Ghana over the years is known for its diverse wildlife and tourist attractions coupled with the great hospitality ushered by its citizens. The Kakum National Park, Aburi Botanical Gardens, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum are some of the few tourist sites in the country.
The capital Accra’s National Museum traces Ghanaian culture and history. In northern savannah country, reserves like Mole National Park afford up-close views of large mammals such as elephants and antelopes.
TEN OF GHANA’S BEST TOURIST SITES
Kakum National Park
Undoubtedly one of the most patronized tourist sites in Ghana, the Kakum National Park which was established in 1931 as a reserve is located in Cape Coast, one of the coastal environs in Ghana. Research indicates the Kakum National Park attracted over 135,870 visitors in the year 2009. With an area of 375 square kilometres (145 sq mi), the canopy walk which is 350 metres (1,150 ft) long and connects seven tree is the most recognized facility at the reserve as many tourists will always want to experience the adventure of having a feel on the canopy walk at every visit. With three hours journey from Ghana’s capital Accra, one can get to the Kakum National Park by road. The reserve have also served as a grounds where various institutions and organizations use for their social activities. It is however important to note that one must always make it a point to have a tour guide anytime he or she visits the Kakum National Park.
Aburi Botanical Gardens
Thinking of having a good, serene atmosphere for yourself or holding any social gathering? The Aburi Botanical Gardens should be the first to ring a bell. The Aburi Botanical Gardens is mainly used for social events. Founded by Governor William Brandford-Griffith and Dr John Farrell Easmon, a Sierra Leonean medical doctor in 1890, the Gardens have served as one of the most recognized tourist sites in Ghana. Some social events which are mainly held at the Aburi Botanical Gardens are weddings, birthday parties and picnics. Others also capitalize on the beautiful environment for their photo sessions. Located in one of the mountainous areas in Ghana (Aburi), just a 30minutes drive from Accra.
Elmina Castle
Anyone who heard of the slave trade in Ghana cannot narrate without mentioning the Elmina Castle, the Castle is among three main castles which served as a base for the slave trade in then Gold Coast. Built by the Portuguese in 1482 as São Jorge da Mina (St. George of the Mine), the Castle remains a historical site that has attracted many to visit and see where one of the major slave trades took place in the Gold Coast. In recent times, some Musicians in the showbiz industry have used the Elmina Castle for music videos. In 1987, the famous drama movie Cobra Verde was filmed at Elmina Castle. 3 hours drive from Accra and 10minutes drive from Cape Coast, the former capital of Ghana.
Mole National Park
The Mole National Park is arguably the only recognized and largest wildlife refuge in Ghana. Located in Larabanga, a town in the Northern Region of Ghana, the Park camps various kinds of animals especially the African bush elephants, larger of the two species of African elephants, and the largest living terrestrial animal. It also serves as forest habitats for antelopes and other animals. Recently, honey made from flowers in the Molé National Forest has become the region’s first fair-trade commodity. One must take at least 12 hours by road from Accra to the location, however that distance could be shortened to about an hour by plane.
Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum
The name Kwame Nkrumah will always ring a bell in the minds of every Ghanaian so far as history is concerned. Led Ghana to attain independence in 1957 after years under British rule. The mausoleum houses the bodies of Dr Kwame Nkrumah and his wife Fathia Nkrumah. Many always like to take the opportunity to visit the grave of the prominent Ghanaian leader. Located in Ghana’s capital Accra.
Nzulezo
A Village that has eventually turned to be a tourist attraction due to its weird nature. Located near the village of Beyin, roughly 90 kilometers west of Takoradi. The village’s name “Nzulezo” in Nzema language, means “water surface”. Unlike the natural world where buildings are constructed on lands, in this case, buildings are constructed on water with the aid of bamboo sticks. Nzulezo was built over Lake Tadane. It is not known why the village has been built over the water. The main activities of its inhabitants is agriculture, while the fishery plays a secondary role. The lake is however perceived by the local population to protect against certain risks.
Mount Afadja
The highest mountain in Ghana, Mount Afadja known in the Ewe language as Afadjoto is located in Gblede, a village in the Volta Region. Over the years many tourists have tried to challenge themselves by climbing to reach the summit of the mountain which is 885 metres (2,904 ft) above sea level. Despite not rated among the top mountains in Africa, Mount Afadja has always been a major tourist site for most Ghanaians and expatriates. It is about 178 kilometers (111 mi) northeast of Accra, and 178 kilometers (111 mi) northwest of Lomé
Centre for National Culture
One cannot visit Ghana without going to the Centre for National Culture located in the centre of Accra where all the artefacts, sculpture and traditional dresses are made. It is a place where almost all the Ghanaian fashion cultures are projected. Most foreigners visit the place for their various artworks.
Boti falls
One of the major waterfalls in Ghana, the Boti falls It is located 17km North-east of Koforidua, which is the eastern regional capital. It is just over 30 minutes drive from Koforidua and over 90 minutes from Accra depending on the means of transportation. Compared to the Wli Waterfalls and Kintampo Waterfalls, the Boti Falls remain the highly patronized site among all the waterfalls in Ghana.
Lake Volta
The largest artificial reservoir in the world in terms of surface area is located just behind the Akosombo Dam, Ghana’s only source of power. This site is most visited by the locals knowing it plays a major role in the provision of Energy in the country.
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