized Pricing & Group Minimums
Many programs are guaranteed to depart at prices published on our website with as few as two participants. In some cases, it may become necessary to increase prices depending on the size of the group. We do everything we can to make a program operate as planned even with a single participant. Additional costs for small groups vary from program to program. When pricing for a group program is based on the number of participants, staff and guests of Journeys International (such as topic experts, journalists, photographers, leaders-in-training, or others) are not included in the numbers counted to determine the price. Final decision to cancel a program due to insufficient signups is made at least 60 days prior to departure.
Lodging Accommodations
Lodging accommodations are usually double occupancy in hotel rooms, tents, or other facilities as described in trip itineraries. Please contact our office to discuss pricing and availability of alternative accommodations, if desired. We try to honor specific requests for lodging, but in some cases, we may have to book and confirm equivalent-standard accommodations. In rare cases it may become necessary to make same-day or out-of-class substitutions.
If you are joining alone for a group program but would prefer a roommate, then let us know! We are often able to match solo participants. If a roommate is not available or if you prefer single accommodation, then you must pay the Single Supplement, if one applies. For some programs it is not possible to guarantee single accommodations.
Assumption of Risk
Throughout any program of Journeys International, certain risks and dangers may arise. These include, but are not limited to, travel by train, foot, automobile, aircraft, raft, boat or other means of conveyance; the hazards of traveling in rough or mountainous terrain; high altitude; undeveloped areas; the forces of nature; civil unrest; terrorism; labor interruption; close proximity to fellow program participants; exposure to illness or virus; and accident or illness in remote areas without means of rapid evacuations or availability of medical supplies and facilities. The unique nature of adventure programs entails inherent risks that may be involved in unique program activities and travel away from home and, in fact, the specific nature of these activities is often a reason for participation. Even if a trip or program is rated “easy” these dangers and risks are present. Journeys International and its agents and operators will have no liability regarding emotional distress, equipment, access to, or adequacy of medical care, evacuation plans, or emergency supplies that may be provided. When you sign the Explorer Information Form, you agree to participate in these activities with full knowledge of the dangers and risks involved and agree to assume all risks, including trauma, sickness, injury, and death.
While Journeys International intends that your experience be safe and comfortable, Journeys does not have legal or operational control or ownership of facilities, staff, services, or transportation providers and acts only as agent for the owners of such facilities, staff, services, and transportation. Journeys International is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act by any such person or entity, nor for any act or inaction of any third party not under its control.
In consideration of the right to participate in Journeys International programs and the service arranged for you by Journeys International and its agents and representatives, you unconditionally and fully assume all risks of bodily injury, death, emotional trauma, property damage, and/or theft, however caused, including those mentioned above, as a result of participation, and release Journeys International, its agents, and its representatives from any and all liability, actions, causes of actions, suits, debts, demands that you may have, including for bodily injury, death, or property damage, loss of income, and other claims.
Fitness to Join
Good physical and mental health are essential for the enjoyment of Journeys International’s programs. It is your responsibility to select/design a trip appropriate to your own abilities and interests. You are responsible for being in sufficiently good health to undertake your trip, and for consulting with your physician for medical advice regarding travel. On some Journeys International programs, participants travel in rugged areas remote from modern medical facilities. Good physical conditioning is recommended as preparation for all programs, especially those involving hiking or trekking. Most programs require some walking. By signing the Explorer Information Form, participants certify that they are fit for rigorous activity and do not have any physical, mental, or other condition that would create a hazard for him/herself or other participants. It is essential that any participant with a medical condition requiring regular treatment or which may be affected by vigorous activity, prolonged travel, high altitude, heat, cold, natural phenomena, or particular foods, notify Journeys International in writing prior to booking. We assume no responsibility for medical care, and we cannot guarantee meeting special dietary requirements or vegetarian needs. Participants may be required to furnish a physician’s statement of good health for some programs.
Journeys International’s or the individual group leader’s or guide’s judgment shall provide the ultimate determination of an individual’s fitness to embark upon, or to continue, a program. Journeys International reserves the right to refuse reservations or deny participation to anyone whom it deems unsuitable for a program or certain activities. Once a reservation has been confirmed, medical circumstances will not be considered as exceptions to our cancellation policy. All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy for the duration of their participation. Proof of such coverage may be required.
Personal Conduct
You are responsible for acting in a manner considerate and respectful of fellow group members and local culture in areas visited.
You are responsible for reading all health-related information provided in advance of the program, adhering to all guidance given by guides and site staff, and conforming to the established standards of personal hygiene to minimize risk of disease. This may include a requirement to wear a face mask when in proximity to other people, whether indoors or outdoors, or other measures intended to limit the spread of disease; failure to do so when requested may result in your dismissal from the program.
Certain activities included in your program may require specific safety precautions. You are responsible for listening to instructions, adhering to guidance, and following the protocols provided for safety throughout the program. If you are unsure about safety precautions, you are responsible for seeking advice. If guides or staff perceive your behavior as risky, uncooperative, or otherwise unsafe, they may remove you from an activity for the safety of yourself and others.
Smoking or vaping are not permitted in buses, cars, below decks on boats, in tented camps, in designated non-smoking areas, or during guided tours and activities. Participants agree not to consume cannabis for the duration of the program and understand that possession or use of cannabis may be illegal and subject to severe punishment in some destinations. Participants agree to follow all local laws in the jurisdiction(s) where the program takes place and acknowledge that Journeys International cannot be responsible for ensuring participants’ compliance nor for any costs or consequences of non-compliance.
