Ghana is one of the most beautiful African countries. It is located in West Africa by the Gulf of Guinea. It Is bordered by francophone countries like Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Togo. It is the only English-speaking country in the region known for its serene setting beside the ocean. The term “Akwaba” which is often heard among the citizens of the country is not just a form of greeting, but a term that symbolizes the friendly and hospitable nature of the country. There are a lot of cool places to visit while in the country.
Some of these places are:
1. Kakum National Park
The Kakum National Park is a must-visit for every tourist in Ghana. It’s stretched over an extensive part of the coast of Southern Ghana with a land area of 145 square meters. The park is filled with about 40 mammal species, 300 bird species, and over 600 species of butterflies. Different endangered species of animals like buffalos, meerkats, civets, and elephants can be seen wandering in their natural habitat. It has a string of viewing platforms that is 30 meters above the park floor. The park reportedly opens from 6 am to 4 pm daily.
2. Labadi Beach
Labadi Beach is also known as “La Pleasure Beach” due to its weekend vibes of local entertainment like native drumming, reggae bands, and a lot of dancing. It is one of the busiest and most popular beaches in Ghana as it is a relaxation spot for most tourists and locals. The beach is maintained by the Labadi Beach Hotels and the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel. A little amount of money is required as an entrance fee at the gate.
3. Mole National Park
This is the largest wild park in Ghana. It is located in the Northern Region of the country. It is home to over 250 species of birds, and 94 species of mammals like antelope, Buffalo, elephant, hyenas, leopards, and lions. The park allows tourists to walk freely and drive the park safaris. The best time to enjoy elephants’ sightings in the park is from December to April.
4. Lake Volta
Lake Volta is the longest artificial lake in the world. It is located in the least visited area of the country covering about 8,502 square meters. The lake flows around the country covering 3.6% of the land present in Ghana. Other tourist sites around the lake include Mount Afadjto, which is Ghana’s tallest peak, Shai Hills for wildlife preservation, Xavi, Aburi botanical garden, Kente weaving village, and the Akosombo dam. The presence of exotic and luxurious hotels around the lake makes it the choice of many tourists.
5. Lake Bosumtwe
Lake Bosumtwe is the only natural Lake in Ghana. It is 32 kilometers away from Kumasi and almost 90 meters deep. The lake was formed years ago after a large meteorite hit its present location in Ashanti. The Ashanti people consider the lake sacred with the belief that the spirit of the dead visits it to say goodbye to the God Twi. It is a superb destination for sports adventures like biking, hiking, horseback riding, and trekking. Tourists also use it as a spot for engaging in water sports, relaxing, and picnicking.
6. Busua Beach
The Busua Beach Is another beautiful site to behold in Ghana. It is located between Dixcove and Butre which is 30km from the city of Takoradi. It is about 5 hours to the West of Accra. Tourists enjoy the freedom of sunbathing, eating freshly cooked lobster, and even surfing the face of the water. The presence of a resort and inn at the beach makes it “home away from home” for the tourists. The inn is said to be run by a French couple who makes authentic French cuisine with love and passion.
7. Elmina Castle
The Elmina Castle is part of the national museum system with special historic background. It is also known as St. George’s Castle and it is a 20-minute drive the West of Cape Coast Castle. The castle was built by the Portuguese in 1482. The Dutch took over it after 150 years. They used it as the headquarters of the Dutch West India Company for over 2 centuries as the slave trade was taking over gold exports, serving as the Caribbean and Brazillian slave routes. The castle has a dungeon that gives tourists a gory insight into the horrors the slaves faced back then. It is said that the dungeon is used as a cell for about 200 people.
8. Kumasi
Kumasi is the former capital of Ghana during the Ashanti Kingdom era. It is a metropolitan area and the second largest city in the country. It is a significant center of trade, culture, politics, and history. It is a well-known place where tourists shop for gold jewelry, Kente cloth, and wooden stools. Its main attraction is the Kejetia market. Other tourist attractions in Kumasi include The Manhiya Palace Museum, Kumasi Zoo, Armed Forces Museum, and Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary.