This is our ultimate West Africa trip as it takes us from the western most part of mainland Africa, through to the southern tip of the continent, travelling overland in between. However, do not expect things to follow the itinerary as they may well not. We only run this trip once a year and it is only for really experienced travellers or for folk who are happy to go way out of their comfort zone. It is an amazing journey through some of Africa's least visited countries.
We divide the journey into three parts. The first part from Dakar through to Freetown, takes you in 23 days through Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea Bissau and then into Sierra Leone. The next section of 28 days, cuts back through Guinea, and then explores Ivory Coast and Ghana. Finally we embark on the real expedition stage of the journey, through Ghana, Togo, Benin, Nigeria and into the jungles of Cameroon.
Then heading south out of West Africa, into the beauty of Gabon, a haven of wildlife, forests and beaches and into The Congo, DRC and on into Angola. Angola is the hidden gem for travellers and finally we enter Namibia and on to the Cape.
HIGHLIGHTS
Immerse in the art and culture of Dakar
Explore atmospheric St Louis
Visit the stunning grand mosque of Touba
Spot exotic birds at Tendeba in Gambia
2 days at the coastal resort of Cap Skirring
Overland the rough and tough roads of Guinea
Overnight in remote community accommodation
Guided 2 day trip to Fouta Djallon
Relax on the beaches of Freetown peninsular in Sierra Leone
Explore Freetown and visit the National Museum
Relax on the beaches of Freetown peninsula in Sierra Leone
Visit Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary and try and spot a rare Pygmy hippo
Shop for Ronko-dyed clothes in the market at Kabala
Try out the famous vine bridges of Guinea
Overland through Cote d'Ivoire
Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, the largest Christian church in the world
Explore the old colonial town of Grand Bassam
Visit a supported community project in Elmina, Ghana
Jungle visit at Kakum NP
Shop at West Africa's largest market in Kumasi
Enjoy a fine meal and cool drink in one of Accra's many restaurants
Discovering an unexplored route down the west of the continent.
Wild camping in local villages on route
2 day overland safari through Etosha NP with excellent wildlife
Wildcamp and hike in the stunning wild mountains of Spitzkoppe
Take a cable car up Table Mountain or any of the numerous options in Cape Town
Visit a local village to witness a traditional Voodoo ceremony
Enjoy a guided walk around Butterfly Mountain, Mont Kluto
WHAT TO EXPECT
This is a long unpredictable and hard journey; expect the unexpected and embrace it. We will not guarantee the itinerary, the accommodation or even the countries that we will be able to travel through. We will vet all travellers who wish to take part in this expedition.
Border information: if you are joining at Dakar, you will most likely enter Senegal at Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport (IATA code: DSS).
Today is an arrival day with a pre departure meeting at 10:00am. Your leader will leave a note in reception telling you where this important meeting will take place. Your leader will collect your kitty and check your passport and insurance details at this meeting.
The afternoon will be free to explore the cosmopolitan city and perhaps take an optional trip to the famous Île de Goreé.
Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Dakar before the start of your trip with us - please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Dakar.
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Day 2 - Saint-Louis (23rd November 2021)
Today we head north through the dry Sahel region to the old colonial city of St. Louis, formerly the capital of French West Africa.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
Day 3 - Saint-Louis (24th November 2021)
Today we will have a free day to explore the streets of the old city and take an optional trip to the Langue de Barbarie NP or the nearby Djoudj Birdlife Reserve.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 4 - Toubakouta (25th November 2021)
Today we start our journey south to the small town of Toubakouta, situated close to the Sine-Saloum Delta. On the way we will see the landscape change as we enter the greener wetland region, and we will stop to see the Grand Mosque of Touba, one of the best known mosques in Senegal and most holy site in the Mouride branch of Islam.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 9
Day 5 - Toubakouta (26th November 2021)
On our full day in Toubakouta we will have an optional morning pirogue trip to a nearby village to see a slice of rural Senegalese life and to meet their charismatic female chief. In the afternoon we have an included pirogue trip to the mangroves, the 'Shellfish Island' and the 'Island of Birds' - if the weather is good, there are often some stunning sunsets across the delta.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 6 - Tendaba (27th November 2021)
Border information: Exit Senegal at Karang, enter The Gambia at Fass.
