Table of Contents
West Africa is blessed with the bouquets of nature and the delights of the past. You have something unique to savour here at every step. Roam around and explore the most serene, untapped regions of Africa. Whether it is the sky-touching mountains or the never-ending grasslands or the diverse wildlife that nurtures in the deepest woods, West Africa has the best of nature’s miracles. Let us explore the most exotic things to do when in West Africa.
Top Things To Do In West Africa
1. Imbibe the Colours of Victoria Island in Lagos
Victoria Island is an amazing place in Nigeria and this goes without saying that it is quite affluent and blessed with a modern landscape as the major financial center in Lagos. Take a look at high-rise buildings or enjoy the vast extensive views of the sea. Enjoy the sands and the sun of the beaches here. Stay at a luxurious resort and enjoy all the modern amenities. Victoria Island also has great places for shopping and eating. So, dine out, go on a date, shop your hearts out, relax by the beach and do a lot more!
Entry fee: No entrance fee
Timings: Anytime
Pro Tip: If you have a strong interest in local art and craft, then visit the Lekki Market for some great purchases!
2. Explore The Colourful Streets Of Santa Maria in Cape Verde
A wonderful locality on the wondrous island of Sal, Santa Maria is the perfect holiday destination in the sea. It has beaches, luxury resorts, shopping venues and everything else a tourist looks forward to. But, the vibrant streets of Santa Maria make it an exceptional settlement. Take a stroll through these colourful streets, witness the local culture of Cape Verde coming alive through wall paintings and roadside shops.
Average Price: Free of cost
Timings: Anytime
Pro Tip: You will also find several men selling really great artworks in the streets near the Church of the Nazarene.
3. Explore Koutammakou in Togo
Nestled in the Tamberma Valley, Koutammakou must be on the top of your bucket list while exploring the beauty of Togo. The place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is recognised for its traditional mud-houses that depict the ancient lifestyle and culture of the country. Visit this historic and architecturally-significant beauty and frame its old-world charm.
Price Range: $3 – $4 per person
Timings: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
Pro Tip: You do not need to plan an entire day here as 2 hours are enough to explore the place.
4. Absorb the Charm of Aneho
Aneho is a land of wonders in the beautiful expanse of Togo. The place is known for its serene beaches nurturing a calm and peaceful environment. Break free from the bustle of Lome and escape to this ravishing location to rejuvenate yourself. Watch beautiful waves, admire the hues of dawn and dusk and spend your day lazing in a tranquil atmosphere.
Price: No Entrance Fee
Timings: Anytime
5. Take A Deep Sea Submarine Tour in the Waters of Cape Verde
Do not miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure while in Cape Verde. A tour down the sea waves deep into the ocean is thrilling and exciting. And what if you get to see old statues and ship wreckages lying on the sea bed along with exploring marine life? That would be cherry on top. So, do not forget to come to Santa Maria and gain this enriching experience.
Average Price: $20 – $30
Timings: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm
Pro Tip: If you suffer from sea sickness, do not forget to take pills. Otherwise, your trip could be a bad memory.
6. Take a Tour of Kakum National Park in Ghana
Witness the richly diverse wildlife of Ghana at Kakum National Park. Spread over an area of about 375 sq km, the national park offers numerous hiking and lodging opportunities. The place also makes for a great destination for campers, bird watchers, and photographers. From exotic to indigenous and rare to endangered, there are thousands of species of plants and animals to look forward to.
Price: $4.33 for adults
$2 for students
Timings: 06:00 am to 04:00 pm
Pro Tip: Walking is the best way to explore the natural beauty of the national park; however, we advise you to keep a local guide along.
7. Hike Up the Mount Afadja of Ghana
The highest point in Ghana, Mount Afadja is every mountaineer’s dream destination in the country. Standing at an elevation of about 885 meters, Mount Afadja is located near the border of Togo. Apart from climbing up the mountain and conquering its summit, you can also indulge in exploring nearby caves and waterfalls. Yes, the place is quite serene and houses numerous streams and other natural attractions.
