20 Must-Visit Tourist Sites in Ghana - The Best Things to Do in Ghana

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Ocean water and sand next to a large tree under a blu sky with clouds
There are many sites in Ghana that are breathtakingly beautiful

Ghana is a beautiful country located in the western part of Africa. It is a small country with impressive sites to show the world. This African destination is considered one of the more "stable" ones as well when it comes to democracy and gradual development.

Ghana is also regarded as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, with citizens full of hope and joy. With its sunny beaches, lively cities, friendly people, and easy methods of travelling around the country, Ghana is a great place for tourists.

There are 16 regions in Ghana, but it is mainly divided into the Northern and Southern parts. There are beautiful places in Ghana in almost every area.

For example, when you go to the southern part of Ghana, you will find attractions like Kakum National Park, and if you head to the northern region, you can discover places like Mole National Park. Continue reading to learn more about these and other top tourist sites in Ghana!

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19 Tourist Sites in Ghana

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A long hanging rope walkway passing through a forest
Kakum National Park is home to many endangered animals and has a canopy walk

Kakum National Park

Considered the nation's park, Kakum National Park is a destination that everyone must see. It has an area of 145 square meters and is situated on the coast of southern Ghana (specifically the central part of of Ghana). The attraction is home to many endangered animals as well, especially mammals like antelopes and elephants.

There is also a canopy walk suspended about 30 meters above the ground. The canopy walk can sometimes be scary if you are trying it for the first time, but it shouldn't be a problem if you have a sense of adventure. It provides a view above the trees and allows you to appreciate the surrounding nature.

Two waterfalls with a plunge pool surrounded by green trees
Boti Falls is a twin waterfall that are said to represent a male and a female

Boti Falls

Waterfalls always attract people from all over the country and around the world, and Boti Falls is no different. Located in the Eastern Region of Ghana, 17km northeast of Koforidua, is a Ghana attraction with a history.

Boti Falls is an integral part of Ghana. According to history, Boti Falls is a twin waterfall, specifically male and female, representing the upper and lower falls.

The locals believe that when the volume of water becomes high, the two falls are mating, so a mating ceremony is organized. A rainbow is usually formed during the ceremony when there is a continuous splashing of water.

Okomfo Anokye Sword Site

Okomfo Anokye is a popular character in the history of the Ashanti Kingdom. He was the first priest of the Kingdom, and through his help, the Ashanti Kingdom expanded and overcame its enemies.

About 300 years ago, before Okomfo Anokye died, he struck his sword into the ground and pronounced that no one would be able to remove it.

To this day, no one has accomplished this, despite many attempts. When you are in Kumasi as a tourist, going to this site should be included on your list of activities to do in Ghana. The site offers insight into the beginning of the Ashanti Kingdom.

🏨 Accommodation in close proximity to Okomfo Anokye Sword Site

A wooden boat on the water with a mountain range to the right and trees to the left
Lake Volta flows across Ghana and is the largest artificial lake in the world

Lake Volta

The Volta Region is the least-visited area in Ghana, even though it has many tourist sites like mountains, waterfalls, and lakes.

Lake Volta is found here and is the largest artificial lake in the world. With a surface area of 8,502 square kilometres, Lake Volta flows around the whole country.

The prominent lake is contained by the Akosombo Dam and is used to provide transportation. It also generates electricity for the people of Ghana. Volta Lake sustains a serene environment that allows you to feel free and release stress.

Aburi Botanical Gardens

Since Ghana is located in Africa, the country and nature benefit from the warmer climate, making the Aburi Botanical Gardens one of the most attractive sites in Ghana!

The gardens were officially opened in March 1890 and are located in the town of Aburi, hence its name, which is about 30km north of Accra in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The gardens consist of 160 acres, with 157 acres reserved and the 3 acres developed into basic infrastructure.

Visiting the Aburi Gardens is a calming journey that can take your mind off the stress you might be going through in life. Because it is approximately a 45-minute drive from Accra, you can easily travel here to have a picnic with your family and enjoy what nature offers.

One of the top tourist sites in Ghana is Mole National Park
Mole National Park has lots of wildlife and is one of the top tourist sites in Ghana

Mole National Park

Another of the best places in Ghana is the Northern Region. Located in the northern part of Ghana, Mole National Park is the habitat of endangered species like elephants, roan antelope, and a few rare birds.

As this national park has a land size of 4,840 square kilometres, it is one of the most suitable places to go when you want to explore nature. This attraction was the first park reserved by Ghana to conserve wildlife. It protects over 300 bird species, 94 mammals, and several other wildlife creatures.

Labadi Beach

When you go to Accra, you will find that the coastline is full of popular beaches that are great places for relaxation and entertainment.

Labadi Beach, popularly known to Ghanaians as La Pleasure Beach, is one of the busiest beaches on the coast of Ghana and is maintained by the Labadi Beach Hotel and La Palm Royal Beach Hotel. This area is definitely one of the can't-miss Ghana tourist attractions!

If you are in Accra for a business trip and looking for some relaxing things to do in Ghana, then Labadi Beach could be the place for you to sit back and relax in your spare time.