Today we will head across the border from Senegal into the small country of The Gambia, then cross the Gambia River on a local transport barge to arrive at the famous Tendaba Camp on the southern shore of the Gambia River. The ferry can be quite a chaotic local experience! Tendaba Camp was the first inland hotel in The Gambia, and is one of the most popular spots in the country for birdwatchers.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 9
Day 7 - Tendaba (28th November 2021)
Tendaba is located opposite the Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve, one of the premier birdwatching sites in Africa. On our full day here we will have an included morning boat trip into the wetlands to spot some of the stunning area's wildlife and natural scenery. We will also have an opportunity to take an optional safari drive around the nearby forests of Kiang West NP.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 8 - Cap Skirring (29th November 2021)
Border information: Exit The Gambia at Soma, enter Senegal at Senoba.
Today we will cross the border into the southern Casamance region of Senegal, arriving at the beautiful beaches of Cap Skirring.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 9 - Cap Skirring (30th November 2021)
We will have 2 full days in Cap Skirring, where there will be good opportunities for optional activities such as swimming, biking, fishing, quad-biking and sun-bathing! While in Cap Skirring, your co-driver will travel to the nearby town of Ziguinchor to obtain Guinea-Bissau visas for the group at the consulate there.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 10 - Cap Skirring (1st December 2021)
On our final day here we can continue to enjoy the activities on offer, relax and recharge ready for the journey ahead.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 11 - Bissau (2nd December 2021)
Border information: Exit Senegal at Mpack, enter Guinea Bissau at São Domingos.
Today we will drive across the border into the very rarely-visited country of Guinea-Bissau, and drive to its capital of Bissau.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 12 - Bissau (3rd December 2021)
Today, we will have time to freely explore the city and the old Portuguese centre of Bissau Velho.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 13 - Labe (4th December 2021)
Border information: Exit Guinea-Bissau at Kandika, enter Guinea at Kandika.
From Bissau we will journey through Guinea-Bissau and into the remote hilly areas of northern Guinea on our way to the town of Labé, the gateway to the stunning Fouta Djallon highland region. The roads on this section are very challenging dirt roads which take us through some incredibly remote areas, and our speed will largely be determined by the state of these roads - although getting to these areas is very special and a great adventure, even more flexibility will be required on these days!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Day 14 - Labe (5th December 2021)
We will stop for 2 wild camps en route - the first is likely to be next to the Guinean border at Kandika, the second is likely to be in the highlands past the village of Seriba.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 11
Day 15 - Labe (6th December 2021)
Today we continue our drive and find ourselves another stunning wild camp ready to reach Labe tomorrow.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
Day 16 - Labe (7th December 2021)
From Labé we will set off for an included 2-day excursion to the heart of the Fouta Djallon region of Guinea.
On the first day we will travel in 4x4 jeeps through very remote country roads to the small rural community of Aïnguel (approximately a 4 hour drive). After lunch there will be a short 3-hour trek to a waterfall viewpoint and to the nearby 'Pont de Pierre' rock bridge where we have the change to swim in a beautiful natural lagoon.
On this night we will stay in a very small and basic community-run guesthouse - please note that if the group is large, some people may need to sleep in tents just outside.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 17 - Labe (8th December 2021)
On the second day there is a long 8-hour trek through the surrounding hills and villages taking in the incredible scenery. We will stop for a picnic lunch next to a stunning waterfall, where we have the opportunity to swim in the lagoon beneath. In the latter stages of the trek, we hope to be able to get to the base of a much larger and incredibly powerful waterfall, although this is dependent on the ground waters having receded enough after the rainy season to make this route passable.
Upon returning after this walk, we will immediately drive back in the 4x4s to Labe.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 18 - Mamou (9th December 2021)
Leaving the Fouta Djallon region behind us, we head south through central Guinea to the town of Mamou.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
Day 19 - Southern Guinea (10th December 2021)
Today we will continue our drive south through Guinea, stopping to wild camp close to the border with Sierra Leone.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 20 - Freetown Peninsula (11th December 2021)
Border information: Exit Guinea at Pamalap, enter Sierra Leone at Kindia.
Today we head to the stunning beaches of Freetown Peninsular, where we will spend 2 nights for some well-deserved relaxation after our journey through the tough roads of Guinea.
