With a wealth of sandy beaches and national parks teeming with wildlife, Ghana is a small country with loads to offer adventurous travelers. Moreover, it boasts a stable democracy, welcoming residents, and unique attractions, from incredible festivals to the studios of artisan coffin makers (yes, really). Whether you’re a first-timer to West Africa or returning for more, you’ll always find something here to delight and excite you.
1. Track Elephants in Mole National Park
Mole National Park is Ghana’s largest protected area and a jewel of the national parks. Covering 4840 sq km (1869 sq miles), this stunning landscape of open savanna and pockets of floodplain grasslands is bigger in size than Accra, the country’s capital. More than 90 wildlife species call Mole home, including warthogs, green monkeys, and 600 peaceful elephants.
Planning tip: While leopards and spotted hyenas can be found in Mole, lions are rare. This lack of dangerous predators combined with Mole’s less-aggressive elephants makes the park ideal for walking safaris. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you can track elephants on foot, following them through the bush to watering holes for an unforgettable view.
2. Browse Custom Fantasy Coffins
Custom-made burial vessels that resemble symbols from a person’s profession, Ghana’s fantasy coffins gained global fame during a Paris art show in 1989. These coffins express individuals’ passions even after death, taking forms like fish, sneakers, or cameras. Each coffin is exquisitely detailed, colorful, and functional – a true piece of art.
Planning tip: Many artisan coffin makers have showrooms open for browsing in Teshie-Nungua near Accra. Stop by to examine these intricate compositions up close.
3. Fill Up on Local Cuisine
Ghanaian cuisine is hearty and comforting, influencing dishes across the southern United States. The country’s popular foods combine starchy staples with soups or stews. One beloved dish is red-red, a signature bean stew made with tomatoes, onions, black-eyed peas, and palm oil. It often includes fish such as snapper or mackerel, and is typically accompanied by fried plantains.
Ghana’s national dish, fufu, consists of dough-like starch made from boiled cassava or plantains. Kenkey, a dumpling-style street food, is a favorite among the Ga people.
4. Learn About the History of Slave Castles on Cape Coast
The history of Ghana’s slave castles is a stark reminder of the transatlantic slave trade. These commercial fortresses once dotted West Africa’s Gold Coast during the 17th and 18th centuries. Remnants of these forts still exist, with Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle being among the most accessible.
Planning tip: Cape Coast is about a three-hour drive from Accra, and guided tours are available at each site. Visitors can see desolate isolation cells, dungeons, and dark holding cells where enslaved individuals awaited transport across the sea.
5. Admire West Africa’s Oldest Mosque in Larabanga
Larabanga Mosque, established in 1421, is not only the oldest mosque in West Africa but also unique in appearance, built in the Sudanese style. Popular for pilgrimage, it draws visitors who can explore its exterior with the guidance of locals.
6. Delve into Ghana’s History in Accra
In 1957, Ghana became the first African country to gain independence from colonial rule. Numerous monuments celebrate this significant transformation throughout Accra, highlighting what independence meant for the continent.
7. Hike or Bike in Ghana’s Shai Hills
The Shai Hills Resource Reserve invites exploration with its lush greenery and rocky mounds. This area is known for roadside baboons and is ideal for hikers, campers, and mountain bikers.
8. Hit Up Ghana’s Dreamy Beaches
With 550 km (341 miles) of sandy coastline, Ghana is a beach lover’s paradise. Cape Three Points Beach offers a tranquil retreat, while Kokrobite Beach provides opportunities for lively nightlife.
9. Shop for Locally Made Artisan Goods
Ghana boasts an array of authentic handmade artisan goods, from Djembe drums to beaded dolls. Bargain at Accra’s markets to find carved wooden bowls, leather bags, and vibrant kente textiles. Look for stalls where the seller is the maker to learn about the craftsmanship involved.
10. Embark on a Canopy Walk at Kakum National Park
Kakum National Park features a unique canopy walk that offers breathtaking views of its lush rainforest. The park is home to various wildlife, including red river hogs and forest elephants.
11. Attend Ghana’s Many Festivals
With over 200 festivals annually, Ghana’s colorful parades, dancing, and music showcase its rich culture. Events like the Asante Akwasidae festival celebrate the traditional Ashanti people and occur every six weeks.
