Top 10 Places to Visit in Ghana

Key Takeaways

• Start in Accra for history at Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and Jamestown.
• Head to Cape Coast for emotional castle tours and Kakum’s canopy adventure.
• Explore Kumasi’s Ashanti heritage and Mole Park for wildlife safaris.
• Book via Agoda, Booking.com, or TripAdvisor for stays near these spots.

Why These Are Ghana’s Best Places to Visit

As someone who’s wandered Ghana’s bustling markets and hiked its lush trails multiple times, I can tell you these 10 spots capture the country’s soul. From colonial history to wildlife wonders, they offer more than sights; they deliver stories.

Plan around the dry season (December to April) for the best weather.

1. Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum in Accra

I first visited this serene park on a humid afternoon in Accra, struck by the golden statue of Ghana’s founding president gleaming under the sun.

The mausoleum houses Nkrumah’s remains and artifacts from his pan-African vision, drawing 98,000 visitors yearly. It’s not just a memorial; guided tours reveal speeches and relics that shaped Africa’s independence.

One visitor shared, “The symbolism hit deep, connecting past struggles to today’s hopes.” Book Accra hotels on Booking.com.

2. Cape Coast Castle

Stepping into the dungeons here felt like time travel; the air heavy with echoes of chained ancestors waiting at the Door of No Return.

This UNESCO site, overlooking the Atlantic, was a major slave trade hub. Tours last an hour, contrasting the governor’s opulent rooms with grim cells, leaving you reflective.

Combine with nearby Elmina. Stay via TripAdvisor.

3. Kakum National Park Canopy Walk

Balancing 40 meters up on swaying bridges amid rainforest canopy was my adrenaline rush; monkeys chattered below as birds soared.

This 350m walkway spans seven bridges, offering rare treetop views. Spot antelopes, butterflies, and over 200 bird species on guided nature walks.

“Thrilling yet safe,” raved a reviewer. Tours on GetYourGuide.

4. Mole National Park Safaris

Watching elephants drink at dawn from a jeep was magical; this vast savannah hosts baboons, antelopes, and 300+ birds. Walking safaris at GH¢12/hour guide fee let you get close safely. Night drives reveal nocturnal life.

Stay at Mole Motel. Book via Expedia.

5. Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi

In the Ashanti heartland, I admired golden stools and royal regalia here, learning monarchy tales from passionate guides. Built in 1925, it blends tradition and history, quieter than markets but profound.

6. Kejetia Market in Kumasi

Lost in this massive open-air bazaar, West Africa’s largest, I haggled for kente cloth amid spices and fabrics. Over 10,000 stalls buzz daily; guides help navigate sections for crafts and food.

7. Wli Waterfalls in Volta Region

The 30-minute hike to lower falls plunged me into misty paradise: West Africa’s tallest at 40m+, with bat colonies and swimming pools. Upper falls add a challenge for fit hikers.

Tours from $290 on TripAdvisor.

8. Lake Bosomtwe

Formed by a meteor, this sacred crater lake surrounded villages enchanted me with boat rides and horse treks. Fish with locals or relax on the shores; no motors allowed.

9. Jamestown Lighthouse in Accra

Climbing this 1930s white tower in Accra’s oldest neighborhood, I gazed over fishing boats and street art. Symbol of the colonial era, it’s free to view, blending history with vibrant community life.

10. Larabanga Mosque

This 1421 mud mosque, West Africa’s oldest, mesmerized with its Sudano-Sahelian style and ancient miracles lore. Nearby crocodile pond adds intrigue; respectful dress is required.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ghana’s Top Places