Author(s): Matt Phillips et al

Lonely Planet

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