Ghana, often called “Africa for beginners,” offers a perfect blend of rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality. This West African gem boasts pristine beaches along its Atlantic coastline, vibrant markets bursting with color, and historical sites that tell powerful stories of its past. From the bustling streets of Accra to the serene shores of Lake Volta, Ghana presents diverse experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters in national parks, cultural immersion in traditional villages, or relaxation on golden beaches, Ghana delivers unforgettable memories. Join us as we explore the 20 best places to visit in this welcoming country that perfectly balances tradition and modernity.
1. Accra
Location: Greater Accra Region
Ghana’s vibrant capital is a fascinating blend of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and bustling markets. As the country’s economic and administrative hub, Accra offers visitors an authentic taste of contemporary Ghanaian life while preserving important historical sites.
Why Visit: Accra serves as the perfect introduction to Ghana’s culture, offering excellent museums, art galleries, and some of the country’s best restaurants and nightlife.
Highlights:
- Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum, dedicated to Ghana’s first president
- Makola Market, a sprawling marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods
- Labadi Beach, the city’s most popular shoreline with weekend entertainment and food vendors
Pro Tip: Visit Jamestown, Accra’s oldest district, for a walking tour led by local guides who can share insights about the area’s history and significance.
2. Cape Coast
Location: Central Region
Once the capital of the Gold Coast, Cape Coast is now a fishing port with profound historical significance. The town’s colonial architecture and somber historical sites make it an essential stop for understanding Ghana’s past, particularly its role in the transatlantic slave trade.
Why Visit: Cape Coast offers a powerful educational experience about Ghana’s colonial history while also providing beautiful beaches and access to nearby natural attractions.
Highlights:
- Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site where enslaved Africans were held before transport
- Kakum National Park, featuring a famous canopy walkway suspended 30 meters above the forest floor
- Brenu Beach, a tranquil stretch of coastline perfect for escaping the crowds
Pro Tip: The best time to visit Cape Coast is during the dry seasons (November to March and July to August) when rainfall is minimal and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
3. Elmina
Location: Central Region
Just a short drive from Cape Coast, Elmina is a historic fishing town centered around St. George’s Castle (Elmina Castle). Built in 1482, it’s the oldest European structure in sub-Saharan Africa and played a significant role in the gold and slave trades.
Why Visit: Elmina offers a glimpse into Ghana’s colonial past while showcasing the vibrant fishing culture that continues to thrive today.
Highlights:
- Elmina Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site with guided tours explaining its dark history
- Elmina Fish Market, where you can witness the daily catch being brought in by colorful fishing boats
- Dutch Cemetery, dating back to the 1800s, containing graves of European traders and officials
Pro Tip: Visit the harbor early in the morning to see the fishing boats return with their catch and experience the lively fish auction that follows.
4. Kumasi
Location: Ashanti Region
Known as the cultural heart of Ghana, Kumasi is the historic capital of the Ashanti Kingdom. The city remains the center of Ashanti culture and is famous for its vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and royal heritage.
Why Visit: Kumasi offers unparalleled insights into Ashanti traditions, craftsmanship, and royal history that continue to influence Ghanaian culture today.
Highlights:
- Manhyia Palace Museum, showcasing the history of the Ashanti kings and royal artifacts
- Kejetia Market, one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa with over 10,000 stalls
- National Cultural Centre, where artisans demonstrate traditional crafts like kente weaving and woodcarving
Pro Tip: Try to time your visit with an Akwasidae Festival, which occurs every sixth Sunday and features traditional ceremonies honoring Ashanti ancestors.
5. Mole National Park
Location: Northern Region
Ghana’s largest wildlife sanctuary, Mole National Park spans over 4,500 square kilometers of savanna and forest habitat. Home to elephants, antelopes, buffalo, and over 300 bird species, it offers Ghana’s premier safari experience.
Why Visit: Mole provides affordable wildlife viewing opportunities with the unique option of walking safaris accompanied by armed rangers.