Price: No Entrance Fee
Timings: Anytime
Pro Tip: Spend a night there and enjoy the starry sky to understand how beautiful Mount Afadja is.
8. Take a Break at Bubaque Island in Guinea-Bissau
Bubaque Island has to be on the top of your list if you are looking forward to savouring a perfect mix of modernity and nature. The island is blessed with rich wildlife. Take a boat from the port area of Bubaque and explore around in its waters. Visit its forested region and feel the essence of tranquillity. The island also has an amazing museum where you get to witness great artistry on display. You can also buy wonderful art and craft products here.
Entry fee: No entrance fee
($1.8 – $2.0 for the museum)
Timings: Anytime
(10:00 am to 04:00 pm for the museum)
Pro Tip: Do try kayaking here. You can rent a kayak for about $25 per hour!
9. Visit the Kpalime City of Togo
Kpalime is filled with natural beauties. You have got great streams to relish and lush greenery to enjoy. It is located near the border of Ghana and has an interesting history to explore. Apart from waterfalls, hills, green fields and coffee and cocoa plantations, the major attractions here are Holy Spirit Cathedral, German Cemetery, Governor’s House, Chateau Vial and more.
Entry Fee: No entrance fee
Timings: Anytime
10. Explore the Fazao-Malfakassa National Park
The largest national park and one of the major tourist attractions in Togo, Fazao-Malfakassa National Park is an amazing place to witness the richness of Togo. The park is filled with rare species of plants, animals and birds. The park is also known for harbouring dramatic landscape with soothing waterfalls and towering hills. Do visit it if you desire for a dose of adventure.
Average Price: $7 (Approximate figure)
Best Timings: 06:00 am to 05:30 pm
Also Explore: 25+ Incredible & Hidden Things to Do in Ghana
11. Swim With The Sharks in Cape Verde
Sharks are considered dangerous species and no human in all his senses would dare to go close to them. But the beautiful island country of Cape Verde provides you with an opportunity to do so, that too without harming yourself. It is because the sharks of Sal are vegetarian. Yes, you read that right. Here, sharks won’t harm you as they completely rely on plants and grass for their food. Hence, they wouldn’t mind swimming with you. So, how about being on selfie mode under the sea?
Average Price: $10 – $15
Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm
Pro Tip: It is better to hire a local guide. They know exactly where and when you can spot whales.
12. Learn Indigenous Culture of Cape Verde
The indigenous culture of this archipelago consists of values from European colonizers and African tribes. And the culture cannot be learned, it can only be understood. Hence, whatever you do to study the centuries-old culture of Cape Verde, nothing can beat the method of mingling with locals and staying with them. It helps in getting acquainted with their customs and traditions easily. This way you would be able to understand their art, music, language and literature within a minimal timeframe.
Average Price: Free of cost (Approx $20-$25 for hiring a guide)
Timings: Anytime
Pro Tip: If you can manage, try staying with the locals to learn about their culture easily.
13. Visit the Beautiful City of Bissau
The capital city of Guinea-Bissau, Bissau is every backpacker’s first destination in the country. Hence, it is impossible to ignore it and move ahead with other places. The city lets you explore great modern architecture, peaceful gardens and parks and an amazing street crowd for photography. The presence of the Geba River makes Bissau a more charming place to spend a weekend. The Port of Bissau is another attraction here for travellers.
Entry fee: No entrance fee
Timings: Anytime
14. Revel in the Delights of Accra
The capital city of Ghana, Accra must be on the top of your bucket list for the city has in store innumerable sights to behold. The city shares the beauty of the history, art and culture of the country. Hence, it deserves to be every traveller’s priority. Sip on your favourite drink by the Labadi Beach or admire the wonderful exhibits of the National Museum of Ghana. Nkrumah Memorial Park, Osu Castle, Bojo Beach and Jamestown Lighthouse are the other major places to visit in Accra.
