This is Ghana 2015

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1This is Ghana 2015 www.ghana.travel

2014-15

Contents

an official publication of

Ghana Tourism Authority Postal address: P. O. Box GP 3106, Accra. Location: No. 2, 2nd Avenue, South Ridge, Near British High Commission / GIJ, Adjacent GFA Tel: +233 302 682601 / 682607 / 682608 Tel: +233 24 4313653 Fax: +233 302 682510 Email: [email protected] www.ghana.travel

Ghana Tourism Authority

@ghanatourismGTA

This is Ghana is published by:

land&MARINELand & Marine Publications Ltd 1 Kings Court, Newcomen Way Severalls Business Park, Colchester Essex, CO4 9RA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Fax: +44 (0)1206 842958 E-mail: [email protected] www.landmarine.com

Printed by: Buxton Press

The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor nor of any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions.

ISSN 2056-4325 ©2014 Land & Marine Publications Ltd

3 ForewordSo many good reasons to visit Ghana

4 Ghana-a tourism destinationFrom butterflies to idyllic beaches, Ghana is a golden experience

6 Rich history and heritageSlave forts top list of unique sites

10 People and cultureFood, festivals and a dazzling range of artistic events

12 Kente clothWeaving a tale of kings and ceremonies

14 Nature and wildlifeMountains, waterfalls and spectacular animals

16 Ghana’s best beachesBeach lovers are spoilt for choice

20 Cocoa industryA Ghanaian treat for the world’s taste buds

22 Visitor tipsGet the most out of your visit to Ghana

24 LanguagesHow do you say ‘Good morning’ in Twi?

25 ClimateWelcoming weather all year round

27 Location Ghana28 Ashanti Region

‘Kingdom of gold’ is rich in history and culture

32 Brong Ahafo RegionBeautiful farmland region has a welcome in store

34 Central RegionRelaxing coastal resorts and history galore

36 Eastern RegionScenic walking trails in birthplace of cocoa

38 Greater Accra RegionGateway region has a zest for life and fun

42 Northern Region‘The mother of all regions’

44 Upper East RegionPeaceful getaway with fascinating tourist sites

46 Upper West RegionSlave routes, wildlife and a rich history

48 Volta RegionA fabulous land of hills and waterfalls

50 Western RegionAncient forts, cocoa farms and gold mine visits

53 Directory

http://www.ghana.travel


It is my utmost pleasure as well as that of the Ghana Tourism Authority to endorse ‘This is

Ghana’. This publication comple-ments the role of the tourism, culture and creative arts sector by promoting Ghana’s culture in all its forms to both domestic and interna-tional markets.

Ghana’s tourism industry enjoys much

strength including the designation of some

of its historical sites by Unesco as World

Heritage Sites, its unique cultural traditions,

the striking friendliness of the Ghanaian

and the diversified attractions available for

the satisfaction of various interests.

The country’s castles and forts, among

which are relics of the transatlantic slave

trade, continue to draw many world leaders

and dignitaries, Pan-African loyalists,

artistes and Africans in the diaspora who

visit Ghana annually in solidarity with its

achievement and in search of their roots

and to connect with the motherland in

various ventures. Likewise, the European

nations that traded with what was then

the Gold Coast have investment and trade

links that bring them and their families and

friends to Ghana.

The countryside of Ghana boasts of unique

ecotourism that attracts special interest

tourists and ecotourists on adventure trips.

Tourism development in Ghana is compre-

hensively aimed at a broad and desirable

range of domestic, subregional African and

international tourists. The government is

pursuing sustainable tourism development

that is internationally competitive and

compatible with Ghana’s social values and

environmental setting. It aims to attract

tourists who show respect for the coun-

try’s cultural values and environment.

Ghana focuses on and practises responsible

and sustainable tourism in the conservation

of its unique cultural, historical and environ-

mental heritage. Apart from the economic

benefits, tourism is used to present Ghana’s

unique cultural heritage to the interna-

tional community and to educate Ghanaians

about their own heritage.

I urge all who read this book to spread the

positive news and attributes of Ghana:

‘Ghana, uniquely welcoming’

Charles Osei BOnsu

Acting Executive Director,


So many good reasons for visiting Ghana

Foreword



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‘Akwaaba’ is an expression

you will hear several times

a day as you travel around

Ghana, one that will ring in your

ears at night and bring a smile to

your face weeks after you leave. It

means ‘Welcome’ and this is exactly

how you will feel when visiting this

beautiful West African country.

Ghana – formerly the Gold Coast – is a

success story of African development,

democracy and stability; a nation made

up of people who are as warm as its

climate. Rich in history and culture, Ghana

is a haven that combines the charms of

a tropical beach idyll with a fascinating

historical heritage, social variety and

amazing wildlife.

With its scenic beauty, its fascinating

history and its time-honoured traditions

in culture and art, Ghana stands out as a

preferred tourist destination in West Africa.

Along the shores of Ghana there are centu-

ries-old forts and monuments attesting

to Europe’s trading links with Africa and

the transatlantic slave trade and in recent

times these have become World Heritage

Sites. Ghana has played a pioneering role

in Pan-Africanism, leading other countries

to attain independence from colonial rule.

Thanks to its wonderful diversity of

natural attractions and its vibrant cultural

identity, Ghana is able to offer the visitor

a microcosmic taste of Africa. Known for

its great hospitality and friendly people,

Ghana is an obvious port of call for expe-

rienced travellers; an alternative for those

who have exhausted the safari circuit and

From butterflies to

idyllic beaches, Ghana

is a golden experience

Ghana – A tourism destination





crave a different African experience; and

a perfect introduction to the continent for

first-time visitors.

experience Ghana

There is something for everyone in Ghana.

While nature lovers will marvel at the

wildlife – including elephants, monkeys,

birds, and butterflies – and the breath-

taking views of varied landscape and

unspoilt sandy beaches, other visitors

will be enthralled by a cultural experience

that links the past to the present in the

institution of chieftaincy and rich regalia,

the colourful pageantry of Ghana’s annual

festivals, the rich array and variety of

handicrafts and, above all, the country’s

proverbial hospitality.

Enjoy our warm generosity, immerse

yourself in our traditions and lifestyles and

explore the beauty of the land. ‘Akwaaba’

to the golden experience.

6 This is Ghana 2015 www.ghana.travel

Slave forts top list of unique sites

Rich history and heritage

From the moment one arrives in Ghana, it is clear that here is a country with a rich history and heritage. Local people take pride in recounting their

ancestry and cultural roots, while every region has a fascinating story

to tell of momentous events.


Ghana has successfully preserved its wealth of significant sites and ancient

structures, making it a perfect desti-nation for history enthusiasts.

For many tourists the history of Ghana

begins with the slave trade and European

interaction; but there was a long and

opulent history before that. While there is

archaeological evidence that people have

lived in what is now Ghana since about

1500 BC, the accepted wisdom is that

many of Ghana’s present-day ethnic groups

arrived in the 13th century AD.

It was the slave trade, however, that left

the most formidable mark on Ghana. The

country’s coast is dotted with castles

and forts built by British, Dutch, Danish,

German, Portuguese and Swedish traders.

Outstanding examples can be seen at Cape

Coast and Elmina, where the two castles

give the visitor a true insight into the 15th

century slave trade and the poignant last

view of Africa experienced by thousands

of slaves. These age-old sites are a legacy

of the several centuries when European

masters and native African servants lived

and worked here. The warehouses would

have been filled with gold and ivory

exports and African slaves destined for

auction in the New World.

MemorialsAs well as being thought-provoking

memorials to the slave trade, many of

the forts and castles have been recog-

nised by Unesco as World Heritage Sites.

Ghana’s extraordinary history includes

the legend of an Asante king held

prisoner in Elmina Castle at the start of

his brutal exile from Ghana. It is easy

to understand why not only present-

day Ghanaians but people across the

western hemisphere have an interest in

preserving these unique buildings.

The historical landmarks of Ghana offer

an insight into the culture and lifestyle

of the people. Open to tourists all year

round, these sites allow visitors to

understand Ghana’s pride in its history.

Remnants of past civilisations can be seen

in the Northern Region at the Larabanga

Mosque, one of the oldest in West Africa,

dating back to the 15th century. This

rare structure of mud is renovated every

year because of the damage caused to

its vulnerable walls by heavy rain. The

Saharan-style Islamic mosques, also

located in northern Ghana, add to the coun-

try’s abundance of significant structures.

7



Cape Coast Castle

Christiansborg Castle

Elmina Castle

Fort Amsterdam

Fort Apollonia

Fort Batenstein

Fort Friederichsburg

Fort Good Hope

Fort Metal Cross

Fort Orange

Fort Patience

Fort Prinzenstein

Fort St Anthonio

Fort St Jago

Fort St Sebastian

Fort William

Unesco World Heritage Sites

http://www.gambiabird.com


The 16th century Nalerigu Defence Wall

can be found in the village of Nalerigu in

the Northern Region. Built by a powerful

chief called Naa Jaringan, the wall origi-

nally surrounded the village, but now only

a few ruins remain. The wall was built to

protect the villagers from slave raiders on

the main route between Ouagadogou in

Burkina Faso and Djenne in Mali. According

to local tradition, the wall was built from

stones, mud, honey and milk.

IndependenceVisitors can learn about the country’s

colonial period its route to independence

by visiting the National Museum in the

capital, Accra. The museum, opened in

1957 as part of Ghana’s independence

celebration, is the largest and oldest of the

six museums run by the Ghana Museums

and Monuments Board. After exploring

the museum, visitors can stroll through

the colonial neighbourhoods and fishing

communities of Jamestown and Ushertown

for the perfect end to a legacy-filled day.

Another historical hotspot is the Kwame

Nkrumah Mausoleum and memorial park

in Accra. Dedicated to the prominent 20th

century Ghanaian leader, who famously

oversaw the nation’s progress to independ-

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ence from British colonial rule in 1957,

the memorial park is a favourite with local

people. Kwame Nkrumah was the first

prime minister and first president of Ghana,

an advocate of Pan-Africanism, a founding

member of the Organisation of African

Unity and a winner of the Lenin Peace

Prize. The mausoleum is a testament not

only to the depth of Ghana’s heritage but

also to the progress that the country has

made since independence.

9

Historical sitesAncient Amowi Caves

Asantemanso

Assin Manso Slave Market

George Ferguson’s Tomb

Goviefe Agodome

Gwollu Slave Trade Defence Wall

Hani Archaeological Site

Komfo Anokye Sword

Larabanga Mosque

Larabanga Mystery Stone

Nalerigu Defence Wall

Navrongo Catholic Cathedral

Okomfo Anokye’s Shrine

Paga Nania Slave Camp

Slave Market of Abonse

Tetteh Quarshie’s Cocoa Farm

The Wonderful Six-in-One Palm Tree

Wuriyanga Mosque

This is Ghana 2015 www.ghana.travel


Food, festivals and a dazzling range of artistic events

People and culture

events such as funerals, childbirth, name-

giving ceremonies and weddings all tend to

have a carnival atmosphere.

