West Africa is a vibrant and culturally rich region, offering travelers a mix of history, nature, adventure, and relaxation. With so many destinations to choose from, selecting the right place for your holiday can be overwhelming. Here are key factors to consider when planning your West African getaway with Evans Tours.
Before choosing a destination, ask yourself:
West Africa has something for every traveler!
🔹 History & Heritage – Visit Ghana’s Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, Nigeria’s Badagry Slave Route, or Senegal’s Gorée Island.
🔹 Cultural Experiences – Explore Benin’s Voodoo Festival, witness the Batammariba tribe in Togo, or enjoy Ghana’s lively Chale Wote Festival.
🔹 Beach & Relaxation – Unwind at Grand-Bassam in Côte d’Ivoire, La Campagne Tropicana in Nigeria, or Saly Beach in Senegal.
🔹 Nature & Wildlife – Experience Ghana’s Kakum National Park, Benin’s Pendjari National Park, or Nigeria’s Erin Ijesha Waterfalls.
West Africa has two main seasons:
If you want to attend specific festivals like Benin’s Voodoo Festival (January) or Ghana’s Panafest (July-August), plan accordingly!
Your budget will determine the level of comfort and experiences you can afford. Consider:
✅ Accommodation: Standard (3-star hotels) or luxury options.
✅ Transport: Private vehicles, flights, or local transportation.
✅ Activities: Some attractions have entrance fees; we provide full details in our tour packages.
Evans Tours offers tailored packages for every budget, ensuring a comfortable and enriching travel experience.
Before choosing your destination, check:
✅ Visa requirements – Some countries offer visa-free access or e-visas. We assist with visa processing!
✅ Health precautions – Yellow fever vaccination is required for most West African countries.
✅ Local safety tips – We ensure safe, guided tours with knowledgeable local experts.
To make the most of your West African adventure, book with an experienced tour operator like Evans Tours. We provide:
✔️ Hassle-free planning and transportation.
✔️ Expert English- and French-speaking guides.
✔️ Authentic experiences tailored to your interests.
Whether you want a historical tour, cultural immersion, or a beach retreat, Evans Tours will craft the perfect itinerary for you. Contact us today and start planning your unforgettable West African adventure!
✅ Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
✅ Visa: Many West African countries require a visa. We assist travelers with visa processing and provide guidance.
✅ Yellow Fever Card: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into most countries in the region.
🔹 Tip: Make copies of all important documents and store digital copies in your email for easy access.
Aside from yellow fever, consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations such as:
✔️ Typhoid
✔️ Hepatitis A & B
✔️ Meningitis
✔️ Malaria prevention (anti-malarial tablets)
🔹 Tip: Carry a basic travel medical kit with pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and any personal prescriptions.
💰 Currency: Most West African countries use either the West African CFA Franc (XOF) or the Nigerian Naira (NGN), Ghanaian Cedi (GHS), etc.
💳 Cash vs. Card: ATMs are available in major cities, but it’s best to carry some cash, as card payments may not always be accepted in rural areas.
📈 Exchange Rates: Research currency exchange rates before your trip for better budgeting.
🔹 Tip: Inform your bank about your travel dates to avoid your card being blocked abroad.
West Africa has a warm tropical climate, so pack accordingly:
👕 Light, breathable clothing (cotton/linen)
🧢 Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
🦟 Mosquito repellent (essential for malaria prevention)
🥾 Comfortable walking shoes for tours
🔹 Tip: If visiting during the rainy season (May – October), pack a light rain jacket.
✔️ Greet people with respect – handshakes and smiles go a long way!
✔️ Dress modestly, especially in rural areas or religious sites.
✔️ Bargaining is common in markets—don’t hesitate to negotiate prices!
🔹 Tip: Learning a few local phrases like “Bonjour” (French-speaking countries) or “Ete Sɛn?” (Twi in Ghana) can enhance your experience.
📱 SIM Card & Internet: Get a local SIM card upon arrival for easy communication.
🚨 Emergency Numbers: Save important contacts, including your country’s embassy and our Evans Tours support line.
🔹 Tip: Download offline maps and translation apps for convenience.
Traveling to West Africa is an exciting experience, but it’s important to take the necessary health precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here’s a guide to the medical requirements and health tips you should follow before your journey with Evans Tours.
