Stress-Free Group Travel from Accra: Inside Oba Tours’ Curated Travel Experiences
In this edition of Those Who Gather, we meet Pearl, the lead travel planner behind Oba Tours, a community-driven travel brand creating curated group trips from Accra for people who want to explore without the stress of planning or needing a travel buddy. From weekend getaways to international adventures, Oba Tours makes travel easy, social, and memorable.
The Essentials
Who are you, and what do you host on Gaderin?
My name is Pearl, and I’m the lead travel planner at Oba Tours. On Gaderin, I host curated group travel experiences designed for people who want to explore new places without the stress of planning or needing a travel buddy. From weekend getaways to international trips, Oba Tours focuses on creating well-organised, memorable journeys with a strong sense of community.
Give us the backstory. How did this all begin?
It all started in 2021, shortly after lockdown restrictions were lifted. I went on a weekend trip to Keta and realised how much I loved the freedom of getting away. I wanted to travel more often, but my friends weren’t always available. That’s when it clicked - I couldn’t be the only person who wanted to travel but didn’t always have company. So I decided to start hosting group trips, bringing together people who shared the same desire to explore, connect, and experience something new. That idea eventually grew into what Oba Tours is today.
What’s the experience really like beyond the promo caption?
With Oba Tours, the experience goes beyond pretty pictures and catchy captions. It’s about ease, safety, and genuine connection. Everything from accommodation and transportation to activities and timing is thoughtfully planned so guests can simply show up and enjoy. We like to tell our clients “just make the payment and show up with your bags to enjoy”. Our trips are intentionally small and personal, making it easy for travellers to connect, feel comfortable, and truly immerse themselves in the experience. By the end of each trip, it usually feels less like a tour and more like travelling with friends.
Style, Vibes & Rituals
Walk us through a hosting day, what’s your routine?
A hosting day usually starts early. I get up and go to the meeting point, and arrive ahead of time to make sure everything is set. Once guests start arriving, I welcome everyone, do a quick headcount, and walk them through what to expect for the day before we head off.. During the journey to our destination, I focus on helping everyone feel comfortable. We do quick introductions or play light games so guests can get to know each other. By the time we arrive, it already feels like a group, not a room full of strangers.
What do you wear when you host? Do you have a go-to style or signature look?
Mostly activewear. Comfort is key because hosting means being on my feet, moving around, and staying ready for anything. I usually go for practical, easy-to-move-in pieces that still look put together — something that matches the energy of the trip and keeps me comfortable all day.
What music sets the tone for your sessions?
We usually start the day with a bit of gospel music to set a calm, positive mood. Once everyone’s settled and the energy picks up, we switch to Afrobeats or Amapiano to keep the vibe lively and fun for the rest of the journey.
Mind Behind the Moment
What inspired this experience, and what do you want people to feel?
This experience was inspired by the desire to make travel feel accessible and easy. I wanted to create trips where people don’t have to wait on friends, worry about planning, or feel awkward traveling with strangers.
More than anything, I want guests to feel at ease free to enjoy the journey, open to new connections, and confident that every detail has been taken care of. By the end of each trip, the goal is for people to feel refreshed, connected, and excited to travel again.
What’s the most unexpected thing a guest has ever said or done?
One of the most unexpected moments came from our installment payment option, which we offer to make travel more accessible. There was an instance where a guest joined a trip with an uncleared balance and later tried to avoid settling it after we returned.
It was surprising, but it also reinforced the importance of clear communication, boundaries, and systems — lessons that have helped Oba Tours grow stronger and more structured.
How do you keep things fresh every time?
I’m constantly looking for new destinations, activities, and experiences. Whether it’s discovering lesser-known spots, switching up itineraries, or adding unique experiences to familiar locations, the goal is to ensure that no two trips ever feel the same.
Off-Duty
What’s your idea of the perfect Saturday in Accra?
A quiet day at home sleeping in, enjoying good food, and spending time with my dogs. After being on the move most of the time, slow and restful Saturdays are my idea of perfect.
What local spot do you swear by that’s still kind of under the radar?
Maame’s Kitchen in Adenta. They serve full, satisfying meals for around 50 cedis and they’re open 24/7.
What's one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I’m actually an introvert. Hosting trips and leading groups comes naturally now, but I really value quiet time and recharging on my own.
Big Picture
At Gaderin, our mission is to help people gather differently — by making space for real connection, creativity, and shared experiences.What does “gathering differently” mean to you?
To me, it means stepping outside the usual routine of just meeting up at restaurants and instead choosing experiences that create memories, connection, and shared moments. It’s about doing something meaningful together, not just sitting across a table.
In a sentence, why should someone book your experience?
Because Oba Tours makes travel easy, social, and stress-free, even if you’re coming alone and our trips always leave the group chat.
Hosting in one word?
Fun.
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