These events provide an opportunity for

communities and families to come together.

Many Ghanaians also believe they help form

a bond with their ancestors and heritage.

Many festivals include thrilling durbars at

which the tribal leaders process in deco-

rated palanquins, shaded by traditional

umbrellas and supported by drummers and

warriors firing ancient muskets.

To experience a Ghanaian festival is a

‘must’. It’s hard to resist the spectacle of

Ghanaians dressed in their finest colourful

attire as they vibrantly parade in time to

the drums alongside their traditional chiefs.

Africa is known for its lively music and

dancing and Ghana hosts some of the

continent’s most talented musicians and

dancers. Visitors can discover authentic

From the bustle of downtown Accra to the atmospheric adobe villages of the north, the huge

cultural diversity of Ghana is a source of fascination for visitors, drawing them into a daily rhythm that is unmistakably African.

Along the south coast lies the Fante

Kingdom, where local fishermen still ply

their trade in colourful pirogues and life is

ruled by the winds and tides of the Atlantic

Ocean.

Northern Ghana, by contrast, has strong

cultural links with the sandy region of

Sahel – an Islamic influence dating back to

mediaeval times. This can be seen in the

local style of dress and the distinctive mud

architecture of villages such as Paga, Sirigu

and Larabanga. Sightseers can experience

the cultural variety of Ghana by visiting

each unique region.

Centuries-old traditions, coupled with

distinct ethnic groups, have left a splendid

legacy. To the people of Ghana, the

customs of their ancestors are still an

important part of day-to-day life.

Festivals are a big feature of Ghana. These

flamboyant events are held across the

country throughout the year. Barely a week

goes by without a town or village holding

its annual celebration, while personal

West African rhythms, drumming and

dancing at its finest as well as learning how

villages use ‘talking drums’ to communicate

– a technique still in use today. Visitors are

urged to participate in these wonderful arts

that have been performed for centuries.

Ghanaians are also fanatical about football.

It is by far the most widely followed sport

in Ghana and crowds swarm to watch their

local and national teams play. Both men’s

and women’s football is growing, and the

sport is starting to generate a serious

income for many areas. For a truly exciting

Ghanaian encounter, with traditional

chanting and drumming, go and see a

game at the Tamale Stadium.

Ghanaian food

Ghanaian food is an interesting experience

for visitors. Most dishes consist of a starchy

element, a sauce or soup and a meat. The

basis of many Ghanaian recipes is a kind

10


of thick porridge or puree. The Ghanaian

diet varies from region to region. In the

north, millet, yams and corn are eaten most

frequently, while in the south and west

people enjoy plantains (similar to bananas),

cassava, and cocoyam (a root vegetable).

Cassava

Fufu, made from cooked cassava and

plantain, is the most popular type of puree

in the south while tuo-zafi, made from

millet flour, is popular in the north. Rice is

also turned into a puree called omo tuo and

the dish is considered a delicacy. Visitors

will enjoy groundnut soup and other popular

dishes such as red-red (a fired plantain

with beans), jollof rice (a risotto), bean leaf

forowe (a fishy tomato stew), palava sauce

(a spinach stew with fish or chicken) and

grilled tilapia (a freshwater fish).

Local dishes are eaten without cutlery

using the right hand. Food and drink such

as goat’s meat, sugar cane, sweetcorn,

coconut, oranges and plantain chips are

sold on the street. Local beers such as Star,

Club, Stone, Castle and milk stout are readily

available. For something a little stronger,

visitors can choose from locally prepared

drinks such as akpeteshie (dry gin), distilled

palm wine (a delicacy that is best when

fresh), pito and schnapps (favoured at local

ceremonies and presented to chiefs).

The Ghanaian way of life is unique and the

country is alive with inimitable cultures

and traditions. Once visitors have experi-

enced the relaxed and joyful atmosphere

of Ghana, they will want to return.

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Kente cloth

Kente cloth, a symbol of African

cultural heritage around the

world, is a silk and cotton

fabric woven by men of the Ewe and

Ashanti tribes.

Although the African tradition of weaving

goes back thousands of years, kente cloth

is said to have originated in the Ashanti

kingdom in the 17th century. Many Ghana-

ians believe the development of kente

can be explained by an interesting legend.

According to the story, two friends from

the town of Bonwire (now the leading

centre of kente weaving in Ashanti)

learned the art of weaving by observing a

spider spinning its web. Copying the spider,

the two men wove a strip of raffia fabric

and reported their discovery to their chief,

who in turn reported it to the Ashanti

chief. The Asantehene adopted it as a royal

cloth and encouraged its development as a

cloth of prestige.

Sacred clothTraditionally, the sacred cloth – adopted in

many other West African countries – was

preserved for royalty and worn on impor-

tant occasions. As production increased,

the cloth became more affordable; but its

special status has remained and it continues

to be associated with wealth, high social

standing and cultural sophistication.

Kente is reserved for social or religious occa-

sions and is not worn for daily activities. It

is often presented as a gift at ceremonies

such as child-naming, puberty, graduation

and marriage and is also worn as a symbol

of respect for departed souls at funerals

and ancestral remembrance ceremonies.

At festivals and other celebrations, local

people proudly don their best kente cloths

to reflect the spirit of the occasion.

The quality of the yarn indicates the level

of prestige associated with the cloth. Silk

yarns are the most prestigious. At one time,

yarns were either been spun from locally

grown cotton or unravelled from cotton and

silk cloths imported from Europe and Asia.

12




Today, factory-made cotton, silk and spun

rayon yarns are available.

Kente, also known as nwentoma (‘woven

cloth’) in Akan, is worn not only for its eye-

catching designs but also for its symbolic

significance. There are over 300 patterns,

each with its own name and meaning.

Although the cloths are identified primarily

by the patterns found in the warp (the

lengthwise threads), there is often little

correlation between appearance and name.

Names and meanings can be derived from

proverbs, historical events, important

chiefs and valuable plants.

There are gender differences in how the

cloth is worn. Men usually wear one piece

wrapped around the body, leaving the right

shoulder and hand uncovered in a toga-like

style. Women may wear either one large

piece or a combination of two or three

pieces. In some cases elderly women with

high social status may wear a large piece

in toga-like fashion just as men do.

WeavingTo see kente being made, visitors should

head for the traditional weaving villages

of Kpotoe, Daboya or Bonwire. Other craft

villages worth a visit include the pottery

and art village of Sirigu and the wood

carving centres of Aburi and Kpando.

Colour meanings of Kente cloth

Yellow – Sanctity, royalty, wealth,

spirituality, vitality, fertility.

Pink – Female essence of life, tender,

calm, pleasant, sweet.

Red – Blood and death, sacrifice and

struggle.

Blue – Good fortune, peace and

harmony.

Green – Vegetation, planting,

harvesting, herbal medicine, vitality,

fertility, prosperity.

Purple –

Feminine aspects of life.

Maroon – Mother earth, healing,

power to repel evil spirits.

White – Purity, healing, sanctification

rites, festive occasions.

Grey – Spiritual cleansing and healing.

Silver – Serenity, purity and

joy. Silver ornaments are worn by

women at purification and naming

ceremonies, weddings and festivals.

Gold – – Royalty, wealth,

elegance, high status, glory.

Black – Spiritual energy,

communion with ancestral spirits,

spiritual maturity.


Mountains, waterfalls and spectacular animals

Nature and wildlife

Ghana is home to dozens of vulnerable and

endangered species including primates such

as chimpanzees and red colobus monkeys;

big cats including lion and leopard; bush

elephant; and many waterbirds.

Visitors are spoilt for choice, whether it’s a

panoramic view from the summit of Mount

Afadja or Mount Gemi, a refreshing shower

under the Tagbo, Wli or Ote waterfalls, or an

entertaining visit to a monkey sanctuary at

Tafi Atome or Baobeng-Fiema. Or why not

go on a foot safari in Mole National Park to

view elephants, crocodiles and antelopes,

or take a canoe trip on the Black Volta River

to look for hippos, or simply go hiking in the

shade of giant baobab trees in the rocky

landscape around Bongo. Or you could visit

the sacred caves of Tano or take a two-day

ferry trip on Lake Volta.

elephants

The best place to see elephants is Mole

National Park in north-west Ghana, the

country’s largest, oldest and best game

park. The elephants near Mole Lodge are

accustomed to humans, allowing a rare

close encounter on foot. The best time to

visit is mid December to mid April when

the animals go to known water sources.

From the savanna of the coastal plains to the dense tropical forests of the north, Ghana

is home to a spectacular range of wildlife in a land of mountains, forests and fabulous waterfalls.

Ghana’s 16 national parks, reserves and

wildlife sanctuaries are national treasures,

providing a habitat for a rich diversity of

mammals, reptiles, insects and marine

species. Some of the wildlife parks are

within easy reach of Accra, while other

locations involve a long drive.

Conservation programmes are in place

to protect the natural landscape, thus

allowing visitors – and future generations

of Ghanaians – to go on enjoying this

wonderful country.

Monkeys

The Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary

contains both mona and black-and-white

colobus monkeys. Both are revered by the

community and the sanctuary has a special

monkey cemetery. Tafi Atome in the Volta

Region is a protected area for mona and

patas monkeys.

Birds

Ghana’s most abundant form of wildlife is

its bird population, with over 750 species.

There is a choice of fine locations for

birdwatching.

Butterflies

Ghana has an estimated 1,000 species of

butterflies – as many as North America and

Europe combined. Butterflies can be seen

everywhere, but the Bobiri Forest Butterfly

Sanctuary, a forest reserve with ancient

trees, is a special attraction. Also worth a

visit are the Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary, the

Bunso Arboretum and the Atewa Forest

Reserve.

hippos

Visitors can go on a boat safari to view

the protected hippos along the Black Volta

River. Hippos stay well hidden when water

is abundant, so the best sightings are in

14


the dry season from December to March.

The remote Wechiau Community Hippo

Sanctuary in the Upper West Region is an

ideal place to see the animals.

Crocodiles

There are sacred crocodile ponds

throughout Ghana, but the most famous

are in the far north at Paga, on the border

with Burkina Faso. Many ponds have a

fetish priest who can entice a crocodile

from the water with incantations and the

use of a live fowl. Crocodiles can also be

seen at Kakum National Park, Akatekyi

Lagoon (30 km west of Takoradi) and

Egyamba, 5 km west of Princes Town.

Baboons

The two best places in Ghana to see

baboons are Mole National Park and Shai

Hills. Visitors should be careful. Baboons

are master thieves and will quickly take

unattended items, even from a vehicle.

antelope, buffalo, warthogs

The only place to see warthogs and

African buffalo is Mole National Park,

which is also home to roan, kob,

waterbuck and bushbuck antelope. Shai

Hills, a small sanctuary close to Accra,

is a good place for morning sightings

of antelope, especially bushbuck. The

rarely visited Gbele Reserve, in the Upper

West Region, is a prime location for roan

antelope.


