Guide To The Best Destination In Every Country In West Africa

When it comes to Africa, West Africa is like the continent’s hidden treasure chest waiting to be discovered. Sure, it might not be as famous as some other places, and it has had its share of challenges like wars, corruption, and not-so-great tourist facilities. But here’s the cool part – that’s what makes it an awesome destination for adventurous souls like you!

Now, let’s talk about the best spots to visit in each West African country. These are the places where you’ll find unique experiences, rich cultures, and incredible adventures. So, get ready to dive into the heart of West Africa, and who knows, you might just uncover some of the most unforgettable travel memories!

Benin – Voodoo Market

Discovering Benin is like embarking on a mystical journey into the heart of voodoo, which happens to be the country’s main religion. It might sound a bit wild, but did you know that voodoo is one of the oldest religions in the world? It’s not just any religion; it’s incredibly intricate and fascinating. Now, here’s the cool part – within this captivating belief system, there’s a crucial element known as Voodoo fetishes. These are like magical talismans with extraordinary powers.

And guess what? Benin is famous for its voodoo markets, also known as fetish markets (you might find similar ones in Togo). These markets are a big deal here, and they’re the place to be if you want to get your hands on some extraordinary stuff. We’re talking about everything from intricately carved wooden treasures to clay figurines, and even animal parts like bones, tails, and paws. It might sound a bit unusual, but visiting these markets is an absolute must when you’re in Benin. It’s a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else!

Ranking: 13/16 (is the 13th best destination in West Africa)

Burkina Faso – Tiebele

Tiébélé, the charming little town tucked away in West Africa, is an absolute gem of a destination. What sets it apart from anywhere else on Earth? Well, it’s all about the way it’s designed. Picture this: a real-life labyrinth created by the intricate weaving of houses, all adorned with striking crimson patterns. But here’s the coolest part – the way these houses are constructed is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

It’s a true collaborative effort, where both men and women play essential roles. The men take charge of shaping the earthen, muddy, and straw barriers that form the foundation of these unique structures. And then, it’s the talented women who step in to work their magic, transforming the walls into stunning works of art with their decorative skills. This harmony between men and women, the intricate patterns, and the overall design make Tiébélé a place like no other. It’s a destination that’s not just fascinating but also beautifully unique in its own special way!

Ranking: 5/16 (is the 5th best destination in West Africa)

Niger – Agadez

Tucked away in the heart of West Africa is Niger, a country that doesn’t always make it onto travelers’ lists. It’s one of the poorest and least explored nations in the region, but guess what? That’s precisely what makes it a dream come true for adventurers like you! Let me introduce you to Agadez, a town that’s like something out of a time capsule.

Picture this: a sprawling Saharan town boasting a magnificent Sudanese-style mosque that’s sure to leave you in awe. But there’s more to Agadez than meets the eye. It’s renowned as the gateway to the vast desert, and it plays a pivotal role in the journey of sub-Saharan migrants traveling from Libya to Sabha.

Ranking: 12/16 (is the 8th best destination in West Africa)

Mali – Timbuktu

Timbuktu takes the crown as the most fascinating destination on this list. But, here’s the twist – it’s also one of the trickiest places to visit right now because of the ongoing troubles in Mali. Imagine this: Timbuktu is this quaint little village with low, sandy-colored mud houses, nestled right in the heart of the Sahara Desert. It’s like a piece of art that blends seamlessly with its desert surroundings. And most of the folks who call this place home are Tuareg, those legendary desert nomads you’ve probably heard tales about.

Now, let me tell you why Timbuktu is a mecca for travelers like you. It’s like stepping into a treasure trove of awe-inspiring historic sites. Picture this: a grand mosque that’s been standing tall in the old medina for ages, the center of manuscripts that holds a wealth of knowledge, a 16th-century university mosque that’s like a living history book, and the house of Alexander Gordon Laing, who made history as the very first European to set foot in Timbuktu.

