Port
Lome, Togo
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$309
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 5 Hours
Meals Included
Meals included
The sacred Vodoun religion is practiced all along the coast of Benin and Togo and has been passed down through the generations. The religious experience is much richer and more complex than westerners can imagine. These Vodoun practices are not a form of black magic. To millions both here and abroad, Vodoun represents a religion that gives meaning and order to their lives.
Witness this special religion with the people of Aneho. Just like most towns and villages, it has several Vodoun temples and cloisters of the Zangbéto, the traditional guardians of the night that watch over the village. In the night when the Zangbéto patrols the village, no one is supposed to see them. They wear raffia palms from head to toe to look like a haystack which is the costume you will see today.
During the ceremony, amidst the frenetic rhythm of drums and chants of followers, the Zangbéto falls into a deep state of trance and takes possession of some of the dancers. Even though their masks fall away, you will not be able to see the person under the mask as they will have transformed into an animal. You will leave the village not only awed by this experience but gain a better understanding of this sacred religion. Check your inhibitions at the door and bring your spirit of adventure on this very real and very raw experience.
Please note:
Ceremony may include animal sacrifice. Please consider this prior to booking. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Wear sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring a hat.