Sexual harassment or misconduct of any sort by Journeys program participants is not tolerated. You may not make jokes or sexually suggestive comments or gestures regarding the bodies or bodily activities of fellow participants, program staff, site staff, or any people you encounter during your program. You may not touch fellow participants, program staff, site staff, or any people you encounter during your program unless invited. You may not solicit sexual services during the dates of your participation in a Journeys program.
Environmental Stewardship
Journeys International believes that we have a responsibility to protect the earth for future generations. Tourism may be responsible for up to eight percent of annual worldwide emissions of greenhouse gasses. Journeys International advocates that adventure travelers who make environmentally conscious choices when selecting their destinations and activities should also make the environmentally conscious choice to offset the carbon footprint of their travel to compensate for their personal contributions to global climate change. Every Journeys International invoice includes an optional donation to the Earth Preservation Fund’s carbon offset program to be used to purchase and permanently retire certified carbon credits to offset the carbon footprints of Journeys’ program participants. The Earth Preservation Fund purchases carbon credits that have been certified under a reliable third-party standard. Participants who choose to make this donation may also be eligible to claim a tax deduction. There is no penalty for opting out of this donation.
Recording
Journeys International may take photographic, audiographic, and videographic recordings during your program, and may use your image and voice for promotional and commercial use without compensation.
Planning & Preparation Services
We look forward to working with you! After we receive your deposit, we will send you a planning packet containing things like medical and immunization information, visa and other permit forms, a recommendation for travel insurance, packing checklist, reading list, cross-cultural information, and an initial invoice for the balance due. About 3 weeks before your program begins, we will send you a final notes packet including last-minute reminders and contact information for your program. You are responsible for reading all information provided, and for bringing all clothing and equipment noted on the packing list. If you are leaving home before the scheduled trip departure date, please let us know how we can best reach you in case any details change in the days immediately prior to your program’s start.
Please call our office at any time if you have questions about your trip or for additional information.
Duration 14 Days
The number of days, or duration, in a destination corresponds with the itinerary as published. This is the time period covered by the land cost. The total number of days includes the time required to travel between the USA and the destination country.
Group Size 6-12
The stated range indicates minimum required for guaranteed departure and maximum accepted on the scheduled dates. Exceptions can often be made for private departures.
Comfort Level
Superior
Comfortable hotels
Activity Level
Active
Easy walking, travel over rough roads
Why Journeys International
Our purpose is to understand the journey you are on – not just the vacation you want to take – and to help you on your way.
We are here to help you plan the trip that will move you closer to your goals and help you fulfill your dreams.
We are here to help you plan a more inspiring, more provocative, more breathtaking, more transformational adventure.
We say “adventure” and not “trip” because, for us, a trip is just going someplace else, but an adventure is an experience that takes you someplace beyond your comfort zone – and therefore maximizes the potential for wonder, discovery, and potentially transformation.
Why trust Journeys to plan that kind of experience with you?
Journeys is an award-winning industry-leader with more than 40 years in business planning creative and thoughtful adventures in interesting places around the world
Our staff is professional and devoted, with adventure specialists in Ann Arbor and guides in the field who take pride in traveler satisfaction; many stay with us for decades
Our Ecological Code of Ethics has long stood as a model for others, and our Earth Preservation Fund puts our money where our mouth is
We go to the farthest corners of the earth – you’ll see some pretty remote destinations on our list, and if you want to challenge us with something new, we’ll likely be willing (though we’ll make sure you know if we’ve never experienced it firsthand)
We’re real people like you, starting with the real person who will answer the phone, right through the owner, Robin Pollak, who you can talk to any time you want (or even her parents, Joan & Will Weber, who started the company!)
We ask lots of questions and get to know you as well as possible to we can design the best experience for YOU
Your unique itinerary includes sites, accommodations, activities, and meetings with people hand selected for personal goals, passions, interests and abilities
Your personal adventure specialist stays with you from trip planning through departure to answer all your questions – promptly – and make sure every detail is handled so you are well prepared for your trip
Our partners on the ground in your destination will welcome you as a friend of a friend; we’ve been working with many of them for ages
We’re open and clear, and offer a complete picture of what you can expect while traveling. We don’t want to make an easy sale; we want to make an honest one.
24-hour emergency phone support while traveling
We’ll be excited to hear about the trip when you get back, and take all feedback seriously
Our travelers come back again and again, for five, ten, or more adventures — and they trust us enough to send their friends to us, too
We love what we do, and we love sharing our common passion with you.
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.
Comfort Level
Choose accommodations and amenities that fit your personal style
Simple
Our most natural accommodations. Bath facilities often shared, sometimes rustic.
Delightful
Comfortable and especially personal. Small to mid-sized lodges, typically with private bath.
Superior
Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined artistry, or extra-special settings.
Deluxe
Exclusive or luxury lodges, hotels, or safari camps with fine dining options.
Uncommon
The most indulgent accommodations arranged specially for private trips.
Single Supplement
The single supplement is applicable if a roommate is not available or if single accommodation is specifically requested. While single accommodation is not available on all trips, we will try and honor this request whenever possible.