16

Beach lovers are spoilt for choice

Ghana’s best beaches

Ghana is graced with an abundance of beautiful beaches stretching along 540 km of spectacular coast. Many of the beaches are perfect paradises just

waiting to be explored.

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When considering a beach for a bit of sunbathing, an exotic day trip or a well

deserved break, visitors should try to find a place that is sheltered from undercurrents. Unlike the Indian Ocean, the Atlantic is rough and can be dangerous to those unfamiliar with its strength.

Ankobra Beach and Awangazule BeachIf relaxing in solitude on a clean, deserted,

palm-lined beach is your idea of a good

holiday, it would be hard to find a better

location than Ankobra Beach and its neigh-

bour, Awangazule Beach. Situated near

the coastal town of Axim in the Western

Region, these spectacular beaches are just

an hour’s drive west of Takoradi. As well

as offering a gateway to contemporary

African life outside the big cities, they

allow the visitor to discover and enjoy the

hidden beauty of Ghana’s coast.

White Sands BeachWhite Sands Beach is located in the

town of Gomoa Fetteh, off the Accra to

Winneba highway, just one hour west of

Accra. While the White Sands Beach Club

is winning the hearts of holidaymakers,

the peaceful community around the beach

attracts little publicity and is virtually

untouched. This pristine white beach on

the Atlantic Ocean offers the best in water

sports, fishing, bars and restaurants. White

Sands Beach is a protected area and one of

the safest in Ghana for visitors.

Busua BeachBusua Beach is regarded as one of West

Africa’s most beautiful beaches, attracting

travellers, tourists and Ghanaians year

after year. Located 45 km west of the port

city of Takoradi in the Western Region,

this wide, golden beach features miles of

natural sandy shore dotted with coconut

trees. With its agreeable atmosphere,

serene water and cool evening breezes,

Busua is a wonderful place to relax by the

Atlantic Ocean and enjoy some lobster.

Princess TownIf Busua is a little too touristy, why not try

Princess Town, a little further along the

west coast. Also going under the names

of Prince’s Town, Pokesu or Bokaso, this

beautiful place is best known as the site of

the partially restored Fort Gross Friedrichs-

burg. A less well known fact about Princess

Town is that it has one of Ghana’s best

beaches. This clean and pristine beach has

won national acclaim, yet it remains largely

undisturbed. The town is one of the fringe

communities of the Cape Three Points

Forest Reserve and its small, isolated

beach is perfect for couples or groups. For

the ultimate in relaxation, visitors can sit

on the terrace of Fort Gross Friedrichsburg

and enjoy the beautiful panorama of beach

and ocean.

ElminaThe beaches around Elmina are among

the most picturesque in West Africa.

Visitors can sit in the shade of the palm

trees and savour the wonderful view of

St George’s Castle. Although the waves

are quite strong at Elmina and the area is

not particularly well suited for swimming,

there are pockets of sandy areas protected

by rocky reefs where visitors can take a

dip. The beaches of Elmina are run on a

basis of no litter, no entrance fees and no

loud music, allowing visitors to appreciate

the tranquil atmosphere.

FeteThe small town of Fete, one hour west

of Accra, is a ‘must’ for any visitor. This

distinctive town is perched on a hillside,


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overlooking two gorgeous sandy beaches.

Fete Beach is the closest beach to the

capital for surfing. The nearby fishing

village of Senya Beraku is home to one of

Ghana’s less visited small forts, the Fort

of Good Hope. For visitors in search of a

historical beach town with a difference,

Fete is definitely the place to go.

Cocoloco BeachCocoloco Beach is a perfect destination not

only for beachcombers but also for nature

lovers. Located close to Ada, where the

Volta River meets the Atlantic Ocean, the

area is a breeding ground for sea turtles.

The second most popular beach in the

Accra area can be found in Nungua and is

less crowded than neighbouring La Beach.

Cocoloco features a large expanse of sandy

shores, new resorts and camping facilities,

a sanctuary of estuarine birds and scores

of fishing canoes.

Ada Foah BeachAda Foah Beach is located at the

estuary of the Volta River in an area of

great scenic beauty. Its extensive sand

bars have become nesting grounds for

seabirds and endangered species of

marine turtles. The beaches east of Accra

are typically less visited by tourists,

allowing visitors to encounter the true

way of life of the local people. This beach

town is a haven for skiing, fishing and

other water sports, while the nearby

marina is available for yachting. To expe-

rience a natural paradise east of Accra,

why not visit Ada Foah.


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A Ghanaian treat for the world’s taste buds

Cocoa Industry

Ghana was the world’s leading producer,

contributing between 30 and 40 per cent

of total output globally.

In the years following 1957, when the

Republic of Ghana gained its independence

from the UK, it became one of the world’s

fastest growing economies.

Production

The story of Ghana’s cocoa trade has not

always run so smoothly, however. In the

late 1970s and 1980s production was

almost brought to a stop by a combina-

tion of falling prices, drought and political

problems. In the late 1970s the world

market price for cocoa dropped by two-

thirds. Farmers were getting less than 40

per cent of the world market price from the

Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod) and many

stopped producing cocoa altogether. The

situation worsened after the droughts

and accompanying bush fires of the early

1980s and production in Ghana fell from

a third to just 12 per cent of total world

production.

Finally, the World Bank and International

Monetary Fund intervened with a Structural

Adjustment Programme that included a

partial reform of the internal cocoa market.

Today, cocoa is cultivated in six regions

of Ghana: Western, Central, Brong Ahafo,

No harbour scene in the colonial days of the Gold Coast (as Ghana used to known) would

be complete without a group of local stevedores loading sacks of cocoa beans for export. Historically, the production and export of cocoa beans has been the number one source of income for the country and its people.

Today, the handling methods may have

been revolutionised, but cocoa is still one

of Ghana’s principal exports. In fact, Ghana

is one of the world’s largest producers

of cocoa, along with its neighbour, Côte

d’Ivoire. Ghana produces over 4 million

tonnes of cocoa each year and the

industry employs 1.6 million Ghanaians in

growing cocoa and many more in associ-

ated activities.

industry

This mighty industry has grown from a tiny

seed – or bean, rather. In 1895 a blacksmith

called Tetteh Quarshie returned to his farm

in the country’s Eastern Region with cocoa

beans in his pocket from the island of

Fernando Po (now Bioko). It was from this

small beginning that Ghana’s cocoa cultiva-

tion began.

Cocoa was first exported at the end of

the 19th century and from 1911 to 1976

Eastern, Ashanti and Volta. At its peak it

accounted for two-thirds of the country’s

foreign exchange, although this has now

declined to around 35 to 40 per cent.

20



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Chocolate Day

Valentine’s Day (14 February) has

been designated Chocolate Day by

the Ghana Tourism Authority in a

bid to encourage the consumption of

cocoa-based products, with special

programmes on cocoa and chocolate.

Gifts of chocolate are distributed to

poor and underprivileged people.




The high quality of Ghanaian cocoa is

upheld by such organisations as the Ghana

Cocoa Board and the Cocoa Research Insti-

tute of Ghana.

One of the leading makers is the Cocoa

Processing Company (CPC), producer of the

Golden Tree brand of chocolate bars. The

Tema-based company has two factories

where it processes only the choicest

premium Ghana cocoa beans. Factory visits

can be arranged for tourists.

In 2002 CPC’s reputation as one of the

world’s best chocolate producers was

underlined at the Monde Selection

Competition in Paris, where all seven of its

chocolate brands and its drinking chocolate

powder won gold medals.

Today, the company has a throughput

capacity of 64,500 tonnes of cocoa beans.

Its modern cocoa processing plant, opened

in October 2005, is the most advanced of

its kind in Africa.

Quality cocoa

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What’s in a name?

‘Cocoa’ is a deviation of the Spanish

word ‘cacao’, derived from the Aztec

word ‘cacahuatl’. ‘Cocoa’ can refer

to the drink commonly known as

hot chocolate; to cocoa powder, the

dry powder made by grinding cocoa

seeds and removing the cocoa butter

from the dark, bitter cocoa solids; or

to a mixture of cocoa powder and

cocoa butter.


Get the most out of your visit to Ghana

Visitor tips

Passport: A valid passport is mandatory.

Visas: Required of most non-residents.

Ecowas nationals are exempt. For more

details consult the Ghana Mission or

Consular Office near you or the Ghana

Immigration Service.

Health: Yellow fever vaccination required

by all. Infants under one year are exempt.

Currency: The unit of currency in Ghana

is the cedi (pronounced ‘CD’). There are

100 pesewas in a cedi.

Clothing: Loose, cool clothing is recom-

mended all year round. Even in coolest

times, a long-sleeved shirt or light sweater

is generally sufficient. Dress is conserva-

tive in Ghana and long trousers are

generally worn. Shorts are acceptable only

if they are at least knee-length. Revealing

clothing or items with suggestive slogans

are considered inappropriate. Rainwear is

useful from April to September.

Useful items: A torch (flashlight) is

useful in case of power outages or lack of

streetlights. Mosquito repellent is a good

precaution and you may wish to take medi-

cation for malaria prevention. Birdwatchers

should bring their own binoculars. If staying

at an ecotourism site, bring a top sheet and

towels. A spare toilet roll is also a good idea.

Businesss hours: General: 08.00 to

12.00 and from 13.00 to 17.00. Banks:

08.30 to 15.00 Mondays-Fridays

Local time: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)

Electricity: 220 / 240 volts.

22


National dialling code: +233

Driving: Ghanaians drive on the right.

Visitors require an international driving

licence and insurance. Vehicles driven

across the borders require a special permit.

Night driving is not recommended because

of poor road conditions outside cities.

Medical aid: Modern private and public

hospitals and clinics are available in all

cities and big towns. Health insurance is

advised.

Drinking water: Bottled mineral water

recommended.

Credit cards and currency: The

most widely accepted credit cards are

American Express, Diners and Visa. You

can pay with your card at leading hotels,

airlines and supermarkets. Foreign currency

can be exchanged at forex bureaux and

banks.

Tipping: The quality of service should

dictate your generosity to waiters, taxi

drivers, porters, guides, etc.

Hotels: Ghana’s hotels are classified

according to the international star

system, from one to five. There are also

budget hotels with minimum standards

of sanitation and comfort.The grade of a

hotel is shown on the licence issued by

Ghana Tourism Authority and displayed at

reception.

Restaurants: There is a wide section

of international restaurants, particularly in

Accra and Kumasi. Visitors can also sample

delicious spicy Ghanaian dishes at local

restaurants (chop bars).

Tours: Ghana Tourism Authority has

details of licensed tour operators.

Transport: Taxis, recognised by

their bright yellow sides, operate from

city centre to suburbs and can be hired

for longer trips or shared with other

passengers at cheaper rates. Or you can

get around cities and towns in the less

expensive but more adventure-filled

tro-tro minibuses. Reliable inter-city and

cross-border bus services are provided by

state-owned and private bus companies.