People crowd the beach to enjoy themselves during the weekends, playing games, horseback riding, and dancing to loud music in the background. If you are the quiet type, the weekdays are the best time to relax at Labadi Beach.

🏨 Accommodation in close proximity to Labadi Beach

A forest with a waterfall in the center
Wli Waterfalls is also called Agumatsa Falls and is the highest waterfall in Ghana

Wli Waterfalls

When you desire a serene place to visit to have a pleasant, relaxing time, then the best landmark to see is a waterfall.

In the Volta Region of Ghana, a 5-hour journey when driving from Accra, you can find Agumatsa Falls, also popularly known as Wli Waterfalls. Wli Falls is recognised as the highest waterfall in Ghana and West Africa, making it a top tourist site and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ghana.

You can engage in lots of activities when you visit the Wli Waterfalls. For example, you can choose to relax by enjoying the flow of the falls or by swimming in the water.

If you want to challenge yourself, you can go hiking with a guide to the top of the falls. At the top is the shrine of the lesser gods, which the village ancestors believed to have been brought from Togo.

A waterfall ending in a plunge pool surrounded by trees and rocks
The primary attraction at Kintampo Falls is the view from the top

Kintampo Falls

Another waterfall in Ghana that fascinates visitors is Kintampo Falls. It is located exactly 4km away from Kintampo Township when driving from Kumasi to Kintampo in the Brong Ahafo Region. The waterfall is shaped like a staircase, whereby the water disappears and resurfaces about 200 meters away from the original location.

At the top of the falls, the view shows you how magnificent nature can be. The scenery and view is the primary attraction of this place. After visiting Kintampo Falls, you can also visit the Boambeng Fiema Monkey Sanctuary, which is located in the same area as well.

A large lake with lush green mountains in the background
Lake Bosomtwe is an excellent place to go boating or swimming

Lake Bosomtwe

The Ashanti Region of Ghana has many tourist sites that attract thousands of visitors from outside the country. In Kumasi, the area's capital, you can find the only natural lake in Ghana, Lake Bosomtwe.

The lake has an area of about 49 square kilometres and a depth of 70-74 meters. Mountains surround the lake, and it serves as a habitat for different fish species. A story is told that the lake was created when a meteorite hit the town.

You might be wondering what to do when you visit the famous Lake Bosomtwe in Ghana. You can go diving, boating, swimming, and even hiking in the nearby mountains. There are a lot of activities available to do here; you just have to find one that suits your style.

Lakeside Marina Park

Ghana has a few recreational parks, but most are located in Accra, Greater Accra Region. Lakeside Marina Park was established in 2003. The park maintains a relaxing atmosphere, with well-kept facilities that ensure visitors will always have a good time.

Lakeside Marina Park is the place to take your family. They have games like swings, slides, and play sets for children to keep themselves occupied while the adults relax. The outdoor attraction also has water activities like canoeing and boating, which is a great activity for couples.

A mud and wood building with logs in front and a tree to its right
The Larabanga Mosque was built in 1421 and is the oldest mosque in Ghana

Larabanga Mosque

The Larabanga Mosque is the oldest in Ghana and is located in Larabanga in the Northern Region of Ghana (Savannah Region). It was built in 1421 and is usually referred to as "the Mecca of West Africa".

Due to the Mosque's rich history, it currently features on the World Monuments Fund's "Watch List of 100 Most Endangered Sites". The Mosque was inspired by the Sudanese architectural style and made with mud and sticks. Because of its rich history, it is one of the most popular tourist spots in Ghana.

The history behind the Mosque and its construction is still a mystery. A story is told that a Muslim named Ayuba built the Mosque. He was travelling through the area and needed to rest.

When he fell asleep, he dreamt about building a mosque, and after waking up, the foundation had been set, so he completed it from that point. This is the place to be if you are a religious person and want to see one of the most important sacred sites in Ghana.

Kumasi Zoological Gardens

Another tourist site in the Ashanti Region, specifically Kumasi, is the Kumasi Zoological Gardens. The Zoo was built in 1951 and occupies an area of 1.5 square kilometres. It is located between the old Kumasi racecourse and the Kumasi Centre for National Culture.

The Kumasi Zoo was created to conserve endangered wildlife creatures in Ghana. It has various animals, like lions, baboons, and camels, and a few bird types, such as parrots, eagles, and ostriches.

This Zoo is the best place to explore if you want to interact with African animals in Kumasi.

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A bungalow next to bushes and a statue of a lion, and a car parked in the driveway
The Manhyia Palace is the residence of the Chief of Asanteman

The Manhyia Palace

Ghana has many traditional communities. When I say traditional, it means that the local people still believe in the Chiefs' important role in the country's growth.

The Ashanti Region has several chiefs, but the most prestigious among them is the Asantehene of Asanteman. The Manhyia Palace is where the Chief resides.

Visiting the Manhyia Palace will show you the unique cultures of the Ashanti Region. You will get the opportunity to meet and interact with the Chief himself. The people of Ghana don't joke with their culture, so it is crucial to learn part of it, especially when you visit, to help you interact with them appropriately.

