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Togo and Benin, often overshadowed by their larger West African neighbors, present themselves as intriguing and culturally rich travel destinations for the adventurous spirit. These neighboring countries, sharing historical ties and vibrant traditions, offer a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and authentic cultural experiences. From the bustling markets and voodoo heritage of Benin to the diverse landscapes and warm hospitality of Togo, both nations promise an off-the-beaten-path journey filled with discovery and unforgettable encounters.
Travelling through Togo and Benin doesn't take long as they are only 50 miles wide. Voodoo is the main religion here, basing its beliefs in the power of the dead. You can visit an interesting fetish market, take a boat ride on lake Togo to Togoville, as well as sample good African restaurants in Lome, the capital
During our crossing of Benin we pass Ouidah, on the Atlantic coast. Once a port for the slave trade, the ‘Door of No Return’ is a memorial to those who boarded slave ships, never to return. Next we head towards Cotonou and can take local canoes out to Ganvie village, built on bamboo stilts on Lake Nakoue.
Oasis Overland Trips that include Togo and Benin
We travel through southern Togo and Benin on our Trans Africa expeditions that journey from Fes to Accra and Cape Town and vice versa:
CAPE TOWN TO FES (23 WEEKS) TRANS AFRICA
This is an Exploratory trip doing our classic Fes to Cape Town route in reverse, heading northbound instead. The itinerary is therefore flexible. This will take account of road conditions in some parts where there will be rains and plenty of mud, and of where we can apply for necessary visas en-route. Expect good weather and conditions at southern & northern ends, with poorer weather and bad roads nearer the Equator. Embarking on this expedition will give you an insight into the varied cultures of West and Central Africa and all the challenges this vast continent can throw at you. There will be days when it will be pretty tough - bad roads, harsh terrains and extremes of climates, but you will also get to experience, see and discover a continent most travellers only dream of - whilst having the experience of a lifetime!
FES TO CAIRO (47 WEEKS) TRANS AFRICA
This epic expedition through Africa encompasses all the incredible landscapes, culture & wildlife you could imagine. From the harshness of the Sahara desert, the dense jungles of central Africa and the amazing wildlife of East Africa, the varied landscapes and cultures that make up this continent will leave an indelible mark on you forever. There will be times when it will be extremely tough - harsh terrains, bad roads and extremes of weather, but it will all be worth it! You will discover a continent most travellers only dream of - whilst having the experience of a lifetime!