Ghana rewards anyone willing to travel beyond Accra, with historic castles, rainforest, wildlife and waterfalls spread across the country. Here are ten sites worth the journey, and what each offers, for when you want to see more than the capital.
Cape Coast Castle
A historic castle on the coast, central to the story of the transatlantic slave trade, with tours that stay with you long after. It is one of the most significant sites in the country.
Elmina Castle
Another great coastal fort near Cape Coast, among the oldest European buildings in the region, and a moving, important place to visit alongside or instead of Cape Coast.
Kakum National Park
Rainforest with a famous rope canopy walkway suspended high among the trees. It pairs naturally with the coastal castles for a full trip to the Central Region.
Mole National Park
Ghana’s largest wildlife park, in the north, where you can see elephants and other animals on foot or by vehicle. It is the country’s premier place for a safari-style experience.
Lake Volta and Akosombo
The vast lake formed by the Akosombo Dam, with boat cruises and calm water. It is a restful contrast to the coast and the forest, and a feat of engineering to see.
Wli Waterfalls
One of the tallest waterfalls in the region, reached by a walk through greenery in the Volta Region. The falls are at their most powerful in the wet season.
Kintampo Waterfalls
A striking series of falls in the middle of the country, easy to reach and popular with travellers breaking a longer journey. A refreshing stop and a good photograph.
Manhyia Palace
In Kumasi, the seat of the Asante king, with a museum that opens a window onto the history and culture of the Asante kingdom. Essential for understanding that part of Ghana.
Paga crocodile pond
In the far north, ponds famous for crocodiles that live alongside the community, where visitors can get remarkably close under guidance. An unusual, memorable stop.
Nzulezo stilt village
A village built on stilts over water in the west, reached by canoe through the wetlands. It is a unique way of life and a striking place to visit.
You will not see all of these in one trip, and that is fine. Pair the castles and Kakum for the coast, or head north for Mole and the far-north sites, and let the country beyond Accra show you how much more there is.