There are a few different options for which beaches we could choose to visit, our favourites being Bureh Beach at the south of the peninsular and River Number 2 Beach in the western part.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 21 - Freetown Peninsula (12th December 2021)
We will have a full day for optional activities on the wonderful beaches - we could go fishing, take a boat to explore the Banana Islands, get to know the local communities, and of course relax on the beautiful beaches!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 22 - Freetown (13th December 2021)
Today we will have a short drive up the western side of the Freetown Peninsular to arrive in the Aberdeen district of the city of Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 4
Day 23 - Freetown (14th December 2021)
Border information: if you are joining in Freetown, you will most likely enter Sierra Leone at Freetown Lungi International Airport (IATA code: FNA).
There will be an important group meeting at 10:00am at the joining hotel - please look out at the hotel reception for a note from your leader with more details about this important meeting. Your leader will collect your kitty and check your passport, visas, and insurance details at this meeting.
The afternoon will be free to explore Freetown and it's surroundings.
Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Freetown before the start of your trip with us - please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Freetown.
The fastest and most reliable way to Freetown from the airport is by water-taxi, as Lungi is across a bay from the city. The departure times for the water-taxis are linked to each flight in and out of the airport, so there will be transport available for you when you land. Exit the airport and walk to the right, and you'll see the water-taxi office at the end - you'll have to buy your ticket there for USD40 or EUR35, and check in your large bags. You'll take a minibus for 15 minutes, then the water-taxi for 30 minutes. The boat lands at the jetty, where you hand in your luggage ticket to get your large bags back.
The jetty is in the Aberdeen district of Freetown, only a 200m walk from our hotel. Just walk up the hill to the main road - the Raza Guesthouse is slightly further down and on the other side of the road.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 24 - Freetown Peninsula (15th December 2021)
Today we leave Freetown for the stunning beaches of Freetown Peninsula, where we will spend 3 nights.
There are a few different options for which beaches we could choose to visit, our favourites being Bureh Beach at the south of the peninsula and River Number 2 Beach in the western part.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 4
Day 25 - Freetown Peninsula (16th December 2021)
We will have 2 full days for optional activities on the wonderful beaches - we could go fishing, take a boat to explore the Banana Islands, get to know the local communities, and of course relax on the beautiful beaches!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 26 - Freetown Peninsula (17th December 2021)
Our final day on this beautiful beach we make the most of this time to relax before the journey continues.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 27 - Tiwai Island (18th December 2021)
Leaving the Freetown Peninsula behind, today we have a full day's drive through Sierra Leone to the Tiwai Island Sanctuary, one of Sierra Leone's largest inland islands.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Day 28 - Tiwai Island (19th December 2021)
Today, we will enjoy various nature walks through the web of trails that weave through the Tiwai forest. We'll be in search of the rare and colourful primates that inhabit the sanctuary, and if we're very lucky we may spot a very rare pygmy hippo!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 29 - Makeni (20th December 2021)
Over the next 2 days we will travel north up through Sierra Leone to the small town of Kabala. Kabala is famous for being an oasis of cool air in the hills of northern Sierra Leone, and for its traditional Ronko-dyed clothes - shirts or gowns made of strips of cloth, typically dyed a rusty reddish-brown using local pigments.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 30 - Kabala (21st December 2021)
Today we will reach Kabala and should have the afternoon free to wander the twon or climb the famous Gbawuria Hill.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 5
Day 31 - Faranah (22nd December 2021)
Border information: Exit Sierra Leone and enter Guinea at Gberia-Fotombu.
The next 2 days we will spend travelling through the remote border region between Sierra Leone and Guinea, driving through scenic areas very rarely visited by tourists and wild camping for a night en route. >
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 5
Day 32 - Faranah (23rd December 2021)
We will arrive at the small Guinean town of Faranah today.
The road conditions in this area can be pretty tough going and unpredictable, and progress can be greatly affected by the weather conditions, so flexibility is very important over these days.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
Day 33 - Gueckedou (24th December 2021)
Today we will travel through the central region of Guinea, stopping for a night in one of the towns en route (depending on how the drive goes, this may be Macenta or Guéckédou).
