Thing to do
Makola Market
Accra's best-known market, run largely by women traders, where crowded lanes sell everything from fresh produce and fabrics to beads, pots and tools.
Shai Hills Resource Reserve
The nearest wildlife reserve to Accra, where baboons, kob and over 170 bird species live among rocky hills, caves and grassland once home to the Shai people.
At a glance
- Type
- Wildlife reserve and hiking
- Area
- Doryumu (day trip), Accra, Ghana
Good to know
- Game viewing
- Hiking
- Rock climbing
- Caves
- Camping
- Birdwatching
Why we recommend it
Shai Hills Resource Reserve is the easiest place to see wildlife on a day out from Accra. It lies at Doryumu in the Shai Osudoku District of Greater Accra, along the road from Tema to Akosombo, and covers about 51 square kilometres of grassland, dry forest and rocky hills. The area has a long human history: the Shai people lived among these hills until the British expelled them in 1892, and traces of their settlements remain. It became a forest reserve in 1962 and a game production reserve in 1971.
The landscape is built around five separate forested hills, with grassland and low dry forest in the valleys between them. Baboons are the reserve's best-known residents, and they gather near the main gate, but you can also see green monkeys, kob and bushbuck antelope, reptiles and more than 170 species of birds. Exploring the caves in the hills, where the Shai once lived, is one of the highlights. Other activities include hiking, rock climbing, game viewing, birdwatching and camping, and quad bike tours run occasionally.
The reserve suits active travellers, families with older children, birdwatchers and anyone who wants open space and a change from the city. Hikes and cave visits involve climbing over rocks in the heat, so a reasonable level of fitness helps. Go with a ranger or guide, who can lead you to the caves and help you find animals.
The reserve is open every day, including public holidays, from 08:00 to 17:00. Early morning is the best time for game viewing and is also the coolest part of the day. The baboons at the front gate are used to people and will snatch unattended bags and food, so keep belongings closed and do not feed them. Wear sturdy shoes, a hat and sun protection, and bring plenty of water as shade is limited. Bookings and enquiries can be made by phone or WhatsApp.
Most visitors come by car or with a tour, as public transport to the gate is limited. The drive passes through Tema, and the reserve can be combined with a trip to Akosombo or the Volta region for a longer excursion. Accommodation is available nearby for those who want to camp or stay close by and start early.
Shai Hills Resource Reserve FAQs
Where is Shai Hills Resource Reserve?
At Doryumu in the Shai Osudoku District of Greater Accra, on the Tema to Akosombo road.
What animals can I see?
Baboons, green monkeys, kob and bushbuck antelope, reptiles and more than 170 bird species.
What are the opening hours?
Every day, including holidays, from 08:00 to 17:00.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning, when animals are most active and it is cooler.
Are the baboons dangerous?
They are used to people and will snatch unattended bags and food, so keep belongings closed and do not feed them.
What activities are available?
Hiking, rock climbing, cave exploration, game viewing, birdwatching, camping and occasional quad bike tours.
Can I camp there?
Yes, camping is one of the activities offered.
How do I get there?
By car or with a tour; the drive goes via Tema towards Akosombo.