Ranking: 1/16 (is the best destination in West Africa)

Ghana – Elmina

Let me tell you about one of the friendliest and most traveler-welcoming countries in all of West Africa: Ghana. It’s a place where navigating your way around is a breeze, and the tourism setup is just spot-on. Now, nestled in this beautiful country is the charming town of Elmina, and boy, is it a gem! Elmina is super famous for its castles, and they’re not just any castles; they’re right there on the coastline, adding a touch of magic to the sea breeze.

Now, picture this: St. George’s Castle. This place isn’t just any old castle; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We often don’t think of Africa as a historical hotspot, but guess what? There’s so much history to uncover! Elmina’s got a ton of colonial history still standing tall. But wait, there’s more! The town isn’t just about history; it’s a full-on adventure. You’ve got this bustling fishing port where you can see the local life in full swing, and oh, the seafood! Trust me; the seafood restaurants by the coast are a total treat for your taste buds.

Ranking: 9/16 (is the 9th best destination in West Africa)

Togo – Koutammakou

This spot is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before because it’s home to the Batammariba people and their extraordinary mud houses called “takienta.” Picture this: houses entirely crafted from mud, shaped like squares, and the coolest part? They come with towers that make them look like mini castles! And here’s the kicker – they have just one entrance, giving them a super unique vibe.

Guess what? This whole place got the thumbs-up from UNESCO, earning the title of a World Heritage Site back in 2004. And the best part? You can totally visit it! The locals are super welcoming and are all set to show you around.

Ranking: 6/16 (is the 6th best destination in West Africa)

The Gambia – Banjul

Banjul is like the cherry on top of your African adventure. It’s bursting with culture and history that will make your trip even more awesome. Get ready to explore places like the National Assembly, a bit like their version of our Parliament. Then there’s the Arc de Triomphe – it’s like a mini version of the famous one in Paris! And don’t miss the National Museum, where you can discover the country’s fascinating past. If shopping is your thing, Albert Market is the place to be.

Ranking: 15/16 (is the 15th best destination in West Africa)

Cape Verde – Fogo

This volcano lives on an island called Fogo, and it’s so massive that in some parts of the island, you can’t even see it because it’s hiding inside a huge crater with walls that shoot up about 2,600 meters into the sky.

Now here’s the cool part – you can actually hike all the way to the tippy-top of this volcano! When you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to some of the most mind-blowing views you can imagine. You’ll see the volcano itself, of course, but you’ll also get a bird’s-eye view of the entire island, and let me tell you, it’s like something out of a dream!

Ranking: 7/16 (is the 7th best destination in West Africa)

Guinea – Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve

A majestic mountain that stands tall at 1,700 meters high. It’s not just any mountain; it’s perched right on the border of three West African countries: Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Liberia. Now, what makes this place really special is that it’s like a paradise for all sorts of plants and animals. Seriously, it’s one of the most biodiverse spots in the whole of Africa!

But here’s the thing, because it’s a nature reserve, they’ve put some rules in place, and regular tourists like us can’t just waltz in independently. But don’t worry, there’s a way to experience this natural wonderland. You can get yourself an entry permit from the local authorities, and they’ll point you in the right direction to make it all happen.

Ranking: 14/16 (is the 14th best destination in West Africa)

Guinea-Bissau – Bubaque Island

Let’s talk about Guinea Bissau, one of those hidden gems in Africa. It might be small, but it’s packed with wonderful places to explore. And guess what? It’s super accessible too, just a 4-hour flight from Europe. So, here’s the scoop: in Guinea Bissau, there’s this fantastic group of islands called the Bubaque Islands, and they’re part of the Bijagós archipelago.

Now, these islands are something special. Imagine picture-perfect beaches with crystal-clear waters, and landscapes that will take your breath away. Plus, there are some really comfy places to stay, whether you’re looking for a medium-budget option or you want to go all out with a high-standard stay.

Speaking of beaches, you can’t miss Bruce Beach and Escadinhas Beach, which are like slices of paradise just outside the main village.

Ranking: 16/16 (is the 16th best destination in West Africa)

Liberia – Kpatawee Waterfall

Let’s dive into Liberia, a country that’s way greener than you might expect! I’ve got a gem of a destination for you: Kpatawee Waterfall. This place perfectly captures the essence of Liberia, and here’s why it’s a must-visit.

