Top Places to Visit in Ghana.
It's time to explore Ghana!
A country that presents you with an assortment of stunning beaches, waterfalls, African art, historical colonial sights, and colorful traditional heritage to be explored largely through spicy food. You are definitely in the right place for fun, relaxation, adventure, and education dispersed at strategic locations across the country.
Indulge your wanderlust with these must-see places in Ghana.
Accra
Once you’re in Ghana, you should definitely explore Accra, Ghana's vibrant capital city, where rich history merges with a modern urban landscape. This city is the peak of Ghanaian art and culture. The people of Accra are bright and open, and the destinations are numerous. When in Accra, pass by the Black Star Square, which represents the country’s fight for independence in 1957. Stroll through the bustling markets of Makola and Kaneshie, where you can shop for traditional textiles, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. For some relaxed beach vibes, you can check out Laboma Beach, Sandbox Club, and Bojo Beach, which offer a little getaway from the buzzing capital. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the city's lively nightlife in Osu and savor delicious local cuisine at one of Accra's many restaurants.
Aburi Gardens
Featuring trees that arrived in the late 19th century from far-flung locales in Central America, Mexico, Malaysia, India, and the Caribbean, as well as orchids, rock gardens, and a children's park, the gardens also include 13 hectares (32 acres) of uncultivated land, kept in a wild state to maintain ecological balance. While you’re wandering the grounds, keep an eye out for an array of contributions planted by visiting dignitaries, such as the mahogany tree from Queen Elizabeth II in 1961 and the silver oak from Prince Charles in 1977. Located less than an hour’s drive from Accra, Aburi has fresh air in abundance, making it a perfect spot to escape the buzz of the capital and spend some time with nature.
Asenema Waterfalls
Nestled in the picturesque Akuapem region of Ghana, the Asenema Waterfalls is a stunning tourist attraction that promises a rejuvenating experience for visitors. The falls are renowned for their mesmerizing cascades that tumble gracefully over rocky cliffs, creating a soothing sound that enhances the tranquility of the surrounding lush landscapes. Visitors can explore the well-maintained trails leading to the waterfall, which are adorned with vibrant flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day out, the falls offer a perfect backdrop for both relaxation and exploration. The best time to visit is during the rainy season when the waterfalls are at their most vigorous, creating a spectacular sight.
Quad Biking
Embrace the ultimate off-road adventure with an exhilarating quad bike experience. Prepare to jump, soar, and speed through the jungle. Learn from a qualified instructor how to tackle the terrain while maintaining your balance and speed. You’ll have them practice the controls before setting out on the track. Then it's time to roll as you embark on an exciting adventure in the jungle.
Cape Coast Castle
Situated on the Atlantic Coast, Cape Coast was once a hub for the transatlantic slave trade, and Cape Coast Castle played a key role, in housing enslaved people from the 16th to the 17th centuries. Constructed by the Dutch in the 16th century, this historic fortress stands as a reminder of the transatlantic slave trade. Explore the castle's slave dungeons, where countless lives were impacted, and stand at the Door of No Return, a haunting symbol of human suffering and resilience. Cape Coast is a place where history speaks, and beauty abounds. Today it's on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and guided tours take visitors into the dungeons and along the ramparts to explore this period of Ghana’s colonial history.
Assin Manso Ancestral Slave River
The Assin Manso Ancestral Slave River, also called Nnonkonsuo or Donkor Nsuo, was one of the slave markets for gathering indigenes during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. It served as the final link in the slavery route from Northern Ghana. On the way to the coastal dungeon, the slave merchants stopped at the DONKOR NSUO, ”the slave river”, in Assin Manso. Captured Africans were allowed to recuperate there after their long journey. Here, they were fed and rested for several days or weeks. The merchants knew they could guarantee higher prices if they appeared healthy and strong. DONKO NSUO is where the captives would take their last bath in the waters of their native land. The Portuguese began the inhumane practice of branding. The stronger captives continued walking for approximately 40 miles to Cape Coast Castle, still shackled and chained.
Kakum National Park
Located just north of Cape Coast, Kakum National Park is a 375 km² national park consisting of undisturbed coastal forest and is also home to an amazing rainforest canopy walkway. This canopy walkway consists of six tree platforms and seven suspension bridges that reach a height of 27 meters (88 feet) above the forest floor. It is always good to visit the walkway early in the morning before the crowds arrive and queues form, but the trails are far less frequented.
Wildlife at Mole National Park
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Mole National Park in the northern part of the country is a must. Embark on a thrilling safari adventure through this expansive park, home to elephants, antelopes, baboons, and a variety of bird species. Witness these majestic animals in their natural habitat and capture unforgettable memories on a guided walking or jeep safari. This supports a wide range of birds, butterflies, and wildlife.
Relax and Rejuvenate at Wli Waterfalls
Discover the highest waterfall in West Africa. The Wli waterfalls are also located in the Volta Region and offer a breathtaking experience. You can do a guided tour through lush green forests, surrounded by the sounds of nature, to reach the stunning cascades. The first stop, the lower falls, invites you to marvel and swim. Enjoy the natural wonder and refresh yourself in the cool pool at the base of the falls before you reach the "Upper Falls" further up.
Visit the Fantasy Coffin Makers of Accra.
A group of artisans within Accra’s Ga community has elevated death to an art form through the creation of what they call ‘fantasy coffins.’ These coffins are custom-made in a series of unusual shapes, from animals to shoes, ships to cocoa pods, representing the passions and professions of the deceased. The Ga believe that by burying someone in a coffin representing what they did in life, they help them carry it over into the afterlife. The majority of coffin makers’ workshops are located on the Beach Road in the Teshie-Nungua district. You can tour the workshops to learn more about this fascinating craft.
Enjoy!