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 9
Day 34 - Nzekore (25th December 2021)
Today we will continue through the forested region of Guinea, visiting one of the famous vine bridges (Pont de Liana) en route. We will arrive at the small town of Nzerekoré in the heart of Guinea's Forest Region.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Day 35 - Nzekore (26th December 2021)
Today, we will have free time to explore the town, the nearby villages and the surrounding forests.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 36 - Western Côte d'Ivoire (27th December 2021)
Border information: Exit Guinea at Gbakoré, enter Côte d'Ivoire at Gbapleu.
The next 2 days are spent crossing the border and driving through central Côte d'Ivoire. These days take us through some very remote areas and some very poor quality dirt roads, so a great deal of flexibility is needed as our progress will largely be determined by the state of the roads.
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Day 37 - Western Côte d'Ivoire (28th December 2021)
Today we continue our journey through the wilds of Cote d'Ivoire. It is on days like this when you get to see just how untamed this area is and appreiciate how lucky you are to get a taste of life here.
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Day 38 - Korhogo (29th December 2021)
Today we will drive through the lush countryside to the northern Ivorian town of Korhogo, famed for the multitude of crafts that are made there.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Day 39 - Korhogo (30th December 2021)
Today, we will head out on an included tour around many of the handicraft workshops in the area, visiting painters, bead makers, wood carvers and cloth weavers. We will also have time to freely explore the town and its surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 40 - Yamoussoukro (31st December 2021)
Today we will drive to Yamoussoukro, the tiny and bizarre capital of Côte d'Ivoire. Yamoussoukro was the birthplace of Felix Houphouët-Boigny, the first president of independent Côte d'Ivoire, and is also the unusual location of the colossal and breathtaking Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, the largest Christian church in the world.
In the afternoon will have an included visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, and then have free time to further explore the small city.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
Day 41 - Grand Bassam (1st January 2022)
Today we will drive to the Atlantic coast, arriving at the old French colonial capital of Grand Bassam situated east of Abidjan.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 42 - Grand Bassam (2nd January 2022)
Today we will have free time to explore the old colonial town of Grand Bassam experiencing the sights, sounds and tastes of this amazing place.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 43 - Grand Bassam (3rd January 2022)
Today is a day to relax on the beautiful beaches around our hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 44 - Elmina (4th January 2022)
Border information: Exit Côte d'Ivoire at Elubo, enter Ghana at Elubo.
Today we cross into Ghana and then head east along the Atlantic coast to the beaches of Beru Akyinim near the historic town of Elmina.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 45 - Elmina (5th January 2022)
Today, we will get involved with community projects currently being run in the Elmina area by the SABRE Charitable Trust. The Trust does very valuable work in developing educational projects across Ghana, with a focus on providing early-years education - we have been visiting their projects and providing a day of help and a donation for many years, allowing us to give a little back and to experience a wonderful bit of community interaction. The exact experience will depend on what the Trust has a need for at the time, but we could be asked to help to paint a classroom, do a bit of gardening in one of the schools, or simply come and play some games with the children!
We will also have time for an optional visit to Elmina Castle and to relax on the beautiful beaches on Ghana's Atlantic Coast.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 46 - Kakum NP (6th January 2022)
Today we will head into the nearby town of Cape Coast for a fascinating and moving tour of the old slave fort there.
We will then drive inland to the rainforests of Kakum NP. On arrival we will head out on an included evening walk through the forests in search of wildlife, bugs and snakes! We may also have the chance to visit a small animal sancutary or stingless bee centre en route.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 47 - Kumasi (7th January 2022)
Today we have an early start with an included morning visit to the Kakum NP canopy walkways. These are a long series of hanging bridges at the forest canopy level that gives us a unique perspective of the rainforest - and at that time of the morning we will have the place to ourselves!
We will then journey north through Ghana's interior to the historic town of Kumasi.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 48 - Kumasi (8th January 2022)
Today, we will have lots of time for free exploration of the fascinating town and its museums. Kumasi is the home of West Africa's largest market and was the centre of the Ashanti Kingdom.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 49 - Accra (9th January 2022)
Today we will drive to Accra, the chaotic capital of Ghana! We will have free time on arrival to explore the city.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
Day 50 - Accra (10th January 2022)
Border information: if you are joining in Accra, then you will most likely enter Ghana at Accra Kotoka International Airport (IATA code: ACC).
There will be an important group meeting at 10:00am at the joining hotel - please look out at the hotel reception for a note from your leader with more details about this important meeting. Your leader will collect your kitty and check your passport, visas, and insurance details at this meeting.