Imagine a breathtaking waterfall tucked away in nature’s embrace, just a 3-hour road trip from the capital, Monrovia. It’s like a secret paradise waiting to be discovered. What’s cool is that this spot isn’t overrun by crowds of tourists, which means you get to enjoy its beauty in peace.

Ranking: 10/16 (is the 10th best destination in West Africa)

Sierra Leona – Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Now, picture this: you’re surrounded by lush greenery, and in the midst of it all, you get to hang out with about 100 rescued chimpanzees. Yep, you read that right! These chimps have found a safe haven here.

You can be a part of the magic by joining one of the daily tours at the sanctuary. But wait, it gets even cooler! You can actually spend a night in a treehouse and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the chimpanzees. It’s a unique experience that you’ll cherish forever.

Ranking: 8/16 (is the 8th best destination in West Africa)

Nigeria – Zuma Rock

Let’s talk about a natural wonder that’s right at the heart of Nigeria – Zuma Rock. This monolith is like no other, and it’s only about 20 miles away from Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja.

Now, here’s what makes Zuma Rock so intriguing: when you get up close, you’ll notice something incredible – it looks like a gigantic human face is carved into the rock itself. It’s like nature’s very own work of art!

But here’s where it gets even more interesting. Zuma Rock is surrounded by captivating urban legends. Imagine this: the folks from Degwari, a nearby town, believed that this rock held special powers. They thought it could protect them from enemies and even provide hiding spots in times of trouble.

Ranking: 11/16 (is the 11th best destination in West Africa)

Côte d’Ivoire – Yamoussoukro

Did you know that the capital of Côte d’Ivoire is a city called Yamoussoukro? Yep, you read that right! It might come as a surprise, but since 1983, it’s been the country’s official administrative capital, even though Abidjan is more populous.

Now, let me share something truly remarkable with you. Yamoussoukro is home to what’s often called the biggest Christian place of worship in the world! That’s right, it’s the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. Imagine a church so massive, it’s the largest on the entire African continent!

Here’s another cool fact: Pope John Paul II himself consecrated this incredible basilica on September 10, 1990. So, if you ever find yourself in Côte d’Ivoire, make sure to check out this awe-inspiring piece of architecture – it’s a true wonder!

Ranking: 4/16 (is the forth best destination in West Africa)

Mauritania – Chinguetti

This place is like no other, where age-old traditions and rich culture have been lovingly preserved. Picture a country where a whopping 90% of the land is covered by the sprawling Sahara Desert – it’s like stepping into a real-life desert oasis!

Now, let’s zoom in on a hidden gem within this incredible nation – the city of Chinguetti. Founded way back in the 13th century, this city was once the bustling heart of trans-Saharan trade routes. Imagine wandering through its winding streets and being transported to a scene right out of the tales from Arabian Nights. But that’s not all!

Chinguetti is home to some of the oldest libraries in the world. These precious libraries have been lovingly passed down through generations of families, and the current owners proudly showcase these ancient treasures.

Ranking: 3/16 (is the 3rd best destination in West Africa)

Senegal – Casamance

And now, dear fellow travelers, we’ve reached the grand finale of our adventure – the stunning Casamance region of Senegal! It’s like the crown jewel of West African destinations, and let me tell you, it’s a real treat for the senses.

Picture this: lush, vibrant green jungles stretching as far as the eye can see, with glistening waterways weaving through the landscape like nature’s own masterpiece. It might be a tad remote, but trust me, it’s worth every mile of the journey!

As you explore Casamance, you’ll stumble upon gems like the picturesque beaches of Kafountine. There, you can kick back, soak up the maritime beauty, and watch the colorful fishing boats bobbing on the waves. It’s the kind of place that dreams are made of.

But wait, there’s more! The Kalissaye Reserve is another Casamance treasure, famous for its incredible wildlife. We’re talking about a thriving community of birds and even playful dolphins! Yes, you heard that right – dolphins! You can catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures on a boat trip through the reserve, making it an unforgettable experience.

Ranking: 2/16 (is the 2nd best destination in West Africa)

Read The Ultimate Senegal Trip: How Many Days To See It All

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