10 Day Juneteenth Journey

or comparable hotel

day one

Arrive in Accra

Upon arrival at Accra International Airport in Accra, you’ll make your way through immigration and collect your luggage. Once you exit the Arrivals area, your LeapGhana guides will be waiting to welcome you to Ghana. If you arrive in the evening, we’ll have light snacks available in case you’re hungry after the long journey. From the airport, we’ll travel directly to the hotel for check-in and time to settle in and rest. Later in the day, depending on the group’s arrival times and how everyone is feeling, we’ll visit Independence Square and the Black Star Gate, where you’ll be introduced to the story of Ghana’s independence in 1957 and the significance of the Black Star as a symbol of African freedom. In the evening, we’ll officially begin our journey together with introductions, welcome drinks, and dinner accompanied by the rhythms of traditional Ghanaian drumming. It will be our first opportunity to relax, get to know one another, and celebrate the beginning of our Juneteenth journey through Ghana.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Two

Ghana’s Story of Heritage & Independence

Shortly after breakfast, we’ll begin the day at the National Museum of Ghana, where we’ll explore Ghana’s history, cultural heritage, and the stories that have shaped the nation. From there, we’ll visit Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the final resting place of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first prime minister and president and a leading figure in the country’s independence movement. After lunch, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Relax at the hotel, spend some time at the beach, or simply unwind before the evening. For those who would like to experience another side of the city, we’ll offer an optional night out in Accra, where you can enjoy the energy, music, and nightlife of Ghana’s capital.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Two

Ghana’s Story of Heritage & Independence

Shortly after breakfast, we’ll begin the day at the National Museum of Ghana, where we’ll explore Ghana’s history, cultural heritage, and the stories that have shaped the nation. From there, we’ll visit Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the final resting place of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first prime minister and president and a leading figure in the country’s independence movement. After lunch, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Relax at the hotel, spend some time at the beach, or simply unwind before the evening. For those who would like to experience another side of the city, we’ll offer an optional night out in Accra, where you can enjoy the energy, music, and nightlife of Ghana’s capital.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Three

Aburi Botanical Gardens & Asenema Waterfall - Night in Accra

After breakfast, we’ll travel to the beautiful Aburi Botanical Gardens, where you’ll discover a variety of tropical plants, trees, and herbs while learning about their traditional uses and importance in Ghanaian culture. From Aburi, we’ll continue to the picturesque Asenema Waterfall, tucked away in the lush greenery of Ghana’s Eastern Region. Take time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, capture some photos, or cool off in the refreshing water—so don’t forget your swimsuit if you’d like to take a dip! On our journey back to Accra, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch before returning to the hotel, where you’ll have the remainder of the day to relax and unwind.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Three

Aburi Botanical Gardens & Asenema Waterfall - Night in Accra

After breakfast, we’ll travel to the beautiful Aburi Botanical Gardens, where you’ll discover a variety of tropical plants, trees, and herbs while learning about their traditional uses and importance in Ghanaian culture. From Aburi, we’ll continue to the picturesque Asenema Waterfall, tucked away in the lush greenery of Ghana’s Eastern Region. Take time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, capture some photos, or cool off in the refreshing water—so don’t forget your swimsuit if you’d like to take a dip! On our journey back to Accra, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch before returning to the hotel, where you’ll have the remainder of the day to relax and unwind.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Four

Cape Coast - Creativity, History & Remembrance

After breakfast, we’ll leave Accra and begin our journey to Cape Coast, approximately a three-hour drive along Ghana’s coastline. As we travel into the Central Region, we’ll leave the energy of the capital behind and enter an area deeply connected to Ghana’s history and the story of the African diaspora. Our first experience will be a hands-on batik-making workshop, where local artisans will introduce us to the traditional process of creating beautiful patterned fabrics using wax and dye. You’ll have the opportunity to select your designs and create your own batik piece. Beginning the workshop early in the day will give our creations time to dry while we continue exploring Cape Coast, allowing everyone to take home their finished piece as a personal keepsake from Ghana. After our workshop, we’ll enjoy lunch together before continuing to one of the most significant and moving experiences of our Juneteenth journey. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Cape Coast Castle, one of the most important sites associated with the transatlantic slave trade. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, we’ll walk through the castle and its dungeons, learning about the men and women who were imprisoned within its walls before being forced through the Door of No Return and onto ships bound for the Americas. Our visit will provide time not only to learn, but also to remember and reflect. As we commemorate Juneteenth in Ghana, Cape Coast Castle offers a profound connection between the history experienced on these shores and the generations of African descendants whose stories continued across the Atlantic. We’ll conclude the day carrying with us two very different expressions of Ghana’s story: the creativity and traditions that continue to thrive today, and the history and ancestors whose experiences must never be forgotten.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Four

