West Africa occupies approximately 20% of Africa. Unfortunately, West Africa does not receive as many tourists as other parts of the continent, although this is starting to change. West Africa has a strong musical tradition. The Djembe drum is widely used throughout all of West Africa. If you are lucky enough to see a local festival you will be mightily entertained with the music, drumming, and festivities. Christianity is the predominant religion in coastal areas, Islam is predominant in the interior areas. West Africa terrain transitions from Sahel (a middle zone between the Sahara desert and the savannah) to savannah to tropical rainforest.

The countries in West Africa include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Cape Verde, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo

Round Trip One Way Multi-City

* Departing From: * Going To: Leave On:  Return On:     Any Morning Afternoon Evening    Any Morning Afternoon Evening * Departing From: * Going To: Leave On:     Any Morning Afternoon Evening * Departing From: * Going To: Leave On:     Any Morning Afternoon Evening * Departing From: * Going To: Leave On:     Any Morning Afternoon Evening Add / Remove Airport/City (Maximum of 4 airport/city combinations) Adt:(12+) Chd:(2-11) Inf:(0-1) Cabin Preference: 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 1 2 3 4 5 Economy First Business

BURKINA FASO
Burkina Faso does not have a large tourism industry; however it is very safe. The population is very friendly. Ouagadougou, the capital, was the capital of the Mossi kingdom prior to conquest by the French. The Ethnography Museum contains a large collection of Mossi artifacts. See the the Moro-Naba ceremony at the Moro-Naba Palace , a historical reenactment. Burkinians see themselves as friendly people. Don't forget to greet every person you see or you will be seen as a cold and rude person.

CAMEROON
Cameroon is called 'Africa in miniature' due to its wide variety of terrain, climate, and culture. Cameroon's terrain includes the Sahara desert, grasslands, nature reserves, and the tallest mountain in Western Africa. Places to visit include Limbe (formerly Victoria), a small jungle village with dazzling beaches nearby. Also visit Yaounde, the capital, with its monasteries, museums, and markets. Hike Mt. Cameroon, (a 3-4 day trip). Also visit a rubber or cocoa plantation.

THE GAMBIA
The Gambia is a popular destination for ecotourists as a birdwatchers paradise. Abuko National Reserve has over 300 species of birds. Two world class locations for bird watching are the Bao Bolon Wetland Reserve and the Tanbi Wetlands. Try shopping for wood carvings, masks, and African drums. Scams and bribery abounds in Gambia. Be careful. Locals expect to be compensated even for appearing in a picture. The police may expect bribes.

GHANA
Ghana has many national parks and reserves suitable for safaris. Tourism in Ghana is increasing due to the Ghanaians friendly, welcoming attitude to all. Kakum National Park is a must see for eco tourists. Visit this pristine rainforest using the famous canopy walk. Birders should visit the Owabi Forest Reserve and Bird Sanctuary. When in Accra visit Independence Square, Independence Arch, the National Museum, and the National Theatre (a Chinese masterpiece). Hiking through the savannah and rainforest is available at Bia National Forest, Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary, or Mole Game Reserve. Horseback riding is available at Shai Hills Game Reserve. Ghana has incredible white sandy beaches. Try any of the many beaches including Coco Beach Resort, Dixcove, Labadi Pleasure Beach, and Busua. Not to be missed is the UNESCO world heritage site of the Cape Coast castle, a slave castle.