Expedition Africa: Wildlife & Cultural Discovery (Tema to Dakar)

The largest seaport in Ghana, Tema boasts an inner and outer fishing harbor, the former known as the Canoe Basin and built to encourage the local fishing practice; the latter designed for the commercial fishing industry. But some of the most fascinating sites are located further along the coastline, where you’ll find UNESCO-listed forts and castles remaining from the Portuguese trade between the 15th and 18th centuries.

The largest seaport in Ghana, Tema boasts an inner and outer fishing harbor, the former known as the Canoe Basin and built to encourage the local fishing practice; the latter designed for the commercial fishing industry. But some of the most fascinating sites are located further along the coastline, where you’ll find UNESCO-listed forts and castles remaining from the Portuguese trade between the 15th and 18th centuries.

The Kakum National Park is an astounding virgin rainforest habitat for hundreds of species of birds, butterflies, mammals and fauna, and your visit to the deep-sea port of Takoradi – or Taadi – can lead you there. Exploring this natural heaven is its own adventure, as you traverse suspension bridges strung from treetops nearly 100 feet high, though the sights (and sounds) of the resident animals will keep you looking outward rather than down.

Along stunning beaches, palm trees stretch to the heavens, while inland, it’s modern marvels that scrape the sky. More balance than contrast, Abidjan is a tropical paradise that is embracing economic progress and modernization, and at the same time preserving the natural treasures at its core. The Parc National de Taï is a wildlife haven of lush trees, and the UNESCO-listed Historic Town of Grand-Bassam, the first capital of the Côte d'Ivoire, is a delightful colonial throwback.

Monrovia has had several identities over its approximately two centuries on the modern map, from a coastal town caught in the crossfire of war and settlement for emancipated slaves to a party haven and land of opportunity for entrepreneurs. Today, the Liberian capital is a blend of its past and present, with a bright future. The Liberian National Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into all phases of Monrovia and the country, connecting points of history – and people – to the proud culture.

Founded in 1792 as a haven for free-born and freed American slaves, Freetown is now a diverse mixture of international cultures. The town is a thriving harbor city built around a historic cotton tree, which symbolizes emancipation and can be used as a kind of GPS to orient oneself to Freetown’s main attractions. The Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary outside of town represents another part of the region’s spirit, connecting people with the forests and the animals who live there.

Home to one of the most spectacular beaches in the region, Tokeh is a small coastal village with hugely dramatic vistas. Tokeh Beach stretches far along the coast lapped by calm sea waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunning. Fresh-caught seafood, sweet local spirits and a backdrop of forest-covered mountains complete the exotic setting for your immersion into the Sierra Leonean rural lifestyle.

Tucked on beach-fringed St. Mary's Island, where the mouth of the Gambia River meets the Atlantic, is Banjul, Gambia's tiny capital city. Banjul is the country's commercial and transportation hub, though it retains a rustic charm. For a taste of local life, browse the Albert Market, lined with colorful craft stalls, or visit the Gambia National Museum, home to historical and cultural artifacts. Also worth a look is the Makasutu Culture Forest and its wildlife-rich mangrove wetlands.

Take a look into the city known as "West Africa’s Window to the Western World," where architectural vestiges of its French rule are still on display, and peaceful islands beckon offshore of beautiful beaches. Dakar’s once tumultuous past is now revived with a brimming cultural scene, full of diverse markets and art galleries.

Day 26 Dakar, Senegal (1B,1L):Our final port of call is Dakar, Senegal; a bustling and energetic West African capital. We’ll visit the infamous slave-trading post of Gorée Island and learn about the history of the region and its importance to the slave trade. The tour includes visits to the dungeons and slave quarters, the traders’ opulent homes, the House of Slaves and Le Castel, offering a fascinating look into this dark time. We’ll also visit the IFAN Historical Museum to learn more about the history of Senegal. After lunch, we’ll explore Dakar’s incredible markets, Great Mosque and colonial architecture before checking into a hotel for our final night on the continent.