Licensed car rental services offer chauffeur

driven and self-drive cars as well as air

conditioned coaches at reasonable rates.

Shopping: There are ample opportuni-

ties to shop for souvenirs at craft shops,

art galleries, open markets, malls, jewellery

shops and craft villages.

Photography: Visitors are encouraged

to take photographs, but avoid taking

pictures of Osu Castle (the seat of govern-

ment), military installations and the airport.

Safety and security: Ghana is

considered a peaceful and safe country, but

visitors are advised to be wary of strangers

and to avoid secluded and quiet places.

Personal effects and important documents

must be kept secure.


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EntertainmentUrban Ghana, especially the

metropolitan centres, comes alive in

the evenings with everything from

cultural entertainment to theatres,

cinemas, discotheques, pubs and

casinos. Ask your hotel reception for

details or log on to:

www.ghana.travel


How do you say ‘Good morning’ in Twi?

Languages

24

Although English is the country’s official language, dominating government and

business affairs, Ghana has over 100 distinctive ethnic dialects and languages, used on radio and TV.

Languages are a big part of Ghanaian

culture and a topic of huge interest to trav-

ellers around the world. Fante, Twi, Ga and

Ewe are the most prevalent Kwa languages

spoken in the south, while two subdivisions

of the Gur branch, Oti-Volta and Grurunsi,

dominate the north of the country.

The people of Ghana are extremely

friendly. Most local people will attempt to

greet visitors and will often help tourists

find their way around the area and assist

with local customs. Learning a few phrases,

and using them as much as possible, will

help visitors to immerse themselves in

Ghanaian culture.

Phrases in the Twi language

Eti sen? – How are you?

Maa chi / Maa ha / Maa jo – Good morning / Good afternoon / Good evening

Me daa si – Thank you

Oburoni – ForeignerThis is an expression you will hear scores

of times every day. While it may sound

offensive, in Ghana it is a friendly way of

saying hello.

Wo bay jay sen? – What is the fare?

Te so – Reduce itAs an ‘oburoni’, the visitor will undoubtedly

be charged up to four times the amount

local people pay. Bartering is part of

everyday Ghanaian life. Once taxi drivers

or market sellers hear visitors speaking the

local language, they will be more likely to

charge a fair price.

Niger-Congo language family tree

Niger-Congo language family

Dagbane

Sisaala

Kasem

Nzema

AhantaAshanti

Akuapem

Ka

Ga

Akan

Bia

Sefwi

Twi

Ewe

Dangme

Gonja

Buli

Gur branch Kwa branch

Dagaare / Waali

Kusaal / Kusasi

Mamprusi (mampelle)

Fante (mfantse)

Oti-volta languages

Ga-Dangme languages

Gbe languages

Porto-Tano languagesAkan

languages

Gurunsi languages


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Located only a few degrees north of the equator, Ghana has a tropical climate – typically

hot and humid with seasonal rains. The country is bounded by Burkina Faso in the north, Côte d’Ivoire in the west, Togo to the east and the Gulf of Guinea, part of the Atlantic Ocean, to the south.

In general, the weather is warm and

comparatively dry along the south-east

coast, hot and humid in the south-west,

and hot and dry in the north. In most areas,

temperatures are highest in March and

lowest in August.

The coolest time of year in Ghana is during

the wet season, when visitors can expect

temperatures of between 23°C and 31°C

along with clear skies and lush growth.

In the southern coastal region, the rainy

seasons occur from April to June and

from September to mid November. The

dry months – and also the easiest times

for travelling within Ghana – are from

November to March and during July and

August.

Climate variation

In the central region, the rains are heavier

and last longer.

In the hotter and drier north, there is one

rainy season lasting from April to October.

Midday temperatures rarely fall below 30°C

in the north, rising to 35°C and higher in

December to March when the harmattan,

a dry desert wind, blows from the north-

east. The harmattan lowers the humidity,

causing hot days and cool nights in the

north. During January, the effect of this

wind can also be felt in the south.

Ghana’s high season for tourism is

from June to August, while the country

receives fewer visitors from September to

December.

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Welcoming weather all year round

Ghana is a year-round destination thanks to the consistency of its climate, with only a slight variation in temperature throughout the year.

Climate

http://www.stellar-tours.com

Pra

Pra

Pra

Pra

Pra

Pra

Pa

ShaiHills

KakumNational

Park

BoinNational Park

AnkasaGame Reserve

BiaNational

Park

Boabeng FiemaMonkey Sanctuary

Digya National Park

Mt Afadjato

WiiFalls

Gbele Game Production

Reserve

Mole National Park

BuiNational

Park

Kyabobo RangeNational Park

Kintampo Falls

BobriButterflySanctuary

AtewaForest

AkosomboDam

CÔTE D’ IVOIRE

TOGO

BENIN

BURKINA FASO

G U L F O F G U I N E A

Black V

olta

Black Volta

Tain

Kulpawn

White Volta

Sisili

Oti

Oti

Daka

Pru

Tano

Lake

Vol

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LakeBosumtwi

Afram

Anum

Ofi

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Ank

obra

Tano

G H A N A

U P P E R W E S T

N O R T H E R N

B R O N G – A H A F O

V O LTA

A S H A N T I

E A S T E R N

W E S T E R NC E N T R A L

G R E AT E R A C C R A

U P P E RE A S T

Birim

Nzulezu

ACCRA

KetaAnlogaAda FoahTemaTeshie

WinnebaApamSaltpondElimina

Cape Three Points

ShamaTakoradiAximEss

iamaBeyinNewto

wn

Prestea

Tarkwa

Enchi

Dunkwa

Oda

Swedru

Dome Ashaiman

Twifo Praso

Obuasi

Tafo Agogo

Nkawkaw

Kpandu

Hohoe

Dumbai

Salaga

Bimbila

Yendi

Savelugu

Lawra

Turnu Navrongo

Bawku

Wawjawga

Bole

Sawla

Begoro

KwadjokromAtebubu

Ejura

Mampong

Kintampo

Bamboi

Techiman

Wenchi

Berekum

Suhum

Dzodze

Nsawam

Konongo

Awaso

Gawso

Bibiani

Cape Coast

Kumasi

Sunyani

Tamale

Bolgatanga

Wa

Koforidua

Ho

Sekondi

Roads

Regional Boundaries

National Boundary

National Parks and Reserves

N

NavarangoCathedral

Wa Naa’sPalace

Laranbanga Mosque

Stilt Village

Aburi Gardens

27

S o u t hA t l a n t i c

O c e a n

A F R I C A

Location Ghana


The Ashanti Region, in south Ghana, is the ‘kingdom of gold’, with a legacy of fine craftsman-

ship and cultural traditions.

Occupying a central portion of modern

Ghana, Ashanti is the hub of the ancient

territory of the Asante and still the heart-

land for all Asante people, wherever they

may be now.

A visit to Ashanti must include Kumasi,

the ancient capital of the region and

Ghana’s second city, founded in 1695 by

the Asantehene (Osei Tutu). The scenic

and hilly capital is home to the palaces,

museums, forts, harbours and churches

that provide a historical backdrop for the

festivals and ceremonies that are still held

with great enthusiasm today. Visitors to

Kumasi have an opportunity to see the

area’s cultural treasures. Tourist hotspots

in the city include the Kumasi Fort; the

Military Museum; the beautiful 300-year

28

‘Kingdom of gold’ is rich

in history and culture

Ashanti Region

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old shrine at Besease; and the Manhyia

Palace, where the Asante king sits in

session every sixth Sunday heralded by a

procession of dignitaries, with exuberant

drumming and horn blowing.

MarketFamous for gold, cocoa and cloth produc-

tion, the Ashanti Region also has the

largest open-air market in West Africa, at

Kejetia. Tourists soon realise that haggling

is an accepted part of trading in Ghana.

Kumasi is ringed with villages famous for

their artisans and handicrafts, including

woodcarving and kente cloth.

The traditional kente cloth is woven by

men of the Ashanti tribes. The Ashanti

are known for their dazzling and bright

patterns, geometric shapes and bold

designs interwoven in silk and cotton.

Referred to by the Akans as ‘nwentoma’

(meaning ‘woven cloth’), the kente cloth

originated in the Ashanti kingdom and is

still one of the region’s greatest exports.

Local people choose the sacred cloth for

their names as much as their colours and

patterns. A visit to the royal kente weaving

village of Bonwire is recommended.

The Ashanti Region, known as ‘the land of

the golden stool’, is also home to the most

important gold mines in Ghana. Visits can

be arranged to the town of Obuasi, 50 km

south-west of Kumasi, which still has an air

of the 1890s gold rush.

RainforestThe Ashanti Region is in a vast tropical

rainforest belt dominated by impressive

forests, large cocoa farms and picturesque

settlements. Although it is the largest and

most urbanised region, Ashanti is also one

of the most beautiful regions in Ghana

and a great area to explore the unspoilt

natural environment. For birdwatchers

and butterfly enthusiasts, both the Owabi

Wildlife Sanctuary and the Crater Lake

Bosomtwi are well worth a visit. Walkers

will love the Bobiri Forest Reserve and

its arboretum, the Bomfobiri Wildlife

Sanctuary with its seasonal waterfall and

the hills around Lake Bosomtwi. Forest

wildlife, including monkeys, buck and

clouds of butterflies, can be seen all over

the region.

The Ashanti Region is the cultural

heartbeat of the country with numerous

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Fact:

The name Ghana means ‘warrior

king’ and harks back to the days of

the Ghanaian empire between the

ninth and 13th centuries.

languages: Akan, Twi

http://www.theroyalsenchi.com


festivals. Among the best known are

the Akwasidae, Papa, Kente, Nkyidwo

and Adae Kese festivals. These religious

events commemorate past leaders and

heroes of the Akan. Although they are

dead, their spirits are believed to be alive

and to take an interest in the affairs of

the living, watching their actions and

consulting with them. The Akwasidae

Festival attracts people from all walks

of life, especially those in the diaspora,

fetching income to those who deal in

traditional wares such as kente cloth and

woodcarvings.

Visitors can also participate in other

traditional events such as funerals and

naming ceremonies. Funerals, usually

held on Saturdays, are spectacular

events in Ashanti with displays of

drumming, dancing and pageantry,

often with thousands of mourners in

traditional red and black. Meanwhile,

child-naming ceremonies are occasions

for (amicably) settling individual and

family squabbles.

EntertainmentThroughout the Ashanti Region, and

especially in Kumasi, guests will find

welcoming hotels and restaurants

and first-rate entertainment. Sporting

facilities are available in the urban areas,

while fishing can be enjoyed on the lakes

and rivers.




Kogyae Strict Wildlife ReserveThe 390 sq km Kogyae Strict Wildlife

Reserve was established in 1971.