Cape Coast - Creativity, History & Remembrance

After breakfast, we’ll leave Accra and begin our journey to Cape Coast, approximately a three-hour drive along Ghana’s coastline. As we travel into the Central Region, we’ll leave the energy of the capital behind and enter an area deeply connected to Ghana’s history and the story of the African diaspora. Our first experience will be a hands-on batik-making workshop, where local artisans will introduce us to the traditional process of creating beautiful patterned fabrics using wax and dye. You’ll have the opportunity to select your designs and create your own batik piece. Beginning the workshop early in the day will give our creations time to dry while we continue exploring Cape Coast, allowing everyone to take home their finished piece as a personal keepsake from Ghana. After our workshop, we’ll enjoy lunch together before continuing to one of the most significant and moving experiences of our Juneteenth journey. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Cape Coast Castle, one of the most important sites associated with the transatlantic slave trade. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, we’ll walk through the castle and its dungeons, learning about the men and women who were imprisoned within its walls before being forced through the Door of No Return and onto ships bound for the Americas. Our visit will provide time not only to learn, but also to remember and reflect. As we commemorate Juneteenth in Ghana, Cape Coast Castle offers a profound connection between the history experienced on these shores and the generations of African descendants whose stories continued across the Atlantic. We’ll conclude the day carrying with us two very different expressions of Ghana’s story: the creativity and traditions that continue to thrive today, and the history and ancestors whose experiences must never be forgotten.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Four

Cape Coast - Creativity, History & Remembrance

After breakfast, we’ll leave Accra and begin our journey to Cape Coast, approximately a three-hour drive along Ghana’s coastline. As we travel into the Central Region, we’ll leave the energy of the capital behind and enter an area deeply connected to Ghana’s history and the story of the African diaspora. Our first experience will be a hands-on batik-making workshop, where local artisans will introduce us to the traditional process of creating beautiful patterned fabrics using wax and dye. You’ll have the opportunity to select your designs and create your own batik piece. Beginning the workshop early in the day will give our creations time to dry while we continue exploring Cape Coast, allowing everyone to take home their finished piece as a personal keepsake from Ghana. After our workshop, we’ll enjoy lunch together before continuing to one of the most significant and moving experiences of our Juneteenth journey. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Cape Coast Castle, one of the most important sites associated with the transatlantic slave trade. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, we’ll walk through the castle and its dungeons, learning about the men and women who were imprisoned within its walls before being forced through the Door of No Return and onto ships bound for the Americas. Our visit will provide time not only to learn, but also to remember and reflect. As we commemorate Juneteenth in Ghana, Cape Coast Castle offers a profound connection between the history experienced on these shores and the generations of African descendants whose stories continued across the Atlantic. We’ll conclude the day carrying with us two very different expressions of Ghana’s story: the creativity and traditions that continue to thrive today, and the history and ancestors whose experiences must never be forgotten.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Five

Elmina - Remembrance, Reconnection & Renewal

In the morning, we’ll travel to Elmina Castle for a powerful and moving journey through one of West Africa’s most significant sites associated with the transatlantic slave trade. As we walk through the castle and its dungeons, we’ll learn about the experiences of the men and women who were held there and reflect on the lasting connection between Ghana and the African diaspora. For lunch, you’ll have the option to participate in a Ghanaian cooking class, where you’ll get a hands-on introduction to local ingredients, flavors, and traditional dishes—and enjoy the meal you help prepare. Those who prefer a slower afternoon are welcome to relax by the pool or spend some time enjoying the beach at the resort. In the evening, we’ll come together for a traditional Ghanaian naming ceremony, a meaningful cultural experience that celebrates identity, heritage, and connection. It will be a special way to close a day centered on remembrance, reflection, and reconnecting with Ghana’s living culture.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Five