Average Cost: $20 – $30 including entrance to different attractions
Timings: Anytime
Pro Tip: While biking around on the outskirts of Accra, mind the open as well as closed gutters!
15. Enjoy by the Great Lake Volta
If you are looking for some peaceful time in the midst of a tranquil atmosphere, then visit Lake Volta. It is the largest artificial reservoir in the world and is surrounded by lush greenery. Come here and get lost in the silence of nature or just simply laze by the dazzling waters as you feel the cool breeze passing by. Revitalize your soul and breathe a new life into your body while admiring its charm.
Price: No Entrance Fee
Timings: Anytime
Also Explore: 25 Incredible Things To Do In Cape Verde, Africa
16. Watch the Marvels of Sokode
One of the largest cities in Togo, Sokode is another place that would make for a wonderful weekend excursion. Visit it and explore its liveliness spread across rugged streets and urban settlements. The city has numerous beautiful attractions to savour. The list includes Sokode Mosque, Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa, and more.
Average Cost: $15 – $20 per day per person
Timings: Anytime
17. Explore the Richness of Orango National Park
Orango National Park is the pride of Guinea-Bissau for the kinds of natural beauties it boasts of. Spread over an area of more than 1500 sq km, the national park is home to hundreds of indigenous species of plants and animals. Explore its wetland that includes a rainforest and swamp mangroves. Take great pictures of endangered birds like African gray parrots and more. Orango National Park is every wildlife photographer’s ultimate destination in Guinea-Bissau.
Price: $15 – $20 per person including the fee of a local guide
Ideal Timings: 07:00 am to 05:00 pm
Pro Tip: To spot the African gray parrot, visit the savanna shrubs and shores of the national park.
18. Partake in the Vibrant Voodoo Festival
This is the day that marks the beginning of the New Year in Togo. However, the kind of traditions the festival celebrates are show-stealers. The sacred stone that predicts the destiny of the coming year is the major attraction here. The colour of the stone indicates the fortune of the village. The white colour stands for luck, while the black represents famine and flood. Blue means good harvests and red stands for war.
Price: No entrance fee
Time: September
Pro Tip: Visit Glidji Village for the best celebrations.
19. Explore the Archaeological Sites of Mount Hombori
At about 1555 metres, Mount Hombori is the highest point in Mali and is known for its archaeological sites that include caves from more than 2000 years ago. It is the place where one can trace the development of humans of over centuries and it is here you get to witness the lifestyle of early humans. The place is equally rich with flora and fauna and is home to a number of wild yet beautiful species of plants and trees. One can also spot Olive baboons and rock hyrax here. No doubt it is one of the best places in West Africa.
Average Cost: $10 – $15 including a guide
Ideal Timings: 06:00 am to 05:00 pm
20. Take a Tour of Kumasi
Another metropolitan area of Ghana, Kumasi is a significant center of trade, politics, history and culture. That’s one of the reasons the city remains one of the most explored places in Ghana. For being set in the close proximity of the beautiful Lake Bosomtwe, it makes for a great weekend escape for picnickers and photographers. Learn about the history of Asante at Manhiya Palace Museum. Spot diverse wildlife at Kumasi Zoo. Armed Forces Museum and Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary are other places to visit in Kumasi.
Average price: $20 – $25 per person per day including entry to different attractions
Timings: Anytime
Pro Tip: Do visit the Kejetia Market that has over 1200 stalls if you are really into shopping and buying souvenirs.
21. Crash the Rubane Island
How about a day trip to a place where you get to savour the pure nature? Rubane Island is one place where you have got shimmering waters of the sea, calmness, rich greenery and a sunny atmosphere. Well, that’s all one would need to make their trip memorable. Rubane Island is one of the largest in Guinea-Bissau and hosts a great environment to relax and detox.
Entry fee: No entrance fee
Timings: Anytime
Also Explore: 21 Coolest & Unusual Things to do in Nigeria
