Before we jump right to the mandatory sights to visit, we should possess some basic level knowledge of the countries we plan to tour. The westernmost sub region of Africa is West Africa and thus it is named as such. It is a rich region consisting of 18 countries (Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Gambia). The religions practiced in this region are Islam, Christianity, and Traditional African religions. The combined population of these 18 countries is approximately 349 million. Some unique features of West Africa are defined by factors such as a good number of plateaus and coastal plains, less dry and wetter environments, crops such as sorghum, peanuts, cotton, rice, coffee, cassava, and cocoa!
Gorée
Historic sights in itself have a captivating spell that provokes interest and awe in us. Hence, these sights will make you reminiscent for sure! Goree is a tiny island in Senegal. This Island is famous for its infamous and tragic history of slave trade market, which has been converted to museums. Fort d’Estrees is where the IFAN Historical Museum is to be found. This gives you insights into the past of Senegal. The Henriette Bathily Women’s Museum exhibits the roles that were played by women in the West African communities.
Lake Retba
Lake Retba, which means “Pink Lake” is situated in the north of Cap Vert peninsula of Senegal. The beauty of this lake lies in its exotic pink color which is caused by the presence of Dunaliella salina algae. The lake is buoyant allowing people to float easily. It is only a narrow dune apart from the Atlantic ocean. The samphire bushes have a magenta color and are visible in the white sand banks. The sand dunes have a terra-cotta-color. The eccentric beauty nature leads to this lake is worth experiencing. Here is a look at Lake Retba.
Mole National Park
The National Park is home to a variety of animals. It is located in northern Ghana where it protects an area of savannah and forest. Leopards, birds, and elephants are few of the many animals you would find there. You could take panoramic views from The Konkori Escarpment. It overlooks water holes where animals are seen drinking from. There are breathtaking waterfalls that run along the Kparia and Polzen rivers. There’s also an ancient Sudanese-style mosque to the south. If you’re an animal person, this place has to be your list topper!
The Great Mosque of Djenne
The Great Mosque of Djenne is a unique site located in Mali. The Mosque of Djenne is viewed as by many architects as one of the greatest achievements of Sudano-Sahelian architect. Its exterior gives it a look of a large banco building. It reputed as a landmark of Mali. The essence of God’s home rekindles a lost spirituality in this century old mosque.
Lake Volta
The river of Volta flows in the region of Ghana. Its main three tributaries are the Black Volta, White Volta, and Red Volta. Lake Volta is a reservoir collected behind the Akosombo Dam. It is one of the largest man made lakes in the world and makes for a beautiful tourist location. There are more than 60 species of marine life in the Volta river.
These are only a few of the many places to visit in West Africa. It certainly requires multiple trips to this region to fully absorb all the fantastic views offered by it. Plan away your tourism now!