Elmina - Remembrance, Reconnection & Renewal

In the morning, we’ll travel to Elmina Castle for a powerful and moving journey through one of West Africa’s most significant sites associated with the transatlantic slave trade. As we walk through the castle and its dungeons, we’ll learn about the experiences of the men and women who were held there and reflect on the lasting connection between Ghana and the African diaspora. For lunch, you’ll have the option to participate in a Ghanaian cooking class, where you’ll get a hands-on introduction to local ingredients, flavors, and traditional dishes—and enjoy the meal you help prepare. Those who prefer a slower afternoon are welcome to relax by the pool or spend some time enjoying the beach at the resort. In the evening, we’ll come together for a traditional Ghanaian naming ceremony, a meaningful cultural experience that celebrates identity, heritage, and connection. It will be a special way to close a day centered on remembrance, reflection, and reconnecting with Ghana’s living culture.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Five

Elmina - Remembrance, Reconnection & Renewal

In the morning, we’ll travel to Elmina Castle for a powerful and moving journey through one of West Africa’s most significant sites associated with the transatlantic slave trade. As we walk through the castle and its dungeons, we’ll learn about the experiences of the men and women who were held there and reflect on the lasting connection between Ghana and the African diaspora. For lunch, you’ll have the option to participate in a Ghanaian cooking class, where you’ll get a hands-on introduction to local ingredients, flavors, and traditional dishes—and enjoy the meal you help prepare. Those who prefer a slower afternoon are welcome to relax by the pool or spend some time enjoying the beach at the resort. In the evening, we’ll come together for a traditional Ghanaian naming ceremony, a meaningful cultural experience that celebrates identity, heritage, and connection. It will be a special way to close a day centered on remembrance, reflection, and reconnecting with Ghana’s living culture.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Six

Journey to Kumasi - Following the Ancestral Route

After breakfast, we’ll say goodbye to Elmina and begin our journey north toward Kumasi, the historic heart of the Ashanti Kingdom. Along the way, we’ll stop at Assin Manso, an important site along the route traveled by enslaved Africans who were forcibly marched from the interior of Ghana toward the coastal castles. Here, we’ll visit the Ancestral Slave River, known as Donkor Nsuo, where captives were given their “Last Bath” before continuing their journey to the coast. We’ll take time to learn, remember, and reflect on the lives of those who passed through this place. After our visit, we’ll stop for lunch before continuing through Ghana’s beautiful forest region toward Kumasi. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel and have the remainder of the evening to relax and prepare for our exploration of Ashanti history and culture.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Six

Journey to Kumasi - Following the Ancestral Route

After breakfast, we’ll say goodbye to Elmina and begin our journey north toward Kumasi, the historic heart of the Ashanti Kingdom. Along the way, we’ll stop at Assin Manso, an important site along the route traveled by enslaved Africans who were forcibly marched from the interior of Ghana toward the coastal castles. Here, we’ll visit the Ancestral Slave River, known as Donkor Nsuo, where captives were given their “Last Bath” before continuing their journey to the coast. We’ll take time to learn, remember, and reflect on the lives of those who passed through this place. After our visit, we’ll stop for lunch before continuing through Ghana’s beautiful forest region toward Kumasi. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel and have the remainder of the evening to relax and prepare for our exploration of Ashanti history and culture.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Six

Journey to Kumasi - Following the Ancestral Route

After breakfast, we’ll say goodbye to Elmina and begin our journey north toward Kumasi, the historic heart of the Ashanti Kingdom. Along the way, we’ll stop at Assin Manso, an important site along the route traveled by enslaved Africans who were forcibly marched from the interior of Ghana toward the coastal castles. Here, we’ll visit the Ancestral Slave River, known as Donkor Nsuo, where captives were given their “Last Bath” before continuing their journey to the coast. We’ll take time to learn, remember, and reflect on the lives of those who passed through this place. After our visit, we’ll stop for lunch before continuing through Ghana’s beautiful forest region toward Kumasi. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel and have the remainder of the evening to relax and prepare for our exploration of Ashanti history and culture.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Seven

