Mary Fitzpatrick, Matt Phillips, Tim Bewer, Jean-Bernard Carillet, Paul Clammer

Salt caravans in the Sahara, imposing forts on the Ghanaian coast, urban buzz in Lagos, the steamy lushness of Casamance- West Africa's attractions are as diverse as they are intriguing. Whether you want to set out for Timbuktu, laze on a sandy beach or overland it from desert to jungle, Lonely Planet shows you the what, where and how.

Move To The Groove - our expert music chapter tell who's who, where it's happening and what's hot.

Be Inspired - highlights, itineraries and planning sections help you plot your path.

Get The Background with in-depth discussion of West Africa's history, manifold cultures and distinctive arts and crafts.

Talk The Talk - our language chapter will have you greeting locals in 25 regional languages.

Go Your Own Way with detailed transport information and 150 user-friendly maps.