Ghana, a nation on West Africa’s Gulf of Guinea, is known for its diverse wildlife, old forts, and secluded beaches. Here are the top 10 places you should consider visiting when you find yourself in this vibrant country.
#### 1. **Cape Coast Castle**
Cape Coast Castle is one of about forty “slave castles” built on the Gold Coast of West Africa by European traders. It was originally built by the Swedes for trade in timber and gold but later used in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. A tour through the dungeons will give you a poignant glimpse into the conditions endured by slaves before they were shipped off to new lands.
#### 2. **Kakum National Park**
This coastal rainforest park is renowned for its canopy walkway — one of only a few in Africa. Suspended 30 meters above ground, it offers a unique viewpoint from which to observe wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and perhaps even some of the smaller mammals that live at the treetop level.
#### 3. **Accra**
As Ghana’s capital city, Accra has much to offer: from bustling markets like Makola to historical sites such as Independence Square and the W.E.B. DuBois Center. The city also boasts vibrant nightlife and an array of eateries that showcase local and international cuisines.
#### 4. **Mole National Park**
Situated in northwest Ghana, Mole National Park is the country’s largest wildlife refuge. Visitors can expect to see elephants, buffalos, hyenas, and if lucky enough, leopards. Safari tours are available on foot or by jeep.
#### 5. **Lake Volta**
One of the largest man-made lakes in the world by surface area, Lake Volta is a critical part of Ghana not just economically but also recreationally. Activities here include fishing, cruising on ferries across different sections of the lake, and enjoying watersports.
#### 6. **Elmina Castle**
Another significant slave castle similar to Cape Coast Castle and equally steeped in history is Elmina Castle which was established by Portuguese traders in 1482 as São Jorge da Mina (St. George of the Mines). It offers profound insights into the start of European-African encounters on this part of West African coast.
#### 7. **Busua Beach**
If you’re looking for sandy beaches with modern amenities then Busua Beach should be high up your list! Besides lounging on its lovely shoreline visitors can engage in surfing or take relaxing boat trips along nearby coastal villages.
#### 8. **Kumasi**
Kumasi is often referred to as Ghana’s cultural heart due to being home to many significant aspects of Ghanaian traditions including arts & crafts markets like Kejetia Market — one of Africa’s largest open-air markets — and Manhyia Palace Museum which explores Ashanti history.
#### 9. **Aburi Botanical Gardens**
Located just north of Accra these gardens were established by British colonists more than a century ago and provide a serene environment where visitors can escape city life amid tropical plants and ancient trees preserved over decades.
#### 10. **Larabanga Mosque**
The Larabanga Mosque is believed to be one of West Africa’s oldest mosques dating back hundreds years traditionally linked with Islamic pilgrimages from Sahel regions into Ghana offering architectural insights into Sudanese-style mosques known throughout much Saharan Africa.
From historic forts documenting poignant chapters in human history to lush national parks teeming with wildlife and bustling urban landscapes rich with cultural heritage; Ghana presents an incredibly diversified set array traveler experiences ensuring there’s something captivating for any visitor.