Stretching along the Afram Plains, it

is a transitional semi-deciduous forest

zone with tracts of open woodland

and grassland. Geographically, this

area separates the southern forests

of Ghana from the northern savanna

regions. Wildlife includes buffaloes,

monkeys, civet cats, occasional

elephants and 85 species of birds

including hornbills and francolins.

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Beautiful farmland region has a welcome in store

Brong Ahafo Region

the area is one of the most attractive in

Ghana, with many beautiful tourist sites.

Its rivers feature in some of the most

spectacular of these visitor hotspots. The

Pumpum River falls 70 metres among

rocky steps to form the beautiful Kintampo

Falls, hidden in woods close to the Kumasi

to Kintampo highway.

The Monkey Sanctuary at Fiema, 22 km

north of Nkoranza, makes for a great day

out. The black silky colobus and brown

mona monkeys are an enchanting sight.

Often recognised as Ghana’s breadbasket and less known to tourists, Brong Ahafo is

the country’s greatest agricultural region with a large acreage of food crops and cocoa plantations as well as extensive forest reserves and wildlife attractions.

The Brong Ahafo Region was created

in 1958 and named after the dominant

native inhabitants, Akans Brong and Ahafo.

Largely unspoilt by industrial development,

32

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Fact: Ghana has one of the most free

media sectors in Africa. Its private

press functions without any restric-

tions. The Constitution of Ghana

guarantees the freedom and inde-

pendence of the media, prohibiting

censorship.

Languages: Nafaanra, Mo


They are held sacred by the people of

Boabeng and Fiema and to kill a monkey

is taboo. The monkeys have access to all

parts of the village and local people plant

fruit trees for them. When a monkey dies,

it is buried in a coffin and special funeral

rites are performed.

Farmers

The Akan people in this region are mainly

farmers, raising cash crops such as cocoa,

cassava, yams and maize in addition

to a variety of fruits. The rainy season

lasts nine months and the soil is rich and

productive.

Visitors are made welcome to the many

agricultural fairs and local festivals in

Brong Ahafo. Busy markets in the small

towns and villages display farm produce as

well as pottery, weaving and other crafts.

The ancient village of Nsuta, 20 km from

Techiman, is famous for kyenkyen cloth,

made from the bark of a tree. It is fasci-

nating to watch the making of this coarse

fabric that was worn in ancient times.

Festivals are a huge part of Ghanaian

society and Brong Ahafo is no different.

The week-long Apoo Festival is held in

Techiman and Wenchi in November. It is a

time for family reunions and unity among

the people.

The people of Dormaa Ahenkro, Berekum

and Nsuatre put on the Kwafie Festival

between November and December – a time

when the descendants of original Dormaas

come home to a grand reunion. Highlights

include a large bonfire (symbolic of the

Dormaas first bringing fire to Ghana) and

a pageant with drumming, dancing and a

display of paraphernalia.

Environment

No visit to the Brong Ahafo Region is

complete without a trip to the main towns

of Sunyani and Techiman. The regional

capital, Sunyani, only 90 minutes by road

from Kumasi, is a well planned city with

an idyllic environment – a pleasant change

from the bustle of Accra and Kumasi.

Techiman, 60 km north-east of Sunyani,

is believed to be the birthplace of the

Akan people. Prehistoric relics, found in

the area, are now preserved in the chief’s

palace. The town comes alive on market

days as local people arrive to sell their

wares. In the Tano River, which flows

through Techiman, visitors may catch a

glimpse of the sacred fish, said to have

golden crowns. The nearby Catholic

monastery of Tuobodom may be visited by

appointment.

With a multiplicity of ethnic groups,

cultural practices and tourist attrac-

tions, the Brong Ahafo Region is ready to

welcome you.




Digya National ParkThe 3,743 sq km Digya National

Park is the second-largest national

park and the oldest protected area

in Ghana. It was created in 1900

as Ghana’s first protected area

and given national park status in

1971. Digya Park is the only wildlife

territory in Ghana to border Lake

Volta, where manatees and clawless

otters can be found. The park is also

home to at least six varieties of

primate and over 230 bird species

and has the second-largest elephant

population in Ghana.


Relaxing coastalresorts and history galore

Central Region

The Central Region in south Ghana is renowned for its elite higher education institu-

tions and an economy based on an abundance of industrial minerals. The region is a hub of education in Ghana, with some of the best schools in the country.

While the area’s economy is dominated by

mining and fishing, the Central Region is

also a major centre of tourism in southern

Ghana. And with some of the country’s

most beautiful coasts and national parks,

it’s not hard to see why.

BeachesThe region is famous for its palm-fringed

beaches, fascinating fishing villages,

historical towns and rich natural attrac-

tions. It is also the former government

centre of the Gold Coast.

Winneba beach, 45 minutes west of

Accra, and Brenu beach, close to Sekondi

Takoradi, are two of the best kept and most

delightful beaches in Ghana. The seaside,

with its tranquil atmosphere and delightful

views of the Gulf of Guinea, is a perfect

place for visitors to relax.

The local coastline is also famous for its

ancient forts and castles, built by early

European traders. Three of them – Cape

Coast Castle, Elmina Castle and Fort St Jago

– are Unesco World Heritage Sites. Other

forts that serve as a strong reminder of the

depth of Ghana’s heritage are Fort Good

Hope, Fort Patience, Fort Amsterdam and

Fort William.

Much of Ghana’s history and modern-day

culture has been formed by the slave

trade, and this is no different in the Central

Region. The region contains some powerful

reminders of that era, including the slave-

route sites at Assin Praso and Assin Manso.

Other historical towns worth a visit are

Winneba (traditionally known as Simpa),

Kromantse/Abanze, Duakwa and Mensa

Krom, home to some of the region’s best

wood carvers. Another favourite tourism

destination is the craft village of Ajumako,

where carvers specialise in royal regalia,

stools, linguist staffs and clan totems.

34

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Fact:

The Ghanaian empire was built on

the trades in salt and gold, which is

why British merchants later called it

the Gold Coast.

Languages: Fante

This is Ghana 2015 www.ghana.travel


Relaxing coastalresorts and history galore

Central Region

Regional culture is on show at various

festivals held throughout the year.

Among the best known are the Bakatue

Festival, symbolic of the beginning of the

fishing season, and the Edina Buronya.

Buronya, meaning ‘festival’, is a native

version of Christmas celebrated by the

people of Elmina on the first Thursday of

the new year.

DurbarThe Aboakyer Festival is held by the

chiefs and people of Winneba on the first

Saturday in May, while the Fetu Afahye,

featuring a durbar of chiefs, is held by the

people of Cape Coast on the first Saturday

of September.

Another renowned festival is Odambea, in

Saltpond, on the last Saturday in August,

reflecting the migration of local people

centuries ago.

Whether you’re searching for historical

links and roots, looking to explore an alter-

native culture or you just prefer to relax on

a sun-dappled beach, the Central Region

must not be missed.

35



Kakum National Park, a 375 sq km area

of tropical rainforest 30 km north of

Cape Coast, is the most accessible and

foremost nature reserve in southern

Ghana.

Established as a reserve in 1931, it was

declared a national park only in 1992

after an initial survey of avifauna. A

unique feature of the park is that it was

established on the initiative of local

people and not by the state Department

of Wildlife.

Almost untouched virgin rainforest has

been preserved as a habitat for birds,

butterflies and rare animals. The most

notable endangered species are the

Diana monkey, giant bongo antelope,

yellow-backed duiker and elephant.

Kakum National Park

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Scenic walking trails

in birthplace of cocoaEastern Region


The Eastern Region of Ghana is

a rich blend of dramatic land-

scapes, historical relics and

traditional cultures. Although it is

close to Accra, the two neighbours

are in stark contrast. The ancient

atmosphere of the Eastern Region

blends effortlessly with the 21st

century.

The region is full of the nation’s history.

The birthplace of the country’s famous

cocoa industry can be found at Mampong-

Akwapim, where Ghana’s first cocoa farm

was established by Tetteh Quarshie using

seeds originally brought from Fernando

Po Island. From this small beginning grew

one of the country’s main industries. For

those with a particular interest, the Cocoa

Research Institute and its arboretums at

New Tafo are open to visitors.

Culture

The historical villages and towns of the

Eastern Region speak of the rich culture in

the east of Ghana. Sightseers should take

the opportunity to visit the original Pres-

byterian school buildings in Akropong and

the house of Tetteh Quarshie in Mampong.

In addition to Akropong and Mampong, with

their many historical buildings, there is the

regional capital, Koforidua, a pleasant tradi-

tional town with comfortable hotels and a

busy market.

The Krobo Mountains and the Akwapim

Ridge overlook a beautiful stretch of

countryside with opportunities for long

walks and hikes. The Eastern Region is

famous for its tropical forests and cascading

waterfalls. The spectacular Boti Falls in

the forest reserve at Huhunya, are best

visited between June and August. The

Begoro Waterfalls, surrounded by attractive

woodland and forest, are the ideal place for

a picturesque picnic.

Many visitors are drawn to the botanical

gardens at Aburi which opened in 1890.

Just an hour’s drive from Accra, the gardens

contain a rich collection of tropical flora that

attracts scores of special birds and butter-

flies. This venture site with its tranquil

paths has always been a popular excur-

sion for Ghana’s city dwellers. Also worth

visiting is the forest of Atewa-Atwirebu, 10

km north of Kibi, which is home to hundreds

of birds and butterflies.

The eastern area is dominated by Lake

Volta, one of the world’s largest man-made

lakes and a great engineering achievement.

The lake was created by the construction

36



of the Akosombo Dam, a major source of

hydroelectric power. Lake Volta offers

splendid opportunities for cruising and

excursions, while a weekend trip to Dodi

Island is recommended. Fishermen can also

enjoy sport fishing for tilapia, perch and

other varieties in the lake.

The beautiful Kwahu Scarp- it is breath-

taking in beauty and is home to the Kwahu

people. On top of the scarp are a number

of well planned, picturesque communities

with beautiful homes. Futher north of the

scarp are the Afram Plains, a traditional

zone of wooded savannah land. The River

Volta is at its broadest here, providing

opportunities for boating and angling. Trips

to Digya National Park are also possible.

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Fact: The only country that produces

more cocoa beans than Ghana is the

Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire).

Fact: The only English word derived from

the Ga language of Ghana is that of

the wasting disease, kwashiorkor.

Languages: Akan, Twi, Ga

Gateway region has a zest for life

and fun

Greater Accra Region

38

Greater Accra – gateway to Ghana and home

to the nation’s vibrant capital – is one of the

country’s most exciting and distinctive regions.


Although it is the smallest region in terms of size, Greater Accra is the country’s second

most densely populated region, with some 3 million inhabitants.

The region is made up of two metropolitan

areas, Accra and Tema.

SeaportTema is a bustling new city, 25 km east of

Accra, built on the site of a small fishing

village. Known locally as Harbour Town, it

is home to Ghana’s number one commercial

seaport and a large fishing fleet. Its modern

industrial zone has become one of the

region’s main commercial hubs with an oil

refinery, highways and numerous factories.