The afternoon will be free to explore the city of Accra.
Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Accra before the start of your trip with us - please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Accra.
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Day 51 - Accra (11th January 2022)
Today we will apply for Togo visas at the Togolese Embassy in Accra.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Day 52 - Akosombo (12th January 2022)
This morning we will leave Accra and head north to the village of Akosombo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 4
Day 53 - Akosombo (13th January 2022)
Border information: Exit Ghana at Klouto, enter Togo at Klouto.
Today we will have a full day's drive to the spectacular Mont Klouto, crossing the border into Togo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
Day 54 - Mont Klouto (14th January 2022)
Today we will have a free day around the beautiful Mont Klouto region, with the opportunity to head out on optional forest walks or to visit Kpalimé town nearby.
In the evening, we will head to the village centre to see a spectacular show of drumming and dancing from the local villagers.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 55 - Mont Klouto (15th January 2022)
Over the next 2 days we will drive up the length of Togo, all the way through the remote northern border with Benin. We will wild camp for 1 night en route.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
Day 56 - Central Togo (16th January 2022)
Today we continue our drive through Togo after our wild camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
Day 57 - Togoville (17th January 2022)
This morning we will head to the beach while we are watingin for our visas to be processed. Time to relax before we head into Benin tomorrow!
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 58 - Grand Popo (18th January 2022)
Border information: Exit Togo at Ketao, enter Benin at Ouaké.
Today we will cross the border into Benin, before continuing our journey to the Tata Somba region close to the town of Tanguiéta.
Today we will have a free day at Grand Popo for relaxing on the beach or taking a pirogue trip around the nearby ocean and mangroves.
There is also an option this evening to visit an incredible local vodun (voodoo) ceremony in the nearby village, complete with very energetic dancing and incredible magic tricks! It may also be possible to take a night walk in search of Atlantic turtles, which lay their eggs on the beaches between November and March.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 59 - Pendjari NP (19th January 2022)
From the Tata Somba region we have a short journey north to the beautiful Pendjari NP.
We will stay for two nights wild camping in the NP, where we will have freedom to explore and head out on game drives in the truck in search of wildlife.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 60 - Pendjari NP (20th January 2022)
Today we have the entire day to enjoy this national park. One of the only places left in West Africa where wildlife continues to thrive. A lot of work is put into maintaining this park by African Parks who are resposible for many of the lesser known national parks in Africa.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 3
Day 61 - Abomey (21st January 2022)
Our journey today continues to Abomey, the ancient capital of the Dahomey kingdom. On arrival we will take an included tour of the Dahomey Palace and Museum.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
Day 62 - Abomey (22nd January 2022)
Today we have a free day in Abomey to relax and prepare for the rest of our journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 63 - Grand Popo (23rd January 2022)
We will drive from Abomey to Grand Popo today and enjoy some well deserved time at the beach.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 4
Day 64 - Grand Popo (24th January 2022)
Free day in Grand Popo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 65 - Ouidah (25th January 2022)
Today we will take a very interesting half-day tour of the sites in Ouidah, including the Voodoo Python Temple, the "Route des Esclaves" (Slave Route), La Maison du Brésil art gallery and the Ouidah Museum of History in the old Portuguese Fort of São João Baptista de Ajudá.
We may hopefully see many of the local fishermen bringing their catch in.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 1
Day 66 - Ganvie (26th January 2022)
This morning we will drive to Abomey-Calavi (a port on the outskirts of Cotonou), where we say goodbye to the truck for the night and jump aboard motorised pirogues to Ganvie, a fascinating town built entirely on stilts in the middle of Lake Nokoué.
Today we will have an included tour of the stilt town of Ganvie, exploring deeper on our pirogues and soaking up the unique way of life in the floating village.
In Ganvie we will stay in the stilt village itself!
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 2
Day 67 - Nigeria (27th January 2022)
Today is where our true adventure begins! We will be making our way through the next 6 countries without a fixed itinerary. We will be keeping a close eye on the travel advice for each area that we head towards. This starts with the next 8 days through Nigeria. Some of the highlights we may experience include the impressive Usman Dam, Abuja National Mosque, Lekki Market and the beautiful Yankari NP.