Ussher Fort Museum

The Dutch built Ussher Fort in 1649 in Accra, but its previous name was Fort Crèvecœur. It is one of three forts constructed by the Europeans for trading back in the 17th century.

It was transferred to the British Administrator and renamed Ussher Fort after him. The British Administrator carried out a crucial role in the Exchange of Territories between both countries during that time.

The Ussher Fort is located about 500m away from James Fort, which is also in Accra. The Fort became a prison for enslaved people until 1993.

Today, the Fort is used as a museum, and it serves as the office for the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board. It is open from Monday to Saturday, from 9 am through 4:30 pm.

The first president of Ghana, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, was once held captive here before he steered the country to independence. Tourists visit to have a feel and inform themselves about what the world-renowned leader endured during his imprisonment.

☂️ Join a tour to see Ussher Fort

🏨 Stay nearby Ussher Fort

A white castle with palm trees and grass in front under a partly cloudy sky
The Elmina Castle was the first structure built by Europeans in Ghana

Elmina Castle

St. George Castle is a tourist site located in the Central Region of Ghana. This castle is one of the well-known landmarks in Ghana, and it is popularly known as the Elmina Castle. It can be found along the coast when driving from Accra to the Central Region.

When the Europeans (specifically Portuguese) came to Ghana, it was the first European structure they built back in the year 1482 for trading in gold and other natural resources. The Portuguese took two years to build the castle, completing it in 1486.

While the castle was initially constructed for trading gold, it later became a central point in the slave trade in Ghana. Enslaved people were gathered here and subsequently sold to their owners.

When you decide to visit this place, you will witness the physical history of the slave trade in the country and the impact it had on the people during that time.

🏨 Stay nearby Elmina Castle

James Fort

James Fort was built in Accra when the British came to Ghana during the "Gold Coast" days. In 1673, the Royal African Company of England constructed the fort to aid them in the trade of both gold and enslaved people. It serves as a reminder of the country's colonial rule. The fort was later turned into a prison until 2008.

Today, James Fort is one of the most popular attractions in Ghana, attracting visitors who are eager to educate themselves on the nation's past. If you are a visitor to Ghana, James Fort is the place for you to explore the life of assumed criminals who were convicted in this facility.

🏨 Stay in close proximity to Fort James

A walkway with cannons and ocean water to its left and a white building to its right
The Cape Coast Castle was built by the Portuguese in 1555 to trade gold

Cape Coast Castle

Another top tourist destination in Ghana is another castle, Cape Coast Castle. The Portuguese constructed this Castle on top, just like the Elmina Castle, but this one was erected in 1555. The Castle was built to trade precious gold but was also later used for slavery.

During that time, Ghana was called the Gold Coast because there was gold everywhere in the country. This is what lured the Portuguese to come here and, later on, the British. The Cape Coast Castle is one of the sites to visit in the Central Region. You can go to the "Door of No Return," which is one of the features of the Castle with an interesting history.

It is believed that the colonial masters transported the enslaved people from the Castle to the ships through this door. No enslaved person has come back alive after undergoing this experience. Properly exploring this place will inform you about the impact of slavery on Ghanaians.

The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park & Mausoleum is a historic tourist site in Ghana
The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum commemorates Dr Kwame Nkrumah

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park & Mausoleum

Dr Kwame Nkrumah is remembered as one of the most outstanding African leaders in the world. He led Ghana to gain independence from its colonial masters (Britain) on the 6th of March, 1957.

The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum was dedicated in 1992 to Dr Kwame Nkrumah to commemorate his life and work after his death. Today, it is one of the most famous places in Ghana.

Located in Accra, the capital of Ghana, the mausoleum serves as the final resting place of Dr Kwame Nkrumah and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah. You can also find rare artefacts related to the independence of Ghana here.

Visiting the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and Memorial Park will enlighten you on the in-depth history of how Ghana gained independence. I highly recommend you visit!

☂️ Explore Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park & Mausoleum with a tour

Conclusion

Ghana is an African country with a lot of tourist sites to share with its visitors. This list of 19 beautiful places and tourist sites to visit in Ghana can help you make the most of a trip to the country. Since Ghana is divided into 16 regions, each area has its share of attractions. This list is a guide to help you explore a few of the most popular and beautiful Ghana attractions.

When coming to Ghana, it is essential to plan for more than 14 days because you cannot see most of the tourist sites within a short time frame. Every part of Ghana has its cultural differences, which is what makes Ghana a unique country. The people are friendly and willing to assist you in any way that seems fit.

If you also want to learn about the culture, the ideal time to schedule your visit is when a festival is approaching. There are several festivals in Ghana, with at least one festival happening every month.

When you have ample time to spare, witnessing any of these festivals will be one of the most memorable things you'll experience in your lifetime. Enjoy exploring Ghana!

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Written by Samuel Caesar

Caesar FORMER WRITER Samuel is from Accra, Ghana. He is a computer engineer and freelance writer. Writing is how he escapes from the real world and goes into his imagination.

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