For those looking to explore Ghana, the

natural starting point is the capital, one of

the safest cities in Africa, brimming with

interest and easy to get around. Accra

has been Ghana’s capital since 1877 and

contains impressive public buildings that

reflect its transition from a 19th century

suburb of Victoriaborg to the metropolis of

today. Spread along the Atlantic coast and

the Gulf of Guinea, present-day Accra is

well endowed with luxury and good-value

hotels, modern commercial areas and shops

as well as excellent restaurants, bars and

nightclubs. In addition, there are fascinating

museums, notable public monuments and

busy markets to be explored in old Accra.

Wherever you are in this energetic city,

there is always something to see and do.

Architecture spanning several centuries

can be found in the city’s older quarters,

Ushertown and Jamestown, where land-

marks such as 17th century Osu Castle, the

Jamestown Lighthouse and the lively fish

market are well worth a visit.

One of the city’s highlights is the National

Museum on Barnes Road. The museum is

run by the Ghana Museums and Monu-

ments Board and contains a fascinating

collection of treasures and exhibits that

reflect Ghana’s prehistoric heritage. The

Accra Arts Centre takes visitors back in

time with its warren of traditional arts and

crafts stalls. Some visitors may want to

keep their cedis in their pockets because

of the aggressive level of haggling; but,

with patience and diligence, they can come

away from the textile market with good-

quality handicrafts from all over Ghana.

The Makola Market on Kojo Thompson

Road is among the most famous in Ghana,

while the unique Osu Night Market is lit

by hundreds of lanterns and candles. For

those who prefer a modern and peaceful

atmosphere, the distinctive National

Theatre is an important centre for the

performing arts.

SquareAnother ‘must see’ in old Accra is Inde-

pendence Square, the second-largest

city square in the world and a venue

for national festivals and celebrations

including Independence Day. The site

is dominated by the Independence Arch

and the Black Star Monument, a memorial

to those who lost their lives fighting for

Ghanaian independence.

Visitors interested in Ghana’s history

should make their way to the Kwame

Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum,


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Fact: Ghana has an estimated population

of 25 million, of whom about 20 per

cent live in or near the capital, Accra.

Fact: Ghana’s main air gateway is Kotoka

International Airport, 12 km from

the centre of Accra. KIA is served by

22 carriers with over 170 flights per

week to more than 35 destinations

worldwide.

Languages: Akan, Twi

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dedicated to the nation’s first president, a

famous Pan-Africanist.

For something a little different, Accra Zoo

has a small but fascinating collection of

indigenous birds and animals including lions,

elephants and monkeys. The zoo is now

part of an ongoing conservation programme.

The beaches of the sparkling Atlantic

Ocean coast are popular with tourists

and Ghanaians alike. West of Accra, the

beaches of La Pleasure, Bojo, Kokrobite

and Sankofa, offering an array of restau-

rants and bars, are particularly popular at

weekends. Kokrobite is also home to the

Academy of African Music and Arts.

ResortsThere are several beaches between Accra

and Tema, including Prampran, but beach

fanatics are advised to travel a little further

to the coastal town of Ada. The Ada Foah

and Paradise beaches can be found 120 km

from Accra, where the Volta River meets

the ocean. Here, the fine beaches of both

the river estuary and the Atlantic provide

exceptional resort areas. With water sports

and river trips, this is a great area in which

to relax, while the waters off the coast are

teeming with game fish.

For those interested in the culture and

customs of Ghanaian society, a visit to the

Accra suburb of Teshie-Nungua is a ‘must’.

Here, local artists have made coffins in

the shape of cars, aeroplanes and even

animals that are now regarded as works

of sculpture. Historically, a local fisherman

would be transported to the next world in

a fish-shaped coffin. Something that began

as a special tribute to an uncle has turned

into a lucrative business for traditional

coffin-makers in the area as the coffins

have become collector’s items.

The Greater Accra Region is perfect for

tourists seeking a busy and wild Ghanaian

experience. With its streets full of hustle

and bustle, Accra is truly Ghana’s version

of the city that never sleeps.



Shai Hills Resource Reserve is the

nearest wildlife reserve to Accra,

located in the Shai Hills, 50 km from the

capital.

This conservation area, consisting of

52 sq km of savanna, is part of Ghana’s

commitment to the preservation of its

natural heritage and wildlife. It is home

to 175 species of birds, 31 mammal

species and 13 species of reptiles.

Close to the reserve are the Se Yo and

Obonu Tem caves, located in a range of

spectacular rocky hills in the middle of

a big area of open plains and wooded

grasslands. In parts of the reserve

visitors can see vestiges of the former

Shai community, whose people were

forced out by rulers over a century ago.

Shai Hills Resource Reserve

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‘The mother of all regions’Northern Region

lasts from May to October, with an average

annual rainfall of 750 to 1,050 mm, while

the dry season, with temperatures of up

to 38 degrees, occurs between November

and April.

The Northern Region is much drier than

southern Ghana because of its prox-

imity to the Sahel and the Sahara. The

savanna is a scene of splendour with its

grasslands and baobab and acacia trees

interspersed with rare species of flora.

This is a place of wonderful vistas that

include the Gambaga escarpment and the

Nakpanduri cliffs.

A ‘must see’ for visitors is the Sacred

Grove, a traditional nature reserve that has

been created around shrines. Most notable

is the Jaagbo Shrine, 30 km from Tamale,

The 70,384 sq km Northern Region – ‘the mother of all regions’ – is the largest area of

Ghana, famous for its scenic beauty.

Made up of 26 districts, the region is

bordered on the north by the Upper East

and Upper West Regions, on the east by

Togo, on the south by the Black Volta River

and on the west by the Ivory Coast.

In contrast with more crowded areas such as

Accra, the Northern Region has a low popu-

lation density, with fewer than 2 million

inhabitants, due partly to emigration.

The tropical climate allows farmers to grow

and sell crops throughout the year and

over 75 per cent of the working population

is involved in agriculture. The wet season

42


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Fact:

The Ghanaian flag has three equal

horizontal bands of red, gold and

green with a large black five-

pointed star centred in the yellow

band. The red represents the

blood of Africans in their struggle,

the gold symbolises the mineral

wealth of the earth and the green

signifies the country’s vegeta-

tion. The black star embodies the

people of Ghana.

Languages: Dagbani, Gonja, Anfuo, Birifor,

Chumburung, Hanga, Konkomba,

Mo, Nawuri, Tampulma, Vagla.


with 25 acres of preserved vegetation,

medicinal herbs and rare plants. The grove

contains the ‘mystery tree’ with the hoof

marks of a horse. Another landmark is the

mythical stone at Larabanga. A road under

construction had to be diverted because

the stone could not be moved.

The archaeological sites at Yikpa Bonso,

with relics of the Koma people, are worth

a visit.

Mosques

Ancient mosques bear witness to the long

history of Islam in the region. The 13th

century Larabanga Mosque, located near

the entrance to Mole National Park, features

a curvaceous style of adobe architecture.

The remains of a 15th century defence

wall, built by a Mamprusi chief using a

mortar of mud, blood and honey, can be

found at Nalerigu.

While mosques are a sign of Islam, graves

are there to remind visitors of battles

fought in the region. A mass grave of fallen

Dagomba warriors can be seen at Adibo,

where the Dagombas fought the Germans.

The grave of Naa Attabian, a Mamprusi

king, is at Nalerigu, and that of Ndewura

Jakpa, king of the Gonjas, is at Buipe.

The graves of massacred Gonjas have

become shrines at Jentilkipe.

The Northern Region was an important

source and route for slaves. Yendi is an

archive of the slave trade, including the

grave of Babato and the relics of his army.

At Salaga visitors can see the wells that

provided the bathing water for slaves

about to be sold, as well as the residences

of slave traders.

Tamale, the commercial centre of northern

Ghana, is an intriguing mixture of ancient

and modern. Its traditional architecture of

round huts with conical thatched roofs is in

stark contrast to the city’s modern role as

a hub for technology. Today, more people

are finding their way into contemporary

industries such as the pottery centre in

Sirigu. The region is also home to fugu

textiles, with production centres in Tamale,

Gushiegu and Yendi.

Damba

The region’s most important traditional

festival is the Damba. Originally held to

mark the birthday of Mohammed, today it

is a mixture of music, dance, excitement,

horsemanship and regal pageantry.

Ghanaian hospitality is legendary and the

Northern Region is no exception. Visitors

are invited to enjoy the spectacular natural

features, exotic culture and historical

legacies of the largest region in Ghana.




Mole National Park in north-west

Ghana is a 4,840 sq km reserve for vast

numbers of wildlife including elephant,

buffalo, wild pig, antelope, apes and

various birds.

The area was set aside as a wildlife

refuge in 1958 and designated a

national park in 1971. Today it is

Ghana’s largest wildlife refuge, served

by forest rangers.

The park is located on grassland

savanna and its entrance is near the

town of Larabanga. The ephemeral

rivers Lovi and Mole flow through the

park, leaving behind drinking holes in

the long dry season.

The dry season is the best time to

visit the park, which has a motel with

a restaurant, a bar and a swimming

pool.

Mole National Park

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Peaceful getaway with fascinating tourist sites

Upper East Region

Bolgatanga Museum and the Kulungugu

Bomb Site, where an attempt was made

on the life of Ghana’s first president, Dr

Kwame Nkrumah. Other places of interest

include the three point elevation at

Pusiga, the Tongo Hills and the mud-built

Navrongo Church, with its beautiful decora-

tive designs by local artisans. A speciality

in Bolgatanga is hand-spun fugu cloth,

which visitors can buy in the markets.

As the traditional crossroads for trans-Saharan trade routes, the Upper East Region, in the

north-eastern corner of the country, is the gateway to Ghana from Burkina Faso and Togo.

The Upper East Region is an excellent

tourist destination in its own right, offering

visitors an exciting introduction to Ghana.

With a population of 1 million, it is the

second-smallest of the country’s 10 admin-

istrative regions. The regional capital,

Bolgatanga – locally known as Bolga – has

always been a meeting point for traders

from Mali and Burkina Faso travelling south

to Tamale and southern Ghana.

HandicraftsBolga is a centre for farmers, livestock and

handicrafts including straw hats, baskets,

cloth and jewellery. The twice-weekly

market is the perfect place to meet traders

from all over the region and to bargain for

basketware, leather goods and traditional

clothing.

The region’s many exciting visitor attrac-

tions include the Paga Crocodile Pond, the

The area is home to various ‘must see’

places of culture and history. They include

the archaeological treasures of the River

Sissili Basin, the ghostly whistling and

drumming Tongo Rocks at Pwalugu and

Chiana, the Awologo-Tango at Bongo, the

wall decoration at Tilli and the Naa Gbewaa

Shrine. Also worth a visit is the Sandema

in Builsa where Builsa warriors captured

and killed the slave raiders Samori and

44



Crocodiles are usually regarded as wild

and sometimes dangerous creatures,

but visitors to the town of Paga, on the

border with Burkina Faso, can visit a

sanctuary where the crocodiles actually

coexist harmlessly with humans.