We will be wild camping for the majority of this trip from now on, experiencing the true life and culture of the towns and villages we stop in.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 68 - Nigeria (28th January 2022)
Exploring Nigeria
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 69 - Nigeria (29th January 2022)
Exploring Nigeria
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 70 - Nigeria (30th January 2022)
Exploring Nigeria
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 71 - Nigeria (31st January 2022)
Exploring Nigeria
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 72 - Nigeria (1st February 2022)
Exploring Nigeria
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 73 - Nigeria (2nd February 2022)
Exploring Nigeria
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 74 - Nigeria (3rd February 2022)
Exploring Nigeria
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 75 - Nigeria (4th February 2022)
Exploring Nigeria
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 76 - Cameroon (5th February 2022)
Now we will head out of Nigeria into Cameroon. We have allocated another 8 days here. We may have the chance to apply for some visas during our time in Cameroon.
Highlights of the country include Douala with its bustling shopping and nightlife as well as Yaounde which is where we will find the National Museum. There will be opportunities to relax by the beach as well as spend time in the foothills of Mount Cameroon which is one of Africa's biggest volcanoes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 77 - Cameroon (6th February 2022)
Exploring Cameroon
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 78 - Cameroon (7th February 2022)
Exploring Cameroon
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 79 - Cameroon (8th February 2022)
Exploring Cameroon
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 80 - Cameroon (9th February 2022)
Exploring Cameroon
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 81 - Cameroon (10th February 2022)
Exploring Cameroon
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 82 - Cameroon (11th February 2022)
Exploring Cameroon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 83 - Cameroon (12th February 2022)
Exploring Cameroon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 84 - Cameroon (13th February 2022)
Exploring Cameroon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 85 - Gabon (14th February 2022)
We now pass into our next destination, Gabon. We will spend 6 days travelling through this vibrant country. This is the point where the tarmac runs out, we will be getting used to dirt roads from now on!
There may be options for time on safari here as much of Gabon is rainforest. This could be in Lambarene or Loango NP which are barely inhabited by people and the wildlife is protected. There are also many Bwiti rituals in these areas.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 86 - Gabon (15th February 2022)
Exploring Gabon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 87 - Gabon (16th February 2022)
Exploring Gabon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 88 - Gabon (17th February 2022)
Exploring Gabon
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 89 - Gabon (18th February 2022)
Exploring Gabon
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 90 - Gabon (19th February 2022)
Exploring Gabon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 91 - Republic of the Congo (20th February 2022)
Now onto 8 days in the Republic of the Congo. This is where we really prepare for the unexpected! Digging out the truck, huge potholes and overgrown passages can make this country feel truly wild. We will only pass through this country with the whole team working together.
The people in this country are renound for their hospitable welcomes and we will find smiling faces wherever we go, from Nouabalé-Ndoki NP (home to Gorilla's), to Pointe-Noire (where the beaches are renound) we will be greeted with open arms.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 92 - Republic of the Congo (21st February 2022)
Exploring the Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 93 - Republic of the Congo (22nd February 2022)
Exploring the Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 94 - Republic of the Congo (23rd February 2022)
Exploring the Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 95 - Republic of the Congo (24th February 2022)
Exploring the Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 96 - Republic of the Congo (25th February 2022)
Exploring the Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 97 - Republic of the Congo (26th February 2022)
Exploring the Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 98 - Republic of the Congo (27th February 2022)
Exploring the Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 99 - Republic of the Congo (28th February 2022)
Exploring the Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 100 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (1st March 2022)
We will be passing through a small portion of the Democratic Republic of the Congo as we make our way to Angola. Here we have the option of travelling West and visiting Kinshasa or, if it is in our best interests to do so, we can visit the enclave of Cabina, which is part of Angola.
We should be able to view the Crystal Mountains range and have the option to climb Mont Mangengenge, a pilgrimage site for local people. You will probably be overtaken by the Congolese praying step by step as they ascend. The DRC is also home to the only Bonobo sanctuary in the world, definitely worth a visit!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 101 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (2nd March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 102 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (3rd March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 103 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (4th March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 104 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (5th March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 105 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (6th March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 106 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (7th March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 107 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (8th March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 108 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (9th March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 109 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (10th March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 110 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (11th March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 111 - Democratic Republic of the Congo (12th March 2022)
Exploring the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 112 - Angola (13th March 2022)
Our final country with no fixed itinerary is Angola. This is a country that is still making it's way back from years of civil war. Due to this tourists are not seen very regularly, in fact, we may be the first tourists to travel through some villages. We also have the chance to test out our Portuguese here.
