Memorable parts? Traveling through the Somba country and seeing their fortified Tata houses - simply amazing! Tips? Just go ahead and book it as the itinerary covers so much of West African culture, with particular insights into voodoo practices and life inside remote tribal villages. Local benefits? I do feel that local people benefited from our visits, particularly vendors selling local handicrafts. Overall rating? I had one of my most eye-opening trips - and I... (more)Mark Langer

Memorable parts? The festival for the local king in Kumasi on day 11 was a highlight. Another highlight was a visit to a village of semi nomadic people on day 9. They had a sort of water festival that day. Around 100 women in color full dresses carried a jar of water on their head, singing, and emptied the water in front of their chief. Visit to the slave forts and to several markets were very interesting. Tips? Do not have high expectations about hotels or restaurants, but... (more)Annie Krefting

Memorable parts? We experienced many memorable events but the Voodoo Festival in Ouidah, Benin was the most exciting. It was very colorful and spontaneous. Numerous people went into trances and engaged in wild dances. Tips? Don't hesitate to go. It will surpass your expectations. Don't worry about security. It felt very safe. But be ready for heat and humidity. Local benefits? Local people obviously benefited a little from the money we spent and it's possible that... (more)Frank Keen