Frequently asked questions

Traveling to West Africa can be safe and enjoyable, especially when you partner with experienced operators like West Africa Tracks. While certain areas may have safety concerns, our company prioritizes your well-being by providing expert local guides and meticulously planned itineraries. We ensure you experience the rich culture, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes of West Africa in a secure and sustainable manner. Our deep local knowledge allows us to navigate any potential risks effectively, offering you a worry-free and unforgettable journey. Always follow our travel advice and guidelines for the safest experience.

At West Africa Tracks, our guides are proficient in multiple languages to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for all our guests. They predominantly speak English and French, which are widely used across West Africa. Additionally, many of our guides are fluent in local languages and dialects, providing deeper cultural immersion and more meaningful interactions with local communities. We also have Russian, Italian and Spanish speaking guides available.

Yes, most travelers will need a visa to visit West Africa. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the specific countries you will be visiting as part of your itinerary. We recommend checking the specific visa requirements for each country on your travel route and applying well in advance. As a tour operator we can provide you with all the documents required for the visa application at the local embassy or consulate. We do also work together with a visa agency, that can request the visa on your behalf or provide additional support and advice, please let us know if you want to make use of that service. Cost may vary.

Yes, vaccinations are recommended for travel through West Africa to ensure your safety and well-being. Common vaccinations advised for West African countries include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Cholera, Yellow Fever, Meningitis, and Polio. Additionally, you may need to take antimalarial medication depending on the specific regions you will be visiting. It's crucial to consult with a travel medicine specialist or your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to get personalized advice based on your health history and the itinerary provided by West Africa Tracks.

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for any trip with West Africa Tracks. Our adventures often involve travel to remote locations and engaging in activities that may carry inherent risks. Travel insurance provides coverage for unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen incidents. This ensures you can focus on enjoying your experience, knowing that you are protected. Additionally, some countries in West Africa may require proof of travel insurance for entry. We suggest discussing your insurance needs with a trusted provider to secure a policy that includes comprehensive coverage tailored to adventure travel.

The festivals offered by West Africa Tracks are genuinely authentic cultural events. At West Africa Tracks, we pride ourselves on providing travelers with true, immersive experiences. Our team of expert local guides have deep-rooted connections within their communities, ensuring that the festivals we feature are not staged for tourists but are traditional celebrations enjoyed by the local populace. By participating in these vibrant events, you gain a unique and meaningful insight into West African culture and heritage. Plus, our commitment to sustainable travel means that your participation helps support and preserve these important cultural festivities.

At West Africa Tracks, we prioritize your comfort and immersion in the local culture while traveling. Our accommodation options range from hotels, eco-friendly lodges and boutique hotels to traditional guesthouses and tented camps. Each accommodation is carefully selected to reflect the authentic spirit of the region, offering you a unique blend of comfort and cultural richness. Many of our accommodations are committed to sustainable practices, ensuring that your stay benefits local communities and respects the environment. No matter where you stay, you can expect welcoming hospitality and the chance to experience the true essence of West Africa.

Absolutely! At West Africa Tracks, we understand the allure of West Africa's stunning coastlines and pristine beaches. If you'd like to extend your trip to include a few relaxing beach days, our team can seamlessly integrate this into your itinerary. Whether you desire a serene retreat on the beaches of Ghana, a dive into the vibrant marine life of Senegal, our expert local guides are well-versed in the best spots to ensure your beach experience is as authentic and unforgettable as the rest of your journey. Simply let us know your preferences and we’ll tailor the extension to match your desires.

Most countries in West Africa use a voltage of 220-240V with a frequency of 50 Hz. The common plug types are Type C (two round pins), Type D (three round pins in a triangular pattern), and Type E and F (two round pins with an earth pin). To prepare for your trip, we recommend bringing a universal travel adapter compatible with these plug types. Additionally, consider carrying a power bank or portable charger for any remote excursions where electricity may be less accessible. Our expert local guides can provide further assistance and advice to ensure your travel experience is both safe and memorable.

At West Africa Tracks, we understand that capturing memories is an important part of your travel experience. While you are encouraged to take photos in many of the beautiful and unique places we visit, there are some guidelines to follow. In certain areas, especially sacred sites, cultural landmarks, and some local communities, photography might be restricted to respect local customs and privacy. Our expert local guides will always inform you in advance about any specific restrictions and will help you navigate these respectfully. This ensures a responsible and sustainable travel experience, allowing you to enjoy and photograph your adventure while honoring local traditions and environments.

