Journey Overview
A LIVING ITINERARY
Because this journey is rooted in authentic community relationships rather than staged tourism, some experiences may naturally evolve. Conversations may last longer than expected. An invitation from a village Elder, a celebration, or an unexpected opportunity may become the highlight of the day. We intentionally leave room for these moments.
Day 1 - Arrive in Accra
Arrive in Ghana and settle into your hotel before gathering for our welcome dinner.
Meet fellow travelers, Campfire Tales founders Ryan McAbery and Betsy Benoit, BabaGigi founder Weston Cox, and our Ghanaian partners. Together we'll introduce the storytelling journey, the community we'll soon meet, and the role participants will play in BabaGigi's international translation pilot.
Days 2-6 Village Immersion
The heart of our journey begins in the Volta Region.
For five days you'll become part of village life—not as a tourist, but as a welcomed guest.
Experiences include:
- Learning the traditions of West African storytelling from Elders, the Chief, Queen, and community leaders
- Collaborating with local teachers and university partners
- Helping students discover and tell their own stories through interactive workshops
- Sharing meals and conversations with local families
- Learning traditional crafts, including bead making and other local arts
- Cooking alongside Ghanaian families
- Quiet time each day for writing, reflection, and personal story development
Throughout the week, participants will also help test BabaGigi's translation technology in authentic community conversations, exploring how emerging AI can strengthen communication while honoring the richness of human connection.
Rather than following a rigid schedule, each day unfolds naturally according to village life, community opportunities, and the relationships that develop.
Day 6 Community Story Night
Our time in Adaklu culminates with an evening around the bonfire.
Students, Elders, villagers, and participants gather to exchange stories—traditional, personal, humorous, and heartfelt.
This celebration reminds us that every culture carries wisdom, and every person carries a story worth telling.
Day 7 Journey to Cape Coast
Travel across southern Ghana toward the Atlantic coast.
This day provides space to reflect on the experiences in Adaklu while watching Ghana's landscapes unfold outside the window.
Days 8–10 Reflection Along the Coast
Cape Coast offers a different rhythm.
Here we slow down, integrate what we've experienced, and continue developing our own stories.
Highlights include:
- Guided writing workshops
- Personal narrative coaching
- Optional peer story circles
- Visits to Elmina's St. George's Castle
- Kakum National Park's famous canopy walkway
- Walks along the beach
- Free time for reading, journaling, and conversation
Participants will also share their experiences using BabaGigi technology, providing feedback that will help shape the platform's future development.
Day 11 Return to Accra
Following breakfast, we travel back to Accra for afternoon and evening departures.
Although the journey ends here, the friendships, stories, and insights continue long after returning home.