Highlights:
- Safari drives and walking tours to spot elephants, warthogs, baboons, and occasionally predators
- Mole Motel, perched on an escarpment with views of elephants bathing at the watering hole below
- Visits to nearby Larabanga village with its ancient mosque dating back to the 15th century
Pro Tip: The best wildlife viewing is during the dry season (January to March) when animals gather around water sources.
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6. Kakum National Park
Location: Central Region
Just 33 kilometers north of Cape Coast, Kakum National Park protects 375 square kilometers of tropical rainforest. The park is home to over 40 mammal species, 300 bird species, and a remarkable diversity of butterflies and plants.
Why Visit: Kakum’s famous canopy walkway offers a unique perspective of the rainforest from 30 meters above the ground.
Highlights:
- The Canopy Walkway, a series of seven bridges suspended among treetops with panoramic forest views
- Guided nature walks with knowledgeable rangers explaining the forest ecosystem
- Visitor center with educational exhibits about rainforest conservation
Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning (around 8 AM) to experience the canopy walkway before the crowds arrive and when wildlife is most active.
7. Lake Volta
Location: Eastern Region
Created by the Akosombo Dam in the 1960s, Lake Volta is the largest man-made lake in the world by surface area. This massive body of water stretches across eastern Ghana, creating a stunning landscape of islands and inlets.
Why Visit: Lake Volta offers peaceful boat cruises, fishing opportunities, and a chance to experience rural Ghanaian life in the fishing communities along its shores.
Highlights:
- Dodi Island, a popular day-trip destination with beaches and picnic areas
- Akosombo Dam, an engineering marvel that generates much of Ghana’s electricity
- Boat tours to fishing villages where you can observe traditional fishing methods
Pro Tip: The Dodi Princess cruise ship offers scheduled trips to Dodi Island with lunch and entertainment included.
8. Wli Waterfalls
Location: Volta Region
Located near the border with Togo, Wli Waterfalls (also known as Agumatsa Falls) is the highest waterfall in West Africa. The falls consist of upper and lower sections, with the upper falls requiring a challenging hike to reach.
Why Visit: The spectacular 80-meter cascade offers a refreshing swimming opportunity and the chance to see thousands of fruit bats clinging to the surrounding cliffs.
Highlights:
- Lower falls, easily accessible via a 45-minute walk through beautiful forest
- Upper falls, reached by a more strenuous 3-hour hike with rewarding views
- Bat viewing, with thousands of fruit bats inhabiting the cliff faces near the falls
Pro Tip: Bring swimwear to enjoy the cool, refreshing pool at the base of the lower falls after your hike.
9. Mount Afadja
Location: Volta Region
Rising to 885 meters, Mount Afadja (also called Mount Afadjato) is the highest mountain in Ghana. Located in the Agumatsa Range near the Togo border, it offers challenging hiking and spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Why Visit: The mountain provides adventure seekers with a rewarding climb and panoramic views across Ghana and into neighboring Togo.
Highlights:
- Summit hike, a challenging 2-3 hour climb through forest and grassland
- Tagbo Falls, a nearby waterfall that makes for a perfect post-hike cooldown
- Bird watching opportunities with over 200 species recorded in the area
Pro Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and have clearer views from the summit.
10. Busua Beach
Location: Western Region
Busua Beach is one of Ghana’s most beautiful coastal stretches, offering a perfect balance of development and natural beauty. This 3km stretch of golden sand is lined with palm trees and has become a popular spot for both Ghanaians and international visitors.
Why Visit: Busua offers excellent swimming conditions, a laid-back atmosphere, and Ghana’s best surfing opportunities.
Highlights:
- Surfing lessons and board rentals from Mr. Bright’s Surf School
- Fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, especially the grilled lobster
- Day trips to nearby Fort Metal Cross in Dixcove, a well-preserved 17th-century fort
Pro Tip: The best surfing conditions occur between December and March when the swells are consistent and perfect for beginners.
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11. Nzulezo Stilt Village
Location: Western Region
Nzulezo is a unique village built entirely on stilts over Lake Tadane. The name means “surface of water” in the local language, and the settlement was established by migrants from Mali centuries ago. Today, around 500 people live in this remarkable community.
Why Visit: Nzulezo offers a fascinating glimpse into a traditional way of life that has adapted to living in harmony with the water.
Highlights:
- Canoe journey through mangrove forests to reach the village
- Guided tour of the village, including the school, church, and homes
- Cultural performances and demonstrations of traditional crafts
Pro Tip: Visit in the morning when the water is calmer for a more comfortable canoe ride to the village.
12. Aburi Botanical Gardens
Location: Eastern Region
Established in 1890, the Aburi Botanical Gardens cover 64 hectares in the cool hills about 30km north of Accra. The gardens feature a diverse collection of tropical plants, including exotic and indigenous species, arranged in beautiful landscapes.
Why Visit: Aburi offers a refreshing escape from the heat and bustle of Accra, with cooler temperatures and peaceful surroundings.
Highlights:
- Palm Avenue, a stunning corridor of royal palms planted in 1905
- Historical trees planted by visiting dignitaries, including one by Queen Elizabeth II
- Magnificent views of the Accra plains from various vantage points
Pro Tip: Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Aburi Craft Village, where you can purchase handmade drums, carvings, and textiles directly from artisans.
13. Paga Crocodile Pond
Location: Upper East Region
The sacred crocodile ponds of Paga are home to over 100 Nile crocodiles that, remarkably, coexist peacefully with humans. According to local belief, these crocodiles embody the souls of the community’s ancestors and are therefore treated with reverence.
Why Visit: Paga offers the unique opportunity to safely interact with wild crocodiles under the guidance of local handlers.
Highlights:
- Crocodile encounters, where visitors can touch and even sit on the backs of these docile reptiles
- Bird watching around the ponds, which attract numerous water birds
- Learning about the local myths and legends that explain the special relationship between the people and crocodiles
Pro Tip: Bring a chicken to purchase as an offering for the crocodiles, which will entice them out of the water for better photo opportunities.
14. Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary
Location: Volta Region
The Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary protects a sacred grove where mona monkeys have been revered by locals for generations. Once threatened by hunting and habitat loss, the monkeys are now protected through community-based ecotourism initiatives.
Why Visit: The sanctuary offers close encounters with friendly monkeys in their natural forest habitat while supporting local conservation efforts.
Highlights:
- Guided forest walks to observe and feed the monkeys, which have become habituated to human presence
- Cultural performances showcasing traditional music and dance
- Community tours to learn about local traditions and daily life
Pro Tip: Bring bananas to feed the monkeys, but follow your guide’s instructions carefully about how to interact with the animals safely.
15. Labadi Beach
Location: Greater Accra Region
Labadi Beach (officially La Pleasure Beach) is Accra’s most popular beach and a vibrant hub of activity, especially on weekends. This stretch of golden sand attracts both locals and tourists with its lively atmosphere and entertainment options.
Why Visit: Labadi offers a quintessential Ghanaian beach experience with music, food, and cultural performances all in one location.
Highlights:
- Weekend entertainment including live music, acrobatic performances, and traditional drumming
- Beach sports such as soccer, volleyball, and horse riding
- Numerous food stalls serving fresh seafood and Ghanaian specialties
Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday if you prefer a quieter experience, as weekends can get extremely crowded with locals and tourists alike.
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16. Lake Bosumtwe
Location: Ashanti Region
Lake Bosumtwe is Ghana’s only natural lake, formed in a meteorite impact crater approximately 1.3 million years ago. Considered sacred by the Ashanti people, the lake is surrounded by lush hills and traditional fishing villages.
Why Visit: The lake offers a peaceful retreat with swimming, boating, and hiking opportunities in a unique geological setting.
Highlights:
- Swimming and boat rides on the crater lake’s calm waters
- Hiking trails in the surrounding hills with panoramic views
- Visits to traditional fishing villages to observe unique fishing methods using wooden paddles
Pro Tip: Stay overnight at one of the lakeside lodges to experience the magical sunrise over the crater lake.
17. Jamestown
Location: Greater Accra Region
Jamestown is one of Accra’s oldest districts, characterized by colonial buildings, a historic lighthouse, and a busy fishing harbor. Despite its dilapidated appearance, this vibrant community offers an authentic glimpse into local urban life and Ghana’s colonial past.