Kumasi - The Heart of the Ashanti Kingdom

After breakfast, we’ll begin our exploration of Kumasi, the historic and cultural heart of the Ashanti Kingdom. Our first visit will be the Manhyia Palace Museum, where we’ll learn about the history of the Ashanti monarchy, the role of the Asantehene (King of the Ashanti people), and the traditions that have shaped the kingdom for generations. Through royal artifacts, photographs, ceremonial objects, and stories, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of one of Ghana’s most influential kingdoms. From there, we’ll visit the Okomfo Anokye Sword Site, one of the most important symbols of Ashanti unity. According to Ashanti tradition, the legendary priest Okomfo Anokye planted the sword into the ground centuries ago, where it remains today. We’ll hear the story behind the sword and its connection to the founding and spiritual identity of the Ashanti Kingdom. In the afternoon, we’ll experience the sights, sounds, and energy of Kejetia Market, Kumasi’s enormous central marketplace. Here, you’ll see everything from colorful fabrics and spices to produce, household goods, traditional medicines, and everyday commerce—a fascinating glimpse into daily life in Kumasi. We’ll finish our afternoon at the Kumasi Cultural Centre, where we can explore Ghanaian arts and craftsmanship and watch local artisans practicing traditional skills such as wood carving and brass work. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel for an evening of relaxation.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Seven

Kumasi - The Heart of the Ashanti Kingdom

After breakfast, we’ll begin our exploration of Kumasi, the historic and cultural heart of the Ashanti Kingdom. Our first visit will be the Manhyia Palace Museum, where we’ll learn about the history of the Ashanti monarchy, the role of the Asantehene (King of the Ashanti people), and the traditions that have shaped the kingdom for generations. Through royal artifacts, photographs, ceremonial objects, and stories, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of one of Ghana’s most influential kingdoms. From there, we’ll visit the Okomfo Anokye Sword Site, one of the most important symbols of Ashanti unity. According to Ashanti tradition, the legendary priest Okomfo Anokye planted the sword into the ground centuries ago, where it remains today. We’ll hear the story behind the sword and its connection to the founding and spiritual identity of the Ashanti Kingdom. In the afternoon, we’ll experience the sights, sounds, and energy of Kejetia Market, Kumasi’s enormous central marketplace. Here, you’ll see everything from colorful fabrics and spices to produce, household goods, traditional medicines, and everyday commerce—a fascinating glimpse into daily life in Kumasi. We’ll finish our afternoon at the Kumasi Cultural Centre, where we can explore Ghanaian arts and craftsmanship and watch local artisans practicing traditional skills such as wood carving and brass work. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel for an evening of relaxation.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Seven

Kumasi - The Heart of the Ashanti Kingdom

After breakfast, we’ll begin our exploration of Kumasi, the historic and cultural heart of the Ashanti Kingdom. Our first visit will be the Manhyia Palace Museum, where we’ll learn about the history of the Ashanti monarchy, the role of the Asantehene (King of the Ashanti people), and the traditions that have shaped the kingdom for generations. Through royal artifacts, photographs, ceremonial objects, and stories, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of one of Ghana’s most influential kingdoms. From there, we’ll visit the Okomfo Anokye Sword Site, one of the most important symbols of Ashanti unity. According to Ashanti tradition, the legendary priest Okomfo Anokye planted the sword into the ground centuries ago, where it remains today. We’ll hear the story behind the sword and its connection to the founding and spiritual identity of the Ashanti Kingdom. In the afternoon, we’ll experience the sights, sounds, and energy of Kejetia Market, Kumasi’s enormous central marketplace. Here, you’ll see everything from colorful fabrics and spices to produce, household goods, traditional medicines, and everyday commerce—a fascinating glimpse into daily life in Kumasi. We’ll finish our afternoon at the Kumasi Cultural Centre, where we can explore Ghanaian arts and craftsmanship and watch local artisans practicing traditional skills such as wood carving and brass work. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel for an evening of relaxation.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Eight