Close to where we enter the country is Turtle Beach where endangered Olive Ridley Turtles hatch through September to March. The National Museum of Slavery near Lobito is a stark reminder of Angolas past. Other highlights include Kalandula Falls and Quicama NP.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 113 - Angola (14th March 2022)
Exploring Angola
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 114 - Angola (15th March 2022)
Exploring Angola
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 115 - Angola (16th March 2022)
Exploring Angola
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 116 - Angola (17th March 2022)
Exploring Angola
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 117 - Angola (18th March 2022)
Exploring Angola
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 118 - Angola (19th March 2022)
Exploring Angola
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 119 - Angola (20th March 2022)
Exploring Angola
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 120 - Angola (21st March 2022)
Exploring Angola
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Day 121 - Etosha NP (22nd March 2022)
Today we head to the stunning Etosha NP.
Etosha is one of the world's most pre-eminent wildlife areas, and we have an excellent chance to spot some of Africa's most famous animals such as elephant, lion, giraffe, zebra, leopard, oryx, impala, and rhino!
We will stay in the park for 2 days, giving us plenty of opportunity for game drives in our truck in search of the animals here.
In Etosha NP we will stay in a mixture of the campsites of Namutoni, Halali or Okaukuejo according to availability, all of which are superbly located within the NP, have excellent facilities and are situated next to watering holes where many animals come for a drink at night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 5
Day 122 - Etosha NP (23rd March 2022)
Full day in Etosha National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 5
Day 123 - Windhoek (24th March 2022)
Today we drive to Windhoek.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
Day 124 - Spitzkoppe (25th March 2022)
Today we will drive south to the stunning mountains of Spitzkoppe. This remote region has breathtaking sunsets and sunrises as the colour of the landscape takes on remarkable oranges and reds.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping without facilities
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 7
Day 125 - Swakopmund (26th March 2022)
Today we will continue to the old German colonial town of Swakopmund, where we will have 2 nights to explore the town and enjoy some of the many optional adventure activities on offer.
We will also have an included visit to Cape Cross en route from Spitzkoppe, to experience the sight, sound and smell of thousands of olive-coloured seals on the shore.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
Day 126 - Swakopmund (27th March 2022)
Free day in Swakopmund.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Day 127 - Sesriem (28th March 2022)
Today we will drive from Swakopmund to Sesriem, our base for exploring the spectacular Namib Desert. If time allows, en route we will have the option to take a short walking tour of the desert around Solitaire where we can learn all about the ecosystem of the desert - please note that our time available for this is dependent on the time of the sunset, as they close the gates to our Sesriem campsite at sunset.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 10
Day 128 - Bethanie (29th March 2022)
Today we have an early morning start to climb to the top of the famous Dune 45 for a dramatic and incredible sunrise view across a vast sea of sand. We will also have chance to explore the otherworldy landscape of the Dead Vlei. In the afternoon, we head south to our river camp near the small town of Bethanie.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
Day 129 - Fish River Canyon (30th March 2022)
Today we head south to the dramatic scenery of the Fish River Canyon. Here we will have some time for exploration and taking in the beautiful sunset over the canyon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 8
Day 130 - Noordoewer (31st March 2022)
This morning we will drive to Noordoewer, next to the scenic banks of the Gariep (Orange) River - the natural border between Namibia and South Africa. If there is sufficient water in the river we may be able to take an optional canoeing tour on the Orange River.
NB: If we have arrived late the previous day, the Tour Leader may opt to spend more time at Fish River Canyon before driving to Noordoewer.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 5
Day 131 - Citrusdal (1st April 2022)
Border Information: Exit Namibia at Noordoewer, enter South Africa at Noordoewer.
Today we cross the border into South Africa and head down the Western Cape to camp site near Citrusdal. In the evening we will have the option for some wine tasting!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 9
Day 132 - Cape Town (2nd April 2022)
Our final day takes us down the Western Cape to the charming and beautiful city of Cape Town.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Today's approximate drive time (hrs): 6
Day 133 - Cape Town (3rd April 2022)
This evening you will have the opportunity to enjoy a final group meal to say goodbye to your fellow travellers after what is certainly the journey of a lifetime.
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