Planning a trip to Ghana and looking for the best places to visit? Ghana, located in West Africa, is one of the safest destinations on the continent and an excellent choice for first-time visitors. While it might not have the most striking natural landmarks, Ghana is rich in history with numerous fascinating sites. In addition to its historical appeal, you’ll find lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls, scenic beaches, and vibrant cities.
Accra, the capital and largest city, is located on the coast and boasts some pretty beaches. One of the most popular is Labadi Beach, known for attracting both locals and tourists. If you prefer a quieter beach experience, explore beaches located outside the city. A visit to Accra wouldn’t be complete without going to a local market. Markets are always a highlight in any new country as they offer a glimpse into local life, fresh produce, and street food. Makola Market in Accra, predominated by female traders, offers a wide array of products.
Accra also offers some unique experiences like the Fantasy Coffins, which are known for their peculiar designs such as car-shaped, airplane-shaped, and even beer bottle-shaped coffins. Visiting a Fantasy Coffin workshop is a must-do. Don’t miss the Aburi Botanical Garden, situated about 30 km north of Accra. It’s a calm park with towering trees and a serene atmosphere.
Kokrobite, a town on the Atlantic coast, has a long beach and is close to Accra, making it a favored destination for both tourists and locals. It’s less crowded than Labadi Beach and perfect for relaxation. Here, you can watch traditional fishing boats, enjoy local seafood at beachside restaurants, listen to live music at cafes, and shop for souvenirs at various small shops.
Cape Coast is another coastal city, famous for its historic sites and its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Cape Coast Castle, a large whitewashed fort built by the Swedish in the 17th century, is a notable landmark. Nearby is Elmina Castle. Both castles are UNESCO World Heritage sites and are significant historical monuments.
Kakum National Park is a protected wildlife area and a top place to visit in Ghana. It’s covered in tropical forest, home to endangered species like the Diana monkey, yellow-backed duiker, and African elephant. The park is also an Important Bird Area with around 266 bird species. The Kakum Canopy Walk offers an exhilarating view of the forest, and organized tours provide opportunities to see this diverse ecosystem.
Larabanga Ancient Mosque stands out with its Sudanese architectural style. Built in 1421, it is the oldest mosque in Ghana and one of the oldest in West Africa. Often referred to as the “Mecca of West Africa,” the mosque has undergone several restorations and is listed by the World Monuments Fund as one of the 100 Most Endangered Sites. Near the mosque, you’ll find Mole National Park, Ghana’s largest wildlife reserve, home to over 90 mammal species, including elephants, hippos, buffaloes, warthogs, and various monkeys.
Lake Bosomtwe, the only natural lake in Ghana, sits in an old impact crater, offering stunning landscapes. The nearby villages, especially Abono, attract visitors for various recreational activities such as birdwatching, canoeing, hiking, biking, and boat cruises. Spending a few days here allows for a thorough exploration of the area.
Wli Waterfalls, the tallest in Ghana and among the highest in West Africa, feature a series of cascades. They are located in the Agumatsa Mountain Range, which also includes Ghana’s highest peaks, Mount Afadja and Mount Aduadu. To reach the waterfalls, you must walk through the Agumatsa Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area where you can spot butterflies, monkeys, and birds.
By exploring these diverse and enriching locations, you’ll experience the full charm and history that Ghana has to offer.