Attraction
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
The memorial park where Kwame Nkrumah declared Ghana's independence, holding the marble mausoleum of Ghana's first president and his wife, plus a museum and library.
Kakum National Park
A protected rainforest north of Cape Coast, famous for a canopy walkway of seven suspension bridges strung high between giant trees, plus guided forest and night walks.
At a glance
- Type
- National park and canopy walkway
- Area
- Central Region (day trip), Accra, Ghana
Good to know
- Canopy walkway
- Guided forest walks
- Visitor centre
- Cafes
- Gift shop
- Treehouse accommodation
Why we recommend it
Kakum National Park protects about 375 square kilometres of tropical rainforest in Ghana's Central Region, around 33 kilometres north of Cape Coast. The forest was first set aside as a reserve in 1931 and became a national park in 1992. It is managed by Ghana's wildlife authorities and is home to rare species including the Diana monkey, the yellow-backed duiker, the bongo antelope and a population of forest elephants, although these are shy and seldom seen by day visitors.
The canopy walkway is the reason most people come. Seven suspension bridges, linked by platforms built around tall trees, form a walkway roughly 330 metres long that sways high above the forest floor. It was built by two Canadian engineers working with Ghanaian assistants, and walking it gives a rare view of the rainforest from the treetops, with birdsong all around. Kakum is excellent for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species recorded including several kinds of hornbill, and its butterflies are also a draw. Beyond the walkway, guides lead forest walks that explain the medicinal uses of plants, and guided night walks are available for those who want to hear the forest after dark.
The park suits families with school-age children, couples and nature lovers. The walkway is narrow, moves underfoot and is high, so it is not suitable for anyone with a strong fear of heights, and it needs a reasonable level of mobility. A children's park with mini canopy swings and play areas offers an alternative for younger visitors. The visitor centre has exhibits, two cafés serving simple food and drinks, an open-air restaurant and a craft shop, and there is a treehouse for overnight stays for those who want to watch wildlife at dawn.
The official tourism site gives opening hours of 06:00 to 16:00. Arrive early, when the forest is cooler, quieter and best for birds, and before the busiest part of the day. Wear closed shoes, bring water and insect repellent, and expect rain at any time of year. Allow two to three hours at the park.
Kakum is about four hours' drive from Accra, so it is best combined with Cape Coast and Elmina castles on a two-day trip or a long guided day tour. Public transport runs via Cape Coast, where taxis can be hired for the final stretch.
Kakum National Park FAQs
What is Kakum National Park known for?
Its canopy walkway of seven suspension bridges running high through the rainforest canopy.
How long is the canopy walkway?
Roughly 330 metres in total, made up of seven bridges.
How far is Kakum from Accra?
About four hours' drive; it is 33 kilometres north of Cape Coast.
What are the opening hours?
The official tourism site lists 06:00 to 16:00; check before you travel.
Will I see elephants?
Forest elephants live in the park but are shy and rarely seen on a day visit; birds and butterflies are more likely.
Is the walkway suitable for everyone?
It is high, narrow and moves, so it is not ideal for people with a fear of heights or limited mobility.
Can I stay overnight?
Yes. A treehouse offers basic overnight accommodation for wildlife watching.
Is there food at the park?
Yes. The visitor centre has two cafés and an open-air restaurant.