How the crocodiles came to make their

home in a large pond in a landlocked

area has always been a mystery. Yet

the crocodiles within the sacred Chief’s

Pond are supposedly as safe as any

household pet and the Paga people

certainly treat them as such. Young

children swim in the pond and local

people wash their clothes next to the

lethal jaws of the crocodiles without

fear. The legend is that the crocodiles

embody the souls of departed villagers.

It is an offence to harm, kill or show

disrespect to the crocodiles. Under the

supervision of custodians, however,

visitors have an opportunity to sit on

the back of a crocodile or hold its tail.

Astonishingly, no one has ever been

harmed by any of the 110 crocodiles in

the sanctuary.

Paga is an excellent starting point

for visitors seeking a wild African

experience.

World’s friendliest crocodiles


Babatu to mark the end of the slave trade

in northern Ghana.

Visitors can also see the Paga-Nania

slave camp, the mystery dam of Kayoro

called Kukula, the Gbelle Game Reserve,

the Sombo Bat Sanctuary and the Nasaga

Game Reserve, just 8 km from Burkina

Faso and Paga.

The region is host to many festivals

throughout the year, most traditionally

linked with a good planting season or a

good harvest. Festivals such as the Feok,

Willa, Kakube, Azambene, Gologo and

Fowl draw many tourists to the region.

The Samanpiid Festival is a particularly

large event held by the Kusasi people in

the Kusaug traditional area in the harvest

season.

DistinctiveVillages have distinctive building styles

that have evolved through the genera-

tions. The unique round huts of the Upper

East Region are a key part of the visitor

experience along with its communal activi-

ties that are part of a long tradition.

Only 21 per cent of the population live in

towns, while the remainder live in widely

dispersed rural settlements. As the least

urbanised area in Ghana, the Upper East

Region offers a peaceful getaway for

visitors.


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Fact:

Ghana was the first sub-Saharan

country to gain its independence

from Britain, in 1957.

Languages: Ka, Buli, Frafra,

Kusal, Kasem, Koma


Slave routes, wildlife and a rich history

Upper West Region

architecture. By contrast, local architecture

is exemplified by Jirapa Naa’s Palace, the

first multi-storey mud building in Ghana.

A fascinating story is told by the remnants

of the Slave Defence Wall in the border

town of Gwollu, 70 km north of Wa. One

of many relics of the 300-year-long slave

trade, the wall was built by Gwollu Koro

Limann to defend local people against

slave traders.

Refuge

Ancient caves are another feature of the

Upper West Region. The caves in Bulenga,

Dahili and Sankana were places of refuge

for people fleeing the slave raiders. Actual

slave camps can be found at Pizaga and

Dolbizon and a slave market at Kassana.

The region is an excellent showcase

for nature and wildlife. The Wechiau

With a population of 600,000 and covering only three per cent of Ghana’s total land

area, the Upper West Region is one of the country’s smallest regions – yet contains some of its greatest tourist attractions, from slave trade sites and wildlife areas to capti-vating architecture.

The major routes of the trans-Sahara

trade converged in this region and the

influence of Islam is obvious in the towns.

The regional capital, Wa, is dotted with

mosques including the ancient Sudanese

mosques at Nakore and Dondoli.

Also in Wa is the magnificent 16th century

Waa Naa’s Palace, an example of Sudanese

Hippopotamus Sanctuary, is a unique

community-based project and a haven for

hippos, reptiles and birds. The sanctuary,

located in the north-west corner of the

Upper West Region, protects and preserves

the wildlife and the environment of a 40

km stretch of the Black Volta River. The

river is home to one of the two remaining

hippopotamus populations in Ghana and

has had marked success in providing

tourists with a unique and unusual eco-

travel experience. South-west of Wa,

visitors can spend the night in the Hippo

46

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Fact:

The Greenwich meridian goes

through Ghana but the equator

misses Ghana by about 380 miles.

Languages: Dagaare, Birifor,

Sisaala, Wali, Lobi, Vagla


Hide Tree House and hear one of the finest

dawn choruses in Africa.

Visitors can also tap into the culture of the

region. As in the rest of Ghana, festivals

are a way of life in the Upper West Region.

On these merry occasions, local people and

their chiefs dress in colourful smocks and

hold durbars in the course of the celebra-

tions. Most notable is the Paragbiele

Festival, held by the Tumu people in the

last week of January until the first day of

February. There is a show of farm produce,

together with music and dance, as a way

of thanking God and the ancestors for

their guidance over the farming season.

Other festivals include the Willa, Zumbenti,

Kakube and Kobine.

By contrast, the Dumba Festival is held by

the Wala people to usher in the new year.

There is a ritual to assess the physical

fitness of the chief and whether he can

continue to rule. During the event, the

chief must jump over a tethered cow

without any part of his body or his clothes

touching it. If the chief fails, it is a bad

omen that he is weak and should no longer

rule.

Local crafts are very much on display at the

festivals but can also be seen in day-to-

day surroundings. The Upper West Region

is home to a variety of crafts that include

spinning, weaving and smock designing as

well as pottery, blacksmithing and carving.

Visitors can also see xylophone and other

musical instruments being made.

Architecture

The distinct style and architecture of the

region is similar to that of the Upper East.

The main difference is that rooms in this

region are mostly rectangular, while those

in the Upper East are predominantly round.

The conventional village houses, built

mainly of mud, are well adapted to the

demanding climate.

The best way to reach the Upper West

Region is to fly from Accra to Tamale and

travel onwards by road using the state-

operated bus


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Located 17 km south of Tumu, the

Gbelle Game Reserve and bird sanc-

tuary is an important sanctuary for

endangered species of wildlife within

Ghana.

The reserve is also home to buffalo,

hippo, elephant, buck and the country’s

largest herds of roan antelope.

Birdwatchers consider this an impor-

tant habitat for indigenous and

migratory birds.

Gbelle Game Reserve






A fabulousland of hills and waterfalls

Volta Region The most easterly region of

Ghana is the Volta Region, an

area of extraordinary scenic

beauty bordering Togo. Its land-

scape of rolling hills and valleys,

with rocky outcrops, lagoons, rivers

and waterfalls, is one of nature’s

most attractive gifts to Ghana.

Climatic conditions vary tremendously

within the Volta Region, which stretches

from the coastal plains on the Atlantic

coast to the arid lands of the north.

Visitors can experience almost every

tropical climate in West Africa as they

travel from the coastal plains, fringed by

sunny beaches and mangrove swamps,

through the deciduous rain forests of the

central belt – the location of Mount Afadja –

to the arid savanna of northern Ghana.

RecreationThe west of the region is dominated by

the River Volta and Lake Volta. The lake

is a popular recreational area as well as

providing a major source of power and

water for the region and a ‘water highway’

to the north. Visitors can enjoy a music

cruise along the lake or ride the river in a

canoe with a local fisherman. The beaches

of the Volta estuary are among the best

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Fact: Ghana’s tallest peak, Mount Afadja,

with a height of 885 metres, attracts

climbers of all ages seeking an excel-

lent hiking adventure. The nearest

villages are Liati, Wote and Gbledi.

Languages: Ewe, Adele,

Gikyode, Buem, Nkonya, Ntrubo,

Chumburung






in Ghana and swimming is popular in some

areas, although the sea is generally rough

along the Atlantic coast.

At resorts along the coast, visitors can see

crocodiles and marine turtles, indulge in

water sports or try their hand at deepsea

fishing. Tourism hotspots include the

amazing Wli Falls, one of the highest

waterfalls in Ghana, in the tropical forest

near Hohoe. Equally spectacular are the

nearby Tsatsadu Falls at Alavanyo and the

Tagbo Falls at Liate Wote.

The Volta Region is renowned for its bright

festivals and loud ceremonies. The people

of Wli hold a unique festival to give thanks

for the gift of water, while the Anlos

people put on the illustrious Hogbetsotso

festival (the name is derived from the Ewe

language and translates as ‘Festival of

Exodus’). A purification ceremony takes

place on the first Saturday in November

and is followed by several days of cleaning

the villages, sweeping the streets and

burning rubbish. At the climax of the

festival, local people do the traditional

Borborbor dance, while chiefs dress in

colourful regalia and receive homage

from their subjects. The joyous dancing

and singing that characterise the Volta

festivals is a reminder of the region’s rich

diversity of history and tribal culture.

Kente cloth, traditionally woven by

members of the Ewe and Ashanti tribes, is

one of Ghana’s most famous exports. Over

90 per cent of the population are Ewe, the

largest ethnic group in the region. The Ewe

migrated from the north and their weaving

villages can be found along the path of

migration. Ewe kente cloth is distinguished

by bold animal, human and symbolic

patterns skilfully woven into bright cloth.

Both groups excel at weaving cloth fit for

a king and originally kente was only worn

by kings, chiefs and prominent people.

Now, it is available to all, but because of

its relatively high cost, it is still a cloth of

prestige, worn on important religious and

social occasions.

HeritageHo, the region’s capital, is an ideal place to

learn about Ghana’s heritage. The ruins of

European forts and other structures can

still be seen, with unmistakable vestiges

of the German colonial era. Visitors can

find out more about the area’s history by

visiting the regional museum.

The Volta Region is a lush, highland area

full of spectacular natural attractions,

scarcely visited coasts and beaches, clear

rivers, botanical gardens and beautiful

waterfalls. Visitors can take a trip to

the cities of Ho and Hohoe or take the

opportunity to see mountains, monkey

sanctuaries and kente weaving villages.

The Volta Region gives the visitor a chance

to truly appreciate the magnificence of the

Ghanaian way of life.



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The newly created Kyabobo National

Park is in the Nkwanta district of the

northern Volta Region, 400 km from

Accra. The 359 sq km park contains

both forest and savanna species of

plants and animals. Animals in the park

include buffalo, kob, warthog, aardvark

and baboon. Threatened species include

lion, elephant, bongo, reedbuck and

hartebeest. With its rich fauna and

scenic beauty, Kyabobo National Park

is set to boost the tourism potential of

the Volta Region once fully developed.

Kyabobo National Park

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Ancient forts, cocoa farms and gold mine visits

Western Region

some of the best beaches in Ghana – just

the right spot to relax after a tour.

The Western Region has a long coast

stretching from Ghana’s border with

the Ivory Coast to the Western Region’s

boundary with the Central Region. A visit

to Ghana’s southernmost location, Cape

Three Points, where crude oil was discov-

ered in 2007, is strongly advised. Here,

tourists can climb the 84-year-old light-

house for a superb view of Ghana’s only

coastal rainforest reserve and rolling hills.

