Google Maps West Africa

Explore the Best of West Africa

If you’re planning to visit West Africa, Google Maps is your ultimate travel companion. With its intuitive navigation, real-time traffic updates, and comprehensive guide to the region’s top attractions, Google Maps makes it easy to explore this vibrant and diverse part of the world.

Top Attractions

West Africa is home to some of the most iconic attractions on the continent. From the stunning beaches of Dakar to the historic city of Accra, there’s something for everyone in this part of the world. Make sure to check out the following attractions:

• The Great Mosque of Djenné, Mali
• The Cape Coast Castle, Ghana
• The Dakar Grand Mosque, Senegal
• The Laongo Sculpture Symposium, Burkina Faso
• The Lekki Conservation Centre, Nigeria

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, West Africa won’t disappoint. From hidden waterfalls to secluded beaches, this region is full of surprises. Here are some hidden gems you should add to your itinerary:

• The Wli Waterfalls, Ghana
• The Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary, Ghana
• The Fajara War Cemetery, Gambia
• The Tiébélé Village, Burkina Faso
• The Bassari Country, Senegal

Food Scene

West Africa is known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions. From spicy stews to grilled meats, the food scene in this region is a feast for the senses. Make sure to try the following dishes:

• Jollof Rice, Nigeria
• Thiéboudienne, Senegal
• Fufu and Soup, Ghana
• Yassa Poulet, Gambia
• Akara, Nigeria

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget in West Africa is possible if you know where to look. Here are some money-saving tips:

• Take public transportation instead of taxis
• Eat at local markets instead of restaurants
• Stay in hostels or guesthouses instead of hotels
• Buy souvenirs directly from artisans
• Take advantage of free walking tours

Outdoor Adventures

West Africa is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, surfing, or wildlife watching, there’s something for everyone in this region. Here are some outdoor adventures you shouldn’t miss:

• Surfing in Dakar, Senegal
• Hiking in the Atlas Mountains, Morocco
• Wildlife watching in Pendjari National Park, Benin
• Snorkeling in the Bijagos Islands, Guinea-Bissau
• Rock climbing in Dogon Country, Mali

Historical Landmarks

West Africa has a rich and complex history that is reflected in its many historical landmarks. From ancient ruins to colonial forts, these sites offer a glimpse into the region’s past. Make sure to visit the following landmarks:

• The Elmina Castle, Ghana
• The Goree Island, Senegal
• The Djinguereber Mosque, Mali
• The Royal Palaces of Abomey, Benin
• The Zuma Rock, Nigeria

Family-Friendly Activities

West Africa is a great destination for families with children. From interactive museums to outdoor playgrounds, there are plenty of activities that will keep kids entertained. Here are some family-friendly activities you should consider:

• The Dakar Zoo, Senegal
• The Accra Mall, Ghana
• The National Museum of Mali, Mali
• The Lekki Conservation Centre, Nigeria
• The Badiar National Park, Guinea

Natural Wonders

West Africa is blessed with some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. From cascading waterfalls to vast deserts, these natural wonders will take your breath away. Here are some must-see natural wonders:

• The Okavango Delta, Botswana
• The Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe
• The Sahara Desert, Morocco to Mauritania
• The Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve, Guinea
• The Waza National Park, Cameroon

Vibrant Nightlife

If you’re looking for a good time after dark, West Africa won’t disappoint. From trendy nightclubs to traditional music venues, there’s plenty of nightlife options in this region. Here are some places to check out:

• The Shrine, Nigeria
• The Just 4 U, Ghana
• The Villa Krystal, Senegal
• The Chez Ntemba, Cameroon
• The Havana Cafe, Guinea-Bissau

Local Markets

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in West African culture is by exploring the local markets. From colorful textiles to exotic spices, these markets offer a glimpse into the region’s vibrant and diverse traditions. Make sure to visit the following markets:

• The Sandaga Market, Senegal
• The Kejetia Market, Ghana
• The Medina Market, Morocco
• The Lekki Market, Nigeria
• The Grand Marché, Burkina Faso

Beaches and Mountains

West Africa is known for its stunning beaches and majestic mountains. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or hike to the top of a peak, there’s something for everyone in this region. Here are some beaches and mountains you shouldn’t miss:

• The Labadi Beach, Ghana
• The Goree Island Beach, Senegal
• The Taghazout Beach, Morocco
• The Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
• The Mount Cameroon, Cameroon

Cultural Immersion

If you’re interested in experiencing West African culture firsthand, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. From traditional dance performances to local festivals, these experiences will give you a deeper understanding of the region’s rich and diverse traditions. Here are some cultural immersion activities you should consider:

• The Festival on the Niger, Mali
• The Bakatue Festival, Ghana
• The Kankouran Festival, Guinea
• The Festival Panafricain de Musique, Burkina Faso
• The Dak’Art Biennale, Senegal

Art and Music Scene

West Africa has a vibrant and dynamic art and music scene that has influenced cultures around the world. Whether you’re into traditional drumming or contemporary art, there’s something for everyone in this region. Here are some places to check out:

• The National Museum of Mali, Mali
• The Art Twenty One, Nigeria
• The Raw Material Company, Senegal
• The Nubuke Foundation, Ghana
• The Ouagadougou Jazz Festival, Burkina Faso

Walking Tours

If you’re looking to explore West African cities on foot, there are plenty of walking tours available. From historic neighborhoods to vibrant markets, these tours will give you a deeper understanding of the region’s rich and diverse history and culture. Here are some walking tours to consider:

• The Goree Island Walking Tour, Senegal
• The Jamestown Walking Tour, Ghana
• The Old Fes Walking Tour, Morocco
• The Bamako Walking Tour, Mali
• The Dakar Walking Tour, Senegal

Architectural Marvels

West Africa is home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in the world. From ancient mosques to colonial forts, these buildings are a testament to the region’s rich and diverse history. Here are some architectural marvels you shouldn’t miss:

• The Great Mosque of Djenné, Mali
• The St. George’s Castle, Ghana