Essential Travel Tips and Guides for West Africa: Insider Secrets from a Local Expert

After years of guiding travelers through the wonders of Benin, Togo, and Ghana, I've gathered invaluable insights that can make the difference between a good trip and an extraordinary one. Here are my essential tips and insider secrets for navigating West Africa like a pro.

🏥 Health & Safety Preparations

Before You Travel

Essential Vaccinations:

• Yellow Fever (mandatory - carry certificate)
• Hepatitis A & B
• Typhoid
• Meningitis (especially for northern regions)
• Routine vaccines (MMR, DPT, flu)

Malaria Prevention:

• Start prophylaxis 1-2 weeks before travel
• Pack insect repellent (DEET 20-30%)
• Bring long-sleeved clothing for evenings
• Consider permethrin-treated clothing

Travel Insurance:

• Choose comprehensive coverage including medical evacuation
• Ensure coverage for adventure activities
• Keep digital and physical copies of policy

Health Tips During Travel

Water & Food Safety:

• Drink only bottled or properly purified water
• Avoid ice unless from trusted sources
• Eat hot, freshly cooked food
• Peel fruits yourself
• Avoid raw vegetables unless you can peel them

Sun Protection:

• Use SPF 30+ sunscreen (reapply frequently)
• Wear wide-brimmed hats
• Seek shade during peak hours (11 AM - 3 PM)
• Stay hydrated - drink water regularly

🛂 Visa & Documentation

Visa Requirements

Multiple Entry Strategy:

• Apply for visas in advance when possible
• Consider visa-on-arrival options for flexibility
• Keep multiple passport photos (different sizes)
• Carry cash in USD for visa fees

Essential Documents:

• Passport (valid 6+ months)
• Yellow fever certificate
• Travel insurance documents
• Flight itineraries
• Hotel reservations (even if flexible)
• Emergency contact information

Pro Tip: Scan all documents and email them to yourself. Keep physical copies in separate bags.

💰 Money Matters

Currency Exchange

Best Practices:

• Exchange money at official bureaus or banks
• Avoid street money changers
• Keep receipts for currency exchange
• Carry small denominations for tips and small purchases

Payment Methods:

• Cash is king in most places
• Credit cards accepted in major hotels and restaurants
• Mobile money popular in Ghana (MTN Mobile Money)
• ATMs available in major cities (check international fees)

Tipping Guidelines:

• Restaurant servers: 10-15%
• Hotel staff: $1-2 per service
• Tour guides: $5-10 per day
• Taxi drivers: Round up fare
• Porters: $1-2 per bag

🚗 Transportation Mastery

Getting Around Like a Local

Shared Transport:

• Tro-tros (Ghana): Cheap but crowded
• Bush taxis: Faster but negotiate price first
• Motorcycle taxis: Quick for short distances, always wear helmet

Private Transport:

• Hire cars with drivers for comfort and safety
• Negotiate daily rates for multiple destinations
• Ensure driver speaks your language
• Check vehicle condition before long trips

Border Crossings:

• Carry passport and yellow fever certificate
• Be patient - processes can be slow
• Small tips can expedite procedures
• Keep vehicle documents handy

Navigation Tips

• Download offline maps (Maps.me works well)
• Learn key phrases in local languages
• Landmarks are more reliable than street addresses
• Ask multiple people for directions

🏛️ Cultural Etiquette & Respect

Social Interactions

Greetings:

• Always greet before asking questions
• Use right hand for handshakes
• Show respect to elders
• Learn basic greetings in local languages

Dress Code:

• Dress modestly, especially in rural areas
• Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites
• Bright colors are welcome and appreciated
• Remove shoes when entering homes

Photography Ethics:

• Always ask permission before photographing people
• Respect "no photography" signs at sacred sites
• Offer to share photos with subjects
• Be sensitive during religious ceremonies

Religious Sensitivity

Vodoun/Traditional Religion:

• Show deep respect during ceremonies
• Follow guide's instructions strictly
• Participate only when invited
• Understand it's a serious spiritual practice, not entertainment

Islam & Christianity:

• Dress appropriately when visiting mosques/churches
• Remove shoes in mosques
• Avoid visiting during prayer times unless invited
• Be quiet and respectful

🍽️ Food & Dining Adventures

Street Food Safety

Choose Wisely:

• Eat where locals eat
• Look for high turnover (fresh food)
• Avoid food sitting in the sun
• Watch food being prepared

Must-Try Dishes:

• Jollof rice (all countries - but each claims theirs is best!)
• Fufu with soup (Ghana/Togo)
• Akassa (Benin)
• Kelewele (spiced fried plantains - Ghana)
• Grilled fish with attieké (all coastal areas)