Elegant

Also on the coast is the region’s capital,

Sekondi-Takoradi. Comprising the twin

cities of Sekondi and Takoradi, the capital

has a population of 450,000. Visitors

will find plenty of elegant beaches and

interesting resorts including Fanta’s Folly,

The Hideout, Green Turtle Lodge, Princess

Town Beach, Sports Club Beach and Busua

Beach.

Sekondi, the older and larger of the

twin cities, was the site of the 17th

century Dutch Fort Orange and English

Fort Sekondi. A railway was constructed

in 1903 to carry minerals and timber.

Takoradi, the country’s second-largest

industrial area, is also now a centre for the

offshore oil industry. The so-called Oil City

has seen a dramatic increase in investment

From momentous forts, numerous mines and pictur-esque villages to charming

beaches and contemporary resorts, the Western Region presents a striking contrast between ancient and modern Ghana.

The Western Region has a rich heritage,

as shown by the number of castles and

European trading forts still open to visitors.

The area is home to a remarkable cluster of

colonial forts including Fort Friederichsburg

at Princes Town and Fort Antonio at Axim.

These castles and forts are a magnet for

visitors, reflecting the diversity of building

styles employed by colonial traders. Of

particular interest are Fort Apollonia at

Beyin and Fort Metal Cross at Dixcove.

Many of these historical buildings overlook

and wealth as a result of the latest find.

Large numbers of international companies

and hotels have sprung up in the area.

Takoradi is the location of Ghana’s first

deepwater seaport, built in 1928 and the

areas is home to timber, energy and tech-

nology industries. The city has attracted

many patrons over the years, particularly

miners, because of its proximity to the

mining towns of western Ghana.

A ‘must see’ for visitors to the Western

Region is the ancient stilted village of

Nzulezu, founded over 500 years ago.

Located 90 km west of Takoradi, the

village overlooks the jungle-bound Lake

Tadane and rests entirely on stilts and plat-

forms. The name of the village translates

from the Nzema language as ‘Surface

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Fact: Football is the most popular sport in

Ghana. The national men’s football

team, the Black Stars, have won the

Africa Cup of Nations four times and

have qualified for the three most

recent FIFA World Cup tournaments,

becoming one of Africa’s most

successful football teams ever.

Languages: Akan, Nzema,

Ahanta, Sefwi, Wassa, Brosa, Pepesa

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Water’, which describes the way it harmo-

nises with the water-dominated natural

landscape. According to local legend, the

community-based wetland reserve was

built by a group from Oualata, a city of

the ancient Ghana Empire, after a snail

led them to the area. Nzulezu is one of

the few ancient settlements on stilts left

in the world and in 2000 it was declared

a World Heritage Site by Unesco for its

importance in anthropology. Today it is a

major tourism centre with a dazzling array

of rare birds. Visitors can hire a dugout

canoe or even stay overnight in a guest-

house on the water (except on Thursdays,

which are sacred days).

Fertile

Owing to its high rainfall, the Western

Region has lush green hills and some of

the most fertile soil in the country. Farming

is a big part of life here and the roads are

lined with cocoa plantations and ranches.

The bigger farms welcome visitors and

on some cocoa farms guests can see the

whole process, from the growing of the

crop to its harvesting and preparation for

market.

Although farming accounts for much of the

area’s revenue, gold mines and offshore

oil platforms dominate the economy of

the Western Region. This was one of the

first areas to be mined for gold and other

minerals and many mines, large and small,

can be found here. Tarkwa is the centre of

the region’s mining industry. Several of the

mines welcome visitors, including Nsuta

Manganese, Prestea and Tarkwa.

To visit the Western Region is to discover

an area that reveals many of Ghana’s

greatest and most diverse attractions. For

those interested in the nation’s history

or keen to visit unique sites, the Western

Region is the place to be.






Bia National Park is a resource and

biosphere reserve embracing some of

Ghana’s last remnants of untouched

forest and diverse wildlife. Some of

the tallest trees left in West Africa are

found in Bia.

Located near the Ivorian border, the

national park was created in 1935 and

named after the Bia River that drains

the area. It became an official national

park in 1974. Intensive farming

had destroyed much of the original

vegetation, but since 1975 no farming

or logging has been allowed and in

1985 the park was designated a World

Heritage Site by Unesco.

The park is home to 62 species

of mammals, including 10 primate

species and over 160 species of birds.

Protected communities of forest

antelope live in Bia National Park,

which is also the only known location

of the newly discovered Agama

sylvanus lizard.

Bia National Park

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Ghana Tourism Authority Regional offices, addresses and telephone numbers

HEAD OFFiCE

Postal address: P. O. Box GP 3106, Accra.

Location: No. 2, 2nd Avenue, South Ridge,

Near British High Commission / GIJ,

Adjacent GFA

Tel: +233 302 682601 / 682607

/ 682608

Tel: +233 24 4313653

Fax: +233 302 682510

Email: [email protected]

www.ghana.travel


@ghanatourismGTA

AsHAnTi REGiOn


P.O. Box KS 12578, Kumasi

Tel: 03220 26243 / 35848

Fax: 03220 26243

BROnG AHAFO REGiOn


P.O. Box SY 802, Sunyani

Tel: 03520 27108

CEnTRAL REGiOn


P.O. Box CT 847, Cape Coast

Tel: 03320 32062 / 0277 412305

Fax: 03320 36622 / 34635

EAsTERn REGiOn


P.O. Box KF 771, Koforidua

Tel: 03420 23209

Fax: 03420 24878

GREATER ACCRA


4th floor, Accra

Tel: 244612 / 231817 / 024 683841

Fax: 030 222612

nORTHERn REGiOn


P.O. Box TL 1053, Tamale

Tel: 03720 24835 / 24834

Fax: 03720 24835

UppER WEsT REGiOn


P.O. Box WA 289, WA

Tel: 03920 22431 / 23431

Fax: 03920 22431

UppER EAsT REGiOn


P.O. Box BG 395, Bolga

Tel: 03820 23416 / 23482 / 024 526368

Fax: 03820 23578

VOLTA REGiOn GHANA TOURISM AUTHORITY

P.O. Box HP 568, Ho

Tel: 0362 26560

Fax: 0362 26010

WEsTERn REGiOn


P.O. Box TD 781, Takoradi

Tel: 03120 22357

Fax: 03120 23601

TEMA OFFiCE


Tel: 03029 85351 / 85350

Directory



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Useful Contacts

MinisTRy OF TOURisM, CULTURE AnD CREATiVE ARTs

P.O. Box 4386, Accra

Tel: +233 302 666314

www.ghanatourism.gov.gh

GHAnA ExpORT pROMOTiOn COUnCiL (GEpC)

Republic House, Tudu Road

P.O. Box M146, Accra

Tel: +233 302 683153 / 689889

Fax: +233 302 677256


www.gepcghana.com

GHAnA nATiOnAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AnD inDUsTRy

2nd floor Adabla Plaza, Oroko Street,

Kokomlemle

P.O. Box 2325, Accra

Tel: +233 302 7012780/81

Fax: +233 302 255202



www.ghanachamber.org

GHAnA inVEsTMEnT pROMOTiOn CEnTRE

Public Services Commission Building

P.O. Box M193

Ministries, Accra

Tel: +233 302 665125/9

Fax: +233 302 663801 / 2663655


www.gipcghana.com

GHAnA FREE ZOnEs BOARD

P.O. Box M626, Accra, Ghana

Tel: +233 302 780535 / 785037

/ 785038

Fax: +233 302 780536 / 780537


www.gfzb.com.gh

GHAnA FOREsTRy COMMissiOn

Achimota Forest Reserve,

West Legon, Accra

P.O. Box MB434 Accra, Ghana

Tel: +233 302 401210 / 401216

Fax: 233 302 401197


KORLE BU TEACHinG HOspiTAL

P.O. Box 77 Korle Bu, Accra

Tel: +233 302 665401 / 673033

/ 664570

Tel: +233 302 665740

37 Military Hospital

Liberation Road, Accra

Tel: +233 302 7776111 / 777595

/ 781802

KOMFO AnOKyE TEACHinG HOspiTAL


Tel: +233 322 024654 / 033409

/ 024621

pOLiCE HOspiTAL

P.O. Box 116 Cantonments, Accra

Tel: +233 302 762389

Tel: +233 302 773900 / 3311 / 3383

THE TRUsT HOspiTAL

P.O. Box M 149, Accra

Tel: +233 302 761974 / 761978

GHAnA pOLiCE sERViCE HEADqUARTERs

Cantonments, near Ako Adjei interchange

Tel: +233 302 776672 / 761250

EMERGEnCy TEL: 191

TIGO 0277522288

Fax: +233 302 773906

Email: [email protected],


Special crime fighters telephone

short code: 18555

MinisTRy OF FOREiGn AFFAiRs AnD REGiOnAL inTEGRATiOn

P.O. Box M53 Accra

Tel: +233 302 664952 / 201000

/ 201001-5

Fax: +233 302 665363 / 201001-42


Directory



56

MinisTRy OF inFORMATiOn

P.O. Box M41 Accra

Tel: +233 302 229870

Fax: +233 302 229870


GHAnA iMMiGRATiOn sERViCE

Head Office, Accra

Tel: +233 302 22445 / 221667 / 674125


THE TOURisT WATCH

PMB 72, Accra

Plot No. 10, Ring-Road East

Tel: +233 302 998805


www.touristswatch.com

GHAnA COMMERCiAL BAnK

Head Office, P.O. Box 134 Accra

Tel: +233 302 663964


GHAnA TOURisT DEVELOpMEnT COMpAny LTD

Ringway Estates, Plot 54

P.O. Box AN 8710, Accra

Tel: +233 0181 342 6686

Fax: 0171 245 9552

nATiOnAL COMMissiOn On CULTURE

1 Gamel Abdul Nasser Avenue, PMB

Tel: +233 302 661030 / 669836

/ 663440


www.ghanaculture.gov.gh

THE nATiOnAL MUsEUM

2 Barnes Road, Adabraka

Tel: +233 302 221633 / 221635

www.ghanamuseums.org

MAnHiyA pALACE MUsEUM


Tel: +23 322 023680


www.manhiyapalacemuseum.org

THE WEB DUBOis MEMORiAL CEnTRE

For Pan African Culture

1 Circular Road, Cantonments, Accra

Tel: +233 302 776502

THE GHAnA TOURisM FEDERATiOn (GHATOF)

PMB CT295 Cantonments, Accra

Tel: +233 302 252277

Tel: +233 244 406525

Fax: +233 302 252277


www.ghanatourismfederation.org

Directory

http://www.ethiopianairlines.com




Head Office

Postal address: P. O. Box GP 3106, accra.

Location: No. 2, 2nd avenue, South Ridge,

Near British High commission / GiJ, adjacent Gfa

Tel: +233 302 682601 / 682607 / 682608

Tel: +233 24 4313653

fax: +233 302 682510

email: [email protected]

www.ghana.travel

Ghana Tourism authority

@ghanatourismGTa

This is Ghana 2015

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