🔹 Yellow Fever Vaccination is required for entry into most West African countries. Travelers must carry an official Yellow Fever Certificate (International Certificate of Vaccination).
💉 Where to Get It: Visit a travel clinic or authorized health center at least 10 days before departure.
🔹 Tip: Some countries may deny entry if you don’t have proof of vaccination, so keep your certificate with your passport.
To stay protected, consider the following vaccines:
✔️ Typhoid – Prevents food and waterborne diseases.
✔️ Hepatitis A & B – Protection from contaminated food, water, or blood exposure.
✔️ Meningitis (ACWY) – Advised for travelers during the dry season (November–June).
✔️ Rabies – Recommended if visiting rural areas or having close contact with animals.
✔️ Tetanus & Diphtheria – Routine vaccination if you haven’t had a booster shot in the last 10 years.
🔹 Tip: Consult a travel health clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalized advice.
West Africa is a malaria-risk region, so take preventive steps:
💊 Anti-Malarial Medication: Your doctor may prescribe Malarone, Doxycycline, or Lariam.
🦟 Mosquito Protection:
✔️ Use insect repellent with DEET (30-50%).
✔️ Wear long-sleeved clothing in the evening.
✔️ Sleep under a mosquito net if in rural areas.
🔹 Tip: Start malaria medication before travel, take it during your trip, and continue as prescribed after returning.
To avoid foodborne illnesses:
🚫 Drink only bottled or purified water – no tap water.
🍽️ Eat fully cooked meals; avoid raw salads or street food.
🧴 Carry hand sanitizer for hygiene.
🔹 Tip: Stick to well-reviewed restaurants or those recommended by Evans Tours for safe dining.
Pack essential medications and first aid supplies:
✔️ Pain relievers (Paracetamol/Ibuprofen)
✔️ Anti-diarrhea medication (Imodium)
✔️ Rehydration salts (for dehydration)
✔️ Motion sickness tablets (if traveling long distances)
✔️ Personal prescriptions (in original packaging)
🔹 Tip: Carry a small first aid kit for minor cuts, insect bites, or stomach upsets.
Comprehensive travel health insurance is highly recommended. Ensure your policy covers:
✔️ Emergency medical treatment
✔️ Evacuation & repatriation in case of serious illness
✔️ Trip cancellations & delays
🔹 Tip: Keep a copy of your insurance details and emergency contacts on hand.
While COVID-19 restrictions have eased, check entry requirements before travel. Some countries may request:
✔️ Proof of vaccination or negative test (varies by country)
✔️ Health declaration forms upon arrival
🔹 Tip: Stay updated with the latest health regulations before your trip. Evans Tours can assist with travel guidance.
With proper preparation, your trip will be safe and worry-free. Need help with travel planning? Contact us today!
Start with your holiday
Planning a trip to West Africa? Most countries in the region require a visa for international travelers. To ensure a smooth journey, here’s a detailed guide on visa requirements and how to prepare before your trip with Evans Tours.
Visa policies vary by country. Here’s a quick overview:
✔️ ECOWAS Nationals (West African Travelers): Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) do not need a visa for travel within member states. Only a valid passport or ECOWAS Travel Certificate is required.
✔️ Non-ECOWAS Travelers (Europe, USA, Canada, Asia, etc.): Most international travelers must obtain a visa before arrival. Some countries offer visa-on-arrival or e-visas.
✔️ Visa-Free Countries: Some nationalities, such as those from select African or Caribbean nations, may have visa-free access. Always check with the embassy.
There are three main ways to obtain a visa:
📝 Apply at the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit.
📍 Requirements:
✔️ Valid passport (at least 6 months before expiration)
✔️ Completed visa application form
✔️ Passport-sized photos
✔️ Proof of travel (flight itinerary, hotel bookings, tour details)
✔️ Invitation letter (if required)
✔️ Visa fee payment
🔹 Processing Time: Usually 3–10 business days.
Some countries allow travelers to obtain a visa at the airport or border.
📍 Common VOA Countries in West Africa:
✔️ Ghana (for selected nationalities)
✔️ Benin
✔️ Togo
✔️ Côte d’Ivoire
🔹 Tip: Ensure you have:
✔️ Sufficient cash (USD or Euros) to pay the visa fee.