Why Visit: Jamestown provides photographers and culture enthusiasts with colorful scenes of daily life and important historical landmarks.
Highlights:
- Jamestown Lighthouse, built in the 1930s and offering panoramic views from its top
- Jamestown Fishing Harbor, where you can observe traditional fishing practices and the daily fish market
- Street art and murals created during the annual Chale Wote Street Art Festival
Pro Tip: Take a guided walking tour with a local organization like “Jamestown Walking Tours” to gain deeper insights into the area’s history and community life.
18. Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary
Location: Bono East Region
The Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary protects two species of monkeys—black and white colobus and mona monkeys—that are considered sacred by the local communities. The sanctuary encompasses a forest reserve between the twin villages of Boabeng and Fiema.
Why Visit: The sanctuary offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in a community-based conservation setting.
Highlights:
- Guided forest walks to observe both monkey species in their natural habitat
- Monkey cemetery, where deceased sacred monkeys are buried with traditional ceremonies
- Cultural experiences in the Boabeng and Fiema villages
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon when the monkeys are most active and visible.
19. Kokrobite Beach
Location: Greater Accra Region
Located just 30km west of Accra, Kokrobite Beach has developed into a popular weekend getaway for both locals and tourists. The beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere, reggae music, and the influential Big Milly’s Backyard lodge and cultural center.
Why Visit: Kokrobite offers a more relaxed alternative to Labadi Beach, with a focus on music, drumming, and cultural exchange.
Highlights:
- Drumming and dance workshops at the Academy of African Music and Arts
- Live reggae performances at beach bars, especially on weekends
- Fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants
Pro Tip: If you’re interested in learning traditional drumming, arrange lessons in advance at the Academy of African Music and Arts (AAMA).
20. Wa
Location: Upper West Region
Wa is the capital of Ghana’s Upper West Region and offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s northern cultures and traditions. The city is known for its impressive central mosque, traditional architecture, and as a gateway to Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary.
Why Visit: Wa provides an authentic experience of northern Ghana, far from the typical tourist trail.
Highlights:
- Wa Central Mosque, built in Sudanese architectural style with distinctive mud towers
- Wa Naa’s Palace, the traditional residence of the paramount chief of the Wala people
- Day trips to Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary to observe hippos in the Black Volta River
Pro Tip: Visit during the Dumba Festival (September/October) to witness traditional dances, drumming, and cultural ceremonies.
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Conclusion
Ghana offers travelers a perfect introduction to West Africa with its diverse attractions, from historic coastal forts to wildlife-rich national parks and vibrant cultural centers. Whether you’re drawn to the country for its historical significance, natural beauty, or cultural experiences, Ghana delivers memorable encounters at every turn. The warmth and hospitality of Ghanaians make exploring these 20 destinations even more rewarding, creating connections that last long after your journey ends.
As you plan your Ghanaian adventure, remember that the best experiences often come from venturing beyond the typical tourist sites and embracing spontaneous interactions with locals. Take your time, be open to unexpected discoveries, and allow yourself to fall under the spell of this captivating country.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Ghana
What is the best time to visit Ghana?
The best time to visit Ghana is during the dry seasons from November to March and July to August. These periods offer more comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities with less rainfall. December to February is particularly pleasant with cooler temperatures and clear skies.
Is Ghana safe for tourists?
Ghana is considered one of the safest countries in Africa for tourists. The country has a stable democracy, low crime rates, and a reputation for hospitality. As with any destination, visitors should take standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure.
Do I need a visa to visit Ghana?
Most visitors to Ghana require a visa. However, Ghana has recently introduced an e-visa system and visa-on-arrival for many nationalities. Check the latest requirements with the Ghanaian embassy or consulate in your country before traveling.
What vaccinations do I need for Ghana?
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for all travelers to Ghana. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, and routine vaccines. Malaria prophylaxis is also strongly advised. Consult with a travel health professional before your trip.
What is the currency in Ghana?
The currency in Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). ATMs are widely available in major cities and towns, and credit cards are accepted at upscale hotels and restaurants. It’s advisable to carry cash when traveling to rural areas.