Kente, Cocoa & Adinkra - The Living Traditions of Ashanti

Today, we’ll leave central Kumasi and spend the day experiencing some of the living traditions that have made the Ashanti Region famous throughout Ghana and around the world. Our morning begins with a visit to a traditional Kente-weaving community, where we’ll meet local artisans and see how Ghana’s iconic Kente cloth is created by hand. We’ll learn about the weaving process, the meanings behind different colors and patterns, and the important role Kente plays in Ashanti history, celebrations, and identity. We’ll also visit a local cocoa farm to learn about one of Ghana’s most important crops. Walking among the cocoa trees, we’ll discover how cocoa pods are grown and harvested and how the beans eventually become chocolate. When available, we may even have the opportunity to open a fresh cocoa pod and taste the naturally sweet pulp surrounding the beans. After enjoying lunch, we’ll continue to Ntonso, known for its centuries-old tradition of Adinkra cloth making. Here, we’ll learn about the symbols and proverbs that communicate ideas about life, spirituality, strength, unity, leadership, and ancestry. We’ll see how traditional Adinkra dye is prepared and then have the opportunity to choose meaningful Adinkra symbols and stamp our own piece of fabric—creating a personal keepsake that carries a story and meaning unique to each traveler. After a full day immersed in Ashanti culture, craftsmanship, and tradition, we’ll return to Kumasi for our final evening in the city.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Eight

Kente, Cocoa & Adinkra - The Living Traditions of Ashanti

Today, we’ll leave central Kumasi and spend the day experiencing some of the living traditions that have made the Ashanti Region famous throughout Ghana and around the world. Our morning begins with a visit to a traditional Kente-weaving community, where we’ll meet local artisans and see how Ghana’s iconic Kente cloth is created by hand. We’ll learn about the weaving process, the meanings behind different colors and patterns, and the important role Kente plays in Ashanti history, celebrations, and identity. We’ll also visit a local cocoa farm to learn about one of Ghana’s most important crops. Walking among the cocoa trees, we’ll discover how cocoa pods are grown and harvested and how the beans eventually become chocolate. When available, we may even have the opportunity to open a fresh cocoa pod and taste the naturally sweet pulp surrounding the beans. After enjoying lunch, we’ll continue to Ntonso, known for its centuries-old tradition of Adinkra cloth making. Here, we’ll learn about the symbols and proverbs that communicate ideas about life, spirituality, strength, unity, leadership, and ancestry. We’ll see how traditional Adinkra dye is prepared and then have the opportunity to choose meaningful Adinkra symbols and stamp our own piece of fabric—creating a personal keepsake that carries a story and meaning unique to each traveler. After a full day immersed in Ashanti culture, craftsmanship, and tradition, we’ll return to Kumasi for our final evening in the city.

Accommodation:

or comparable hotel

Day Eight

Kente, Cocoa & Adinkra - The Living Traditions of Ashanti

Today, we’ll leave central Kumasi and spend the day experiencing some of the living traditions that have made the Ashanti Region famous throughout Ghana and around the world. Our morning begins with a visit to a traditional Kente-weaving community, where we’ll meet local artisans and see how Ghana’s iconic Kente cloth is created by hand. We’ll learn about the weaving process, the meanings behind different colors and patterns, and the important role Kente plays in Ashanti history, celebrations, and identity. We’ll also visit a local cocoa farm to learn about one of Ghana’s most important crops. Walking among the cocoa trees, we’ll discover how cocoa pods are grown and harvested and how the beans eventually become chocolate. When available, we may even have the opportunity to open a fresh cocoa pod and taste the naturally sweet pulp surrounding the beans. After enjoying lunch, we’ll continue to Ntonso, known for its centuries-old tradition of Adinkra cloth making. Here, we’ll learn about the symbols and proverbs that communicate ideas about life, spirituality, strength, unity, leadership, and ancestry. We’ll see how traditional Adinkra dye is prepared and then have the opportunity to choose meaningful Adinkra symbols and stamp our own piece of fabric—creating a personal keepsake that carries a story and meaning unique to each traveler. After a full day immersed in Ashanti culture, craftsmanship, and tradition, we’ll return to Kumasi for our final evening in the city.

Accommodation: