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Ghana

Rhythms of Ghana: Music, Dance, and Wildlife Discovery — Custom School Trips

Groups of 8+ | Custom Dates | 6 Service Hours | Fully Supported | 4.9 on GoOverseas

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Explore what makes Ghana unique during this program that offers amazing opportunities to learn about the country’s traditional arts and wildlife. Join in classes at the Bizung School of Music and Dance where you’ll play traditional instruments and try Ghanaian rhythms. Join in a concert and visit an art exhibit. Then change the pace and go on safari by vehicle, foot and canoe! Search for elephants, baboons, warthogs and more. Wrap up the program in the capital city of Accra where you’ll learn about the country’s history from its pre-colonial past until today. This is a truly unique program!

Custom School Trip

Contact us for a custom quote

Custom dates & duration. Groups of 8+.

Response within 1 business day

Anna Beckerman

Anna Beckerman

Head of School Group Travel

Dartmouth · 15 years at Rustic

321+ school partners since 2010

What Does a 9-Day Program Include?

A typical program. Daily activities are subject to change based on group logistics and weather.

1

Departure for Ghana

Arrive at the airport where you'll meet your group. Check in, go through security, and get acquainted with your fellow travelers as you prepare for your upcoming journey!
2

Welcome to Ghana

Upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), you'll be warmly greeted by your program leaders who will accompany you throughout the duration of the program. From there, you'll head to the vibrant capital city of Accra, where you can settle in and unwind after your long flight. Take some time to relax and acclimate to your new surroundings, allowing yourself to adjust to the rhythm of life in Accra. Later, join the group for an orientation discussion about the exciting week ahead, gaining insights into the local culture and customs that will enrich your experience in Ghana. Flight Details: Rustic Pathways is happy to book your flights as an optional add-on service. Overnight: Hostel, Accra
3

Fly to Tamale

Board a plane for a quick fifty-minute flight from Accra to Tamale, the bustling capital of the Northern Region. Start your day with a stop at a local bakery for a quick breakfast before diving into the vibrant atmosphere of this Muslim-majority city. Get acquainted with Tamale as you explore its cultural and economic hub, visiting landmarks such as the Tamale Central Mosque and the bustling Tamale Market. Here, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of traditional smocks, fabrics, beads, and an array of delectable food products. Continue your exploration at the art market, where you can shop for handicrafts, jewelry, masks, paintings, and more, supporting local artisans. Finally, make your way to the Bizung School of Music & Dance, where you'll meet the director and prepare for your upcoming musical adventure in Tamale. Overnight: Guesthouse, Tamale
4

Ghanaian Music Lessons

Get acquainted with the rich musical traditions of Ghana as you embark on a day of music exploration. Learn about traditional music, drumming, and dancing from local experts, gaining insight into the cultural significance of each rhythm and movement. Get introduced to well-known Ghanaian drumming rhythms using instruments such as the djembe and the talking drum, allowing yourself to fully experience the vibrant beats and melodies. After a full day of musical discovery, venture to a nearby village to experience the day-to-day life of families in northern Ghana. Gain firsthand insight into their traditions, customs, and daily routines, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the local culture and way of life. Overnight: Guesthouse, Tamale
5

Making Music

Engage in extensive music lessons, exploring various local musical instruments and traditional songs. Experiment with different rhythms and delight in the process of making music, allowing your creativity to flow. Further your exploration of the arts with a visit to the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art, founded by Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama. Witness the evolution of the contemporary art scene in the region, gaining insights into the diverse expressions of Ghanaian culture. Conclude the day with a mid-trip discussion, where you'll reflect on the experiences and lessons learned so far. Share your insights and observations with your fellow travelers, deepening your understanding of the cultural journey. Overnight: Guesthouse, Tamale
6

Concert Time & Off to a Safari!

Conclude your time with the Bizung Band by taking part in a concert, where you'll showcase what you've learned about the various local instruments, dances, and more. Bid farewell to your newfound friends before hopping into the van for a two-hour drive to Mole National Park. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation before heading deep into the park on a thrilling driving safari. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, baboons, patas monkeys, buffalo, antelope, hartebeest, and more as you traverse the expansive landscapes. After a long day of travel and safari adventures, unwind with a hearty dinner and settle in for a restful night's sleep, ready to continue your exploration of the park the next day. Overnight: Mole Safari Resort, Mole National Park
7

Walking Safari

Begin your day with an exhilarating walking safari, as you spot elephants and birds while basking in the beauty of the sunrise. Accompanied by a park ranger, approach wildlife at safe distances, ensuring a memorable and safe experience. After two hours of exploration, head back to your hotel for a hearty breakfast. Then, unwind with a peaceful canoe safari along the Mole River, venturing into more remote parts of the park and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. Return to dry land and journey to Mognori village to gain insight into the local way of life. Explore traditions such as weaving and shea butter making, and perhaps even meet the traditional village chief if time permits. Wrap up the day with your final driving safari, hoping to spot more wildlife as you venture deep into the park. With memories of the day's adventures in mind, return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest. Overnight: Mole Safari Resort, Mole National Park
8

Farewell to the Local Wildlife

Conclude your adventure with one final walking safari, immersing yourself in the company of wildlife as you soak in the last hours of your journey. Afterward, drive to the city of Tamale for souvenir shopping at the Tamale Cultural Center, where you can find unique mementos to cherish your time in Ghana. Fly back to Accra and settle into your accommodations, reflecting on the memories made during your expedition. Wrap up the day with the traditional Rustic Ties ceremony, providing an opportunity for students to reflect on their experiences and discuss how to apply the lessons learned in their own lives. Overnight: Hostel, Accra
9

Accra and Me Da Ase to Ghana

Make the most of your final moments in Ghana before heading to the airport. Depending on flight schedules, you may have the opportunity to explore the bustling Accra Makola Market, sampling local wares and foods, or visit the Ghana National Museum to learn more about the country's rich pre-colonial history. Alternatively, you could head to the Accra Arts Center to bargain for paintings, masks, and other crafts, adding a piece of Ghanaian culture to your memories. No matter how you spend your day, cherish your last moments in Ghana before bidding farewell to your program leaders at the airport. Reflect on the experiences and memories made during your time in this vibrant country. Flight Details: Rustic Pathways is happy to book your flights as an optional add-on service.

How Does Rustic Pathways Handle Safety?

24/7 Support

In-person staff + US emergency line

Trained Program Leaders

Background-checked, first-aid certified, deep local knowledge

Licensed & Insured Transport

Risk management plans for every program

Customizable Itinerary

Custom dates and duration

Ghana

What Do School Organizers Ask?

How do flights work?

School groups can arrange their own flights, or Rustic Pathways can arrange them as an optional add-on. In either case, teachers fly with students, and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup and handles all in-country logistics.

What's included in the price?

Included: Lodging, all meals, in-country transport, all activities, 24/7 staff.
Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, personal spending ($150–200).

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not included in the program fee. Rustic Pathways recommends that families purchase travel insurance. Get a quote from our recommended provider →

Who supervises the students?

Rustic Pathways Program Leaders complete a four-month vetting process, and programs maintain a 7:1 student-to-staff ratio. All Program Leaders are first-aid certified, and most have led multiple Rustic Pathways programs. Leaders range from 25 to 35 years old.

Are rooms gender-separated?

Yes. Students room with same-gender peers. Staff stay in adjacent rooms.

What about medical emergencies?

All Program Leaders are first-aid certified. Nearest hospitals are mapped out in all locations. Our health & safety team reviews all medical forms before departure and works with families to plan medications, allergies, and dietary needs.

Can students contact home?

Yes. Rustic Pathways’ policy is that students can call, text, or WhatsApp anytime. Rustic Pathways is happy to defer to established school policies instead.

How do families stay informed?

Rustic Pathways sends daily photo updates throughout the program.

How big is the group?

Group size varies based on the school’s needs. Contact Rustic Pathways for a custom quote.

Can friends room together?

Yes. Rustic Pathways provides a room list prior to travel. Schools can assign rooming allocations or allow students to choose their roommates.

Will students have unsupervised time?

Structured independence with staff nearby. No unsupervised time in public areas.

Can Rustic Pathways accommodate food allergies? 

Yes. Dietary needs are collected during enrollment and shared with all meal providers.

How much spending money should students have?

$150–200 recommended. Tipping is included, no extra cash needed.

What if a student gets homesick?

Homesickness can be common during the first few days; Rustic Pathways is well-prepared. See how staff support students through homesickness

Does Rustic Pathways support neurodiverse students?

Rustic Pathways welcomes all students. Read how Rustic Pathways supports neurodiverse students.

What Should Teachers Know?

Which students thrive on this program?
Students who are curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences. No prior travel experience is required.
What will students do each day?
Each day includes a mix of structured activities, cultural experiences, and group time. See the itinerary above for a day-by-day overview.
Ghana offers a unique combination of cultural richness, safety, and meaningful engagement opportunities for student groups. Rustic Pathways has operated programs here for years and maintains strong local partnerships.
How Do Flights Work?
School groups can arrange their own flights, or Rustic Pathways can arrange them as an optional add-on. In either case, teachers fly with students, and Rustic Pathways program leaders meet the group at the arrival airport and manage all in-country logistics from there.
What Meals Are Included?
All meals included. Dietary needs accommodated.
Included:
  • All lodging
  • All meals
  • In-country transport
  • All activities and excursions
  • 24/7 staff support
Not Included:
  • International airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending money

What Other Program Types Are Available?