✔️ Return ticket & proof of accommodation.
Some West African countries offer electronic visas (e-visas) for easier processing.
📍 Common E-Visa Countries:
✔️ Ghana – Apply via https://www.ghana.gov.gh
✔️ Benin – Apply via https://evisa.gouv.bj
🔹 Tip: Apply at least 1–2 weeks before your trip to avoid delays.
Here’s a breakdown for key destinations in West Africa:
✔️ Visa Required: Most travelers need a visa before arrival.
✔️ Application: At the Nigerian embassy or online (e-visa for select nationalities).
✔️ Visa on Arrival: Available for business travelers with prior approval.
✔️ Visa on Arrival & E-Visa Available
✔️ E-Visa Link: https://evisa.gouv.bj
✔️ Visa on Arrival: Available at major entry points.
✔️ Duration: 7-day entry (extendable at immigration offices).
✔️ Visa Required for Most Travelers
✔️ E-Visa & Visa on Arrival: Available for some nationalities.
✔️ Visa Required: Apply at the embassy or online.
✔️ E-Visa Available: https://snedai.com/e-visa
✔️ Apply Early: Start your visa process at least 3–4 weeks before travel.
✔️ Check Entry Rules: Some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination before issuing a visa.
✔️ Have Supporting Documents: Some visas require a tourist invitation letter (Evans Tours can assist).
✔️ Multiple Entry Visas: If traveling across multiple West African countries, apply for multiple-entry visas where available.
Need help with your visa? Evans Tours provides:
✔️ Visa application guidance
✔️ Invitation letters (if required)
✔️ Travel documentation assistance
package by choosing a guided tour package. It’s the best way to travel with family because all the details are pre-planned for you. This is especially important if you are not keen on researching destinations yourself.
For those who do pre-plan, take some time to create a complete itinerary following some research on the destination you are visiting. Pay special attention to special festivals, weather, and political climate when you are working on the itinerary. This provides space for back up plans in case of unforeseen travel problems.
The itinerary also ensures that everything is planned based on what you/ your family wants to see and experience. Just make sure all the activities are something worth trying and gives you and your fellow travellers a new dimension of the places visited.
If you are travelling on a budget then you should plan with flight, ground arrangements, passport, visa, meals, transport, shopping and contingency cash for emergency.
The day of travel can be exciting, but it also comes with some challenges. Proper preparation ensures a smooth journey, whether you’re heading to Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Ghana, or Côte d’Ivoire with Evans Tours. Follow this guide for a stress-free travel experience.
Before leaving for the airport or border, ensure you have:
✔️ Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
✔️ Visa & Entry Permits (if required)
✔️ Yellow Fever Vaccination Card (mandatory for most West African countries)
✔️ Flight tickets & itinerary
✔️ Hotel reservations & tour confirmation from Evans Tours
🔹 Tip: Keep both digital and physical copies of your documents in case of loss.
Avoid last-minute packing by preparing early.
✔️ Carry-On Bag Essentials:
🎫 Passport, visa, and travel documents
📱 Phone, charger, and power bank
💊 Personal medications & mini first-aid kit
💧 Reusable water bottle (empty before security)
😷 Face mask & hand sanitizer (if needed)
✔️ Checked Luggage Tips:
🎒 Pack comfortable clothing suitable for the weather
🧴 Use travel-size toiletries (check airline liquid limits)
💵 Keep some cash (USD/Euros) for border fees or small purchases
🔹 Tip: Label your bags with your name and contact details.
🚖 Airport Travelers: Arrive 3 hours before international flights.
🚗 Land Borders: Arrive early in the morning to avoid long queues.
✔️ Prepare for Security & Immigration:
🔹 Have your passport & visa ready
🔹 Be honest with immigration officers
🔹 Keep important addresses (hotel, tour operator) handy
🔹 Tip: Dress neatly and be polite to officials for smooth clearance.
✔️ Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
✔️ Beware of scammers offering “fast-track” services at borders.
✔️ Stay in contact with your tour guide or driver from Evans Tours.
🔹 Tip: If you’re unsure about anything, ask your Evans Tours representative for help.
Once you’ve passed security or border checks, relax and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Whether traveling by plane, road, or ferry, Evans Tours ensures a smooth and comfortable journey.
Traveling by air can be overwhelming, especially when flying to West Africa. Whether you’re landing in Lagos, Accra, Cotonou, Lome, or Abidjan, these flight and airport reminders will help you navigate your journey with ease.
✔️ Confirm Your Flight Time & Terminal – Airlines sometimes change schedules.
✔️ Check Baggage Allowance – Avoid last-minute fees by knowing your weight limit.
✔️ Print or Download Your Boarding Pass – Some airports may require a physical copy.
✔️ Have Your Visa & Yellow Fever Card Ready – Required for entry into most West African countries.
🔹 Tip: Sign up for airline notifications in case of delays or gate changes.
✔️ International Flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure.
✔️ Security & Immigration Can Take Time – Be patient, especially during peak hours.
✔️ Have Your Documents Ready:
🔹 Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
🔹 Visa (if required)
🔹 Yellow Fever Vaccination Card
🔹 Flight Ticket
🔹 Tip: Use priority check-in if you have a lot of luggage or need extra assistance.
✔️ Follow Liquid & Electronics Rules – Place laptops & liquids (max 100ml) in separate trays.
✔️ Keep Essentials in Your Carry-On:
🎫 Passport & Boarding Pass
📱 Phone, Charger, Power Bank
💊 Medications
😷 Face Mask & Hand Sanitizer (if required)
✔️ At Customs:
🔹 Declare any large amounts of cash if carrying over $10,000.
🔹 Avoid bringing restricted items like fresh food, plants, or certain medications.
🔹 Tip: Wear slip-on shoes to pass security faster.
✔️ Airport Pickup: Your Evans Tours guide or driver will be waiting with a sign at the arrival hall.
✔️ Currency Exchange: Only exchange small amounts at the airport, as rates may be higher.
✔️ SIM Cards & Internet: Buy a local SIM for cheaper calls & data.
✔️ Immigration & Customs Checks: Have your hotel address & tour itinerary handy if asked.
🔹 Tip: If your luggage is delayed, report it immediately at the airline desk before leaving baggage claim.
Airports can be busy, but with Evans Tours, your arrival and transfers are stress-free. Just follow these reminders, and you’ll have a smooth start to your West African adventure!
Now that you’ve arrived at your destination, it’s time to relax, explore, and enjoy your adventure in West Africa! Whether you’re visiting Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Ghana, or Côte d’Ivoire with Evans Tours, here are some essential tips to help you stay safe, comfortable, and make unforgettable memories.
✔️ Keep Your Valuables Secure – Use a money belt or secure bag for cash, passport, and phone. Avoid flashing expensive jewelry.
✔️ Be Cautious with Strangers – West Africans are friendly, but beware of scams or overly persistent vendors.
✔️ Follow Local Laws & Customs – Avoid taking photos of military sites or government buildings.
✔️ Stay Connected – Get a local SIM card or activate roaming to stay in touch with your guide.
🔹 Tip: Save important contacts, including your hotel, Evans Tours guide, and local emergency numbers.
✔️ Try Traditional Foods – Taste jollof rice, fufu, attiéké, and grilled fish. Ask your guide for the best spots!
✔️ Visit Local Markets – Shop for handcrafted souvenirs and interact with artisans.
✔️ Respect Local Traditions – Some places may have dress codes (e.g., covering shoulders in certain religious sites).
✔️ Engage with the Community – Learn a few local phrases like “Akwaaba” (Welcome in Ghana) or “Merci” (Thank you in Benin).
🔹 Tip: Your Evans Tours guide can help with translations and cultural etiquette.
✔️ Drink Bottled or Purified Water – Tap water may not always be safe.
✔️ Use Sunscreen & Bug Repellent – Protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes.
✔️ Eat at Trusted Restaurants – Your guide can recommend clean, safe places to eat.
✔️ Carry Essential Medications – Especially for allergies, stomach relief, and malaria prevention.
🔹 Tip: If you feel unwell, inform your guide immediately for assistance.
✔️ Ask Before Taking Photos – Some locals may not want to be photographed.
✔️ Back Up Your Photos – Use cloud storage or an external drive.
✔️ Stay Present – Enjoy moments without always looking through a screen.
🔹 Tip: Participate in traditional dances, festivals, and storytelling for a deeper experience!
We handle all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your holiday stress-free!
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