The best season to travel to West Africa is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions, with less rainfall, cooler temperatures, and clearer skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and cultural explorations. Traveling during the dry season allows you to fully experience the diverse landscapes, vibrant festivals, and rich traditions that West Africa has to offer, all while enjoying comfortable travel conditions facilitated by our expert local guides. Additionally, this season supports sustainable travel practices as it helps minimize the environmental impact caused by the heavy rains and ensures that your adventure with West Africa Tracks is both unforgettable and meaningful.

We recommend bringing a backpack or a soft-sided duffel bag, as they are easier to carry and more practical for West Africa’s varied terrain. Roads and pathways can be uneven, and rolling suitcases may not be ideal in rural areas.

For shorter trips or excursions, a daypack is useful for carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, and a camera. Pack light, as you may need to move your luggage yourself at times.

West Africa has a warm climate, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Here’s a general packing guide:

• Light, loose-fitting clothing – Helps with heat and humidity.

• Long sleeves and pants – For sun protection and to prevent mosquito bites.

• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals – For exploring cities and rural areas.

• A hat & sunglasses – Essential for sun protection.

• Light jacket or sweater – Nights can be cooler, especially in the Sahel region.

• Swimwear – If your itinerary includes beaches or pools.

• Modest clothing – In some areas, especially villages and religious sites, dressing conservatively is appreciated.

• Rain jacket or poncho – If traveling during the rainy season (May–October in some areas).

• Scarf or shawl – Useful for dust, sun protection, or visiting religious sites.

• Insect-repellent clothing – Optional but helpful in areas with mosquitoes.

A: Yes, West Africa Tracks ensures that you stay connected during your adventure. While Wi-Fi and mobile internet access can be sporadic in some of the more remote areas we explore, our accommodations and main stops generally provide Wi-Fi. Additionally, most urban areas and popular locations have mobile internet coverage. We recommend checking with your mobile provider for international roaming options to ensure you have the best connectivity throughout your journey.

A local SIM card with a data plan is a good option for staying connected, our guides can help you with that upon arrival. Local SIM cards are available in most countries and can be purchased at airports or mobile provider shops. You will need an unlocked phone to use them. Data plans are generally affordable and provide good coverage in urban areas.

When traveling with West Africa Tracks, obtaining local currency is straightforward and essential for a smooth experience. You can exchange your money at international airports upon arrival, local banks, or authorized exchange bureaus in major cities. It's advisable to carry some USD or EUR, as these are widely accepted and can be easily converted to local currency.

As for credit and debit cards, their acceptance varies depending on the country and region you are visiting. In larger cities and tourist areas, you will find many hotels, restaurants, and businesses that do accept Visa and MasterCard. However, it's important to note that in rural areas and smaller towns, card usage might be limited. Therefore, we recommend carrying sufficient cash for smaller expenses and remote excursions.

For your convenience, ATMs are available in most major cities, but be sure to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with card usage. Also, check with your bank regarding foreign transaction fees and ATM withdrawal fees, which can add to your costs. By planning ahead, you can ensure you have the necessary funds to fully enjoy your adventure with West Africa Tracks.

Absolutely! At West Africa Tracks, we are committed to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all our guests. We understand that dietary needs vary greatly and are happy to accommodate a wide range of requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special dietary preferences. Please inform us of your specific dietary needs when booking your tour, and along with our expert local guides, will make all necessary arrangements. Your health and satisfaction are our top priorities, so you can focus on immersing yourself in the unforgettable and meaningful adventures we offer across West Africa.

Drinking tap water in West Africa is generally not recommended for travelers due to potential health risks. At West Africa Tracks, we prioritize your safety and well-being, which is why we provide safe drinking water throughout your journey. Our expert local guides will ensure you have access to bottled or properly filtered water at all times. Additionally, we recommend bringing a portable water purifier or using purification tablets as an extra precaution. By following these guidelines, you can stay hydrated and healthy while enjoying your unforgettable adventure with us!

At West Africa Tracks, we aim to make every journey special and seamless. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service. If you feel compelled to tip, here's a general guideline:

For our expert local guides, a tip of $10-$20 per day is customary, depending on the group size and length of the tour. For our diligent drivers, $5-$10 per day is appreciated.

Additionally, if you encounter other support staff such as porters or camp helpers, a modest tip of $2-$5 can go a long way in showing your gratitude.

Remember, tipping is at your discretion and should be reflective of the level of service you receive. Your generosity not only rewards service excellence but also contributes to the livelihoods of the people who make your travel experience memorable.