West Africa is between the Sahel Region and the Atlantic Ocean. Thirteen countries on the African continent comprise West Africa.
Starting in the East, the countries are Nigeria, Benin, and Burkina Faso to the north and Togo to the west. Adjacent to Togo is Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire is west of Ghana.
Lastly, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Cape Verde make up the western coastline of West Africa.
Places to Visit in West Africa
West Africa has the highest population on the continent. Consequently, it has several attractions for visitors. Senegal has a history with France, which shows in the cuisine and monuments. Plus, you can sunbathe on the gorgeous beaches while you are here.
Spend your days in the economic capital of Benin, Cotonou. It is the largest city in Nigeria and is known for its active nightlife and elegant boutiques.
Immerse yourself in Abidjan, the French-speaking part of Africa. Relax in the calm waters of the Bijagos islands, and be sure to taste the delicious seafood.
Benin is the country where the art of Voodoo originated. Togo has several quaint villages, which will appease travelers who are looking for peace. Burkina Faso is an underrated destination in West Africa.
The Slave Castles taint Ghana’s history. However, it is still a comfortable destination for English-speaking travelers who are looking for some adventure. Côte d’Ivoire is a country in chaos that is better left to itself. Liberia faces the same conditions as Côte d’ Ivoire.
Sierra Leone is a growing tourist destination. Spectacular beaches are the central attraction for tourists. Guinea is currently underdeveloped but it has the potential to be a top tourist destination.
The same goes for its neighbor, Guinea-Bissau. Gambia, like any African country, is rich in the natural beauty of the Coast. Nigeria has cultural diversity unlike any other country in West Africa. However, terrorism has profoundly influenced the country.
Abidjan, Accra, Abuja, Cotonou, Dakar, Lomè, and Lagos are popular cities in this part of the continent. Plus, many have a lively nightlife scene.
However, a tourist has to remain careful of his/her surroundings. Yankari National Park, Tamberma Valley, Moyenne Guinee and Niokolo Koba River are natural gems in West Africa. Indigenous groups speak a variety of dialects; but Portuguese, French, and English are popular among the locals.
Traveling between countries via airplane is not advisable due to safety concerns. Moving around throughout Africa is a mammoth task. Roads are typically not in good conditions, which will give you a sore back from the bumpy rides.
November 29, 2016 1:02 pm
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