Thinking of heading to West Africa? Good call.
This vibrant corner of the world, where the rhythms of djembe drums echo down sun-washed streets and the scent of grilled fish drifts through bustling markets, deserves a firm spot on every adventurer’s bucket list.
Whether you’re planning a slow saunter through Senegal or a multi-country jaunt across Benin, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa welcomes travellers with open arms and plenty of spicy sauce.
But before you book that ticket, here’s your essential travel starter pack to help you prep like a pro and dive into the trip of a lifetime.
First Things First: Where Exactly Are You Going?
West Africa is home to eight countries that share the West African CFA franc (XOF):
- Senegal
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Burkina Faso
- Benin
- Togo
- Niger
- Mali
- Guinea-Bissau
This shared currency means fewer headaches at border crossings and more time enjoying the journey.
Fancy watching wrestling in Dakar, then hopping over to Lomé’s beaches? Go for it. One currency, endless adventure.
Tip: Multicountry travel is smoother when your money’s sorted in advance.
Grab your West African CFA francs before you go; you’ll save time, avoid sky-high airport rates, and hit the ground running. Order your XOF now at Manor FX.
What to Pack: Lightweight, Bright & Practical
West Africa’s weather is generally hot and humid, with the occasional desert breeze or tropical downpour depending on where you are. Here’s what to pack for comfort and cultural respect:
- Light cotton clothing: Loose-fitting clothes help you keep cool and are widely accepted.
- A wrap or sarong: Perfect for covering shoulders, sitting on the beach, or creating shade.
- A good hat & strong SPF: The sun doesn’t mess around here.
- Comfortable sandals & walking shoes: You’ll want both for different terrains.
- A water bottle with a filter: Hydration is key, and you’ll reduce plastic waste.
Optional but awesome:
- A phrasebook or offline translation app: French is widely spoken, and a little goes a long way.
- Small gifts or keepsakes from your home country: Perfect for saying thank you to hosts.
Your Cultural Cheat Sheet
One of the joys of travelling in West Africa is the warm hospitality and deeply rooted community spirit. Here’s how to make a good impression:
- Greet everyone, seriously, everyone. A friendly “bonjour” or “salaam aleikum” sets the tone.
- Ask before taking photos, especially in markets or rural areas.
- Left hand = no thanks in some cultures. Try to use your right when giving or receiving things.
- Taxis and prices are negotiable, but do so with a smile and some humour.
Top Experiences Not to Miss
From sacred forests to Afrobeat beach parties, West Africa delivers experiences that linger long after the tan fades.
Sunset at Lake Retba (Senegal): This pink lake glows as the sun dips, and you can even float thanks to its salty density.
Festivals in Burkina Faso: Plan your trip around FESPACO (the continent’s biggest film fest) or a local mask festival.
Live music in Bamako or Abidjan: West Africa is a powerhouse of sound, djembe jams, Afrobeat, coupé-décalé, and more.
Benin’s stilt villages and sacred forests: Explore Ganvié by canoe or visit Ouidah’s Vodun temples and serpentine shrines.
Togo’s palm-lined beaches: Less touristy than you’d expect, and full of charm.
Getting Around: Bush Taxis, Border Hacks & Buses
- Bush taxis (sept-place): Shared long-distance taxis that fill up before they go. They’re bumpy but atmospheric.
- Minibuses (aka “Gbakas” or “Sotrama”): Cheap and chaotic, but part of the fun.
- Domestic flights: Helpful for skipping long road journeys, check Air Côte d’Ivoire or ASKY Airlines.
- Visas: Research requirements, some borders are more relaxed than others.
- SIM cards: Easy to buy on arrival. Orange and MTN are the big players.
Bonus Tips: Money, Maps & Mindset
- Get your CFA francs in advance, especially for your first few days. Cash is king in most places, and ATMs aren’t always reliable.
- Offline maps are your friend. Download Maps.me or Google Maps areas ahead of time.
- Embrace the unexpected. Schedules are flexible. Power cuts happen. And sometimes the best memories come from moments you didn’t plan.
Ready for West Africa?
This region is complex, soulful, and utterly magnetic. Whether you’re diving into the chaos of a market in Ouagadougou or sipping bissap under the stars in Cotonou, you’re in for something special. So book that flight. Pack that wrap. And don’t forget those francs.
Bon voyage!
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