Dining Etiquette:

• Wash hands before eating
• Use right hand for eating
• Share food when offered
• Compliment the cook

📱 Communication & Connectivity

Staying Connected

SIM Cards:

• Buy local SIM cards for cheaper rates
• Major networks: MTN, Vodafone, Airtel
• Data packages are affordable
• Keep your home SIM for emergencies

Internet Access:

• WiFi available in most hotels and restaurants
• Internet cafes in major cities
• Mobile data is reliable in urban areas
• Download offline content before rural trips

Language Tips:

• English widely spoken in Ghana
• French in Benin and Togo
• Learn basic phrases in local languages
• Translation apps can be helpful

🎒 Packing Essentials

Clothing

What to Pack:

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics
• Long sleeves for evening (mosquito protection)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals for beaches
• Light rain jacket
• Modest clothing for cultural sites

Colors & Fabrics:

• Light colors reflect heat
• Avoid dark colors (attract insects)
• Quick-dry fabrics are ideal
• Pack a few nice outfits for special occasions

Essential Items

Health & Safety:

• First aid kit with basics
• Insect repellent (DEET-based)
• Sunscreen (high SPF)
• Water purification tablets
• Hand sanitizer
• Personal medications

Electronics:

• Universal power adapter
• Portable charger/power bank
• Waterproof phone case
• Camera with extra batteries
• Flashlight/headlamp

🌦️ Weather & Seasonal Considerations

Best Times to Visit

Dry Season (November - March):

• Ideal weather for most activities
• Higher prices and crowds
• Perfect for northern parks
• Harmattan winds can be dusty

Rainy Season (April - October):

• Lower prices and fewer tourists
• Lush, green landscapes
• Some roads may be impassable
• Great for photography

Regional Variations

Coastal Areas:

• Two rainy seasons
• High humidity year-round
• Sea breezes provide relief
• Best visited November-March

Northern Regions:

• Single rainy season
• Drier climate
• Cooler evenings
• Wildlife viewing best in dry season

🚨 Safety & Security

General Safety Tips

Personal Security:

• Don't display expensive items
• Use hotel safes for valuables
• Travel in groups when possible
• Trust your instincts

Common Scams to Avoid:

• Fake police checkpoints
• Overcharging tourists
• "Emergency" money requests
• Fake tour guides

Emergency Preparedness:

• Register with your embassy
• Keep emergency contacts handy
• Know location of nearest hospital
• Have evacuation insurance

🎁 Shopping & Souvenirs

Best Buys

Authentic Crafts:

• Kente cloth (Ghana)
• Bronze sculptures (Benin)
• Batik fabrics (all countries)
• Wood carvings
• Traditional masks
• Jewelry and beads

Bargaining Tips:

• Start at 30-40% of asking price
• Be patient and friendly
• Walk away if price too high
• Buy multiple items for better deals

🌟 Maximizing Your Experience

Cultural Immersion

Connect with Locals:

• Stay in family-run guesthouses
• Participate in community activities
• Learn basic local language phrases
• Share meals with local families

Timing is Everything:

• Visit markets early morning
• Plan cultural sites for cooler hours
• Attend local festivals when possible
• Allow flexibility in your schedule

Photography Tips

Best Shots:

• Golden hour lighting (sunrise/sunset)
• Candid moments in markets
• Traditional architecture
• Natural landscapes
• Cultural ceremonies (with permission)

Technical Considerations:

• Protect equipment from dust and humidity
• Bring extra memory cards
• Consider polarizing filters
• Backup photos regularly

🎯 Final Pro Tips

Attitude & Mindset

1. Embrace the Unexpected - Plans will change, and that's part of the adventure
2. Be Patient - Things move at a different pace
3. Stay Curious - Ask questions and show genuine interest
4. Remain Flexible - The best experiences often come unplanned
5. Show Respect - You're a guest in someone else's home

Making Lasting Connections

• Exchange contact information with locals you meet
• Send photos to people you've photographed
• Support local businesses and artisans
• Consider returning to places that touched your heart

Conclusion

West Africa will challenge you, inspire you, and change you in ways you never expected. These tips come from years of experience and countless conversations with travelers who've fallen in love with this incredible region.

Remember, the goal isn't just to visit West Africa - it's to experience it authentically, respectfully, and memorably. With proper preparation and the right mindset, your journey through Benin, Togo, and Ghana will be nothing short of transformational.

Ready to embark on your West African adventure?

Contact Herman AKUE for personalized travel planning and authentic cultural experiences that go beyond typical tourist routes.