A journey to Ghana means you can expect to experience a tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty.
From vibrant cities to serene landscapes, the tour sites in Ghana are perfect for travelers seeking a fusion of heritage and adventure.
Whether you’re drawn to ancient forts, bustling markets, or the lush greenery of national parks, Ghana’s tour sites promise an immersive experience.
In this blog post, I’ll provide you with 23 tour sites in different cities in Ghana to visit on your trip.
This blog post may contain affiliate links which means that if you book one of these activities using my link (which I know you will because you loved how helpful this blog post is *wink*I am going to receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting BCJ!
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Tour Sites in Accra
Looking to see as much as possible in Accra in one day? Book a full-day city tour of Accra here!
Accra Arts Centre
The Accra Arts Centre, located in the vibrant city of Accra, is a marketplace known for showcasing an array of traditional Ghanaian crafts, textiles, and artifacts. The Centre comprises market stalls run by local artisans and craftsmen who gather to display their creations.
From intricate beadwork and colorful kente cloth to hand-carved sculptures and vibrant paintings, the center offers an authentic encounter with local artists and artistic keeps. The beauty of the Arts Centre goes beyond the products, as many cultural performances are hosted within the Centre that reflect the creativity of the Ghanaian people.
The Arts Centre is where you’ll want to grab some last-minute souvenirs and gifts to take with you before returning home.
Independence Square
Standing as a symbol of the nation’s journey to freedom and independence, the Independence Square is one of the tour sites in Ghana that is a must-visit. This expansive public space commemorates Ghana’s liberation from colonial rule on March 6, 1957.
The square’s main feature is the Independence Arch, representing the triumph of Ghana’s struggle for self-determination.
The square is often where many national celebrations and significant events take place. Independence Square is a historic and patriotic site and one of the best photo opportunities in the country to remember your time in Ghana.
W.E.B. Du Bois Center
The W.E.B. Du Bois Centre pays tribute to the influential African-American scholar and civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois. This cultural and research center, named after DuBois, was established to honor Du Bois’s connection to Ghana and his commitment to Pan-Africanism.
The center is home to the mausoleum where Du Bois and his wife, Shirley Graham Du Bois, are buried, fostering a sense of reverence for their contributions to the African diaspora. The center is also primarily a museum displaying Du Bois’s personal belongings, sharing insight into his life and legacy.
With its serene surroundings and educational exhibits, the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre stands as a testament to the impact of Du Bois’s pursuits. It is a vital cultural landmark in Ghana.
Makola Market
Makola Market is Accra’s largest open-air market that radiates Ghana’s entrepreneurial spirit. This market has everything you can imagine available to purchase in one place. Spanning several blocks in Accra, Makola Market has colorful fabrics, spices, fresh produce, technology, and more waiting for you.
The market is not just a shopping hub but a cultural landmark with a great introduction to a glimpse of everyday life for merchants in Accra.
Navigating through the narrow alleys and engaging with merchants is one of the most authentic experiences you can have while in Ghana, and highly recommended.
Aburi Botanical Gardens
Nestled in the scenic hills of Aburi, the Aburi Botanical Gardens stands as a tranquil oasis, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. This expansive botanical garden showcases a rich collection of worldwide indigenous and exotic plant species.
The serene atmosphere and cool climate of Aburi make the garden a perfect escape from the city’s noise. Aburi Botanical Gardens is also known for being a recreational space, attracting people to host events, picnics, and other gatherings amidst the lush greenery.
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum
The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park is a significant historical site dedicated to Ghana’s first President and a key figure in the country’s struggle for independence, Kwame Nkrumah.
The park features a museum that chronicles Nkrumah’s life, achievements, and contributions to the Pan-African movement. It encompasses the mausoleum where Nkrumah’s remains rest, surrounded by gardens and reflective pools.
The grandeur of the mausoleum is symbolic of Nkrumah’s enduring legacy and his pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s destiny. The Memorial Park is one of the tour sites in Ghana that pay tribute to Nkrumah and is a place for reflection on Ghana’s journey to independence.
National Museum of Ghana
The National Museum of Ghana hosts the history of the country’s rich cultural heritage. The museum showcases diverse artifacts, exhibits, and archaeological findings that span the nation’s prehistoric, colonial, and post-independence eras.
Visitors can explore the extensive displays featuring traditional Ghanaian art, textiles, musical instruments, and ethnographic objects. With its commitment to preserving and presenting Ghana’s cultural legacy, the National Museum is an educational and enlightening site, inviting locals and international visitors to delve into the fascinating details of Ghana’s history and heritage.
Shai Hills Resource Reserve
The Shai Hills Resource Reserve, located in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, is a biodiverse conservation area encompassing rocky landscapes, savannah grasslands, and lush forests.
Established to protect the rich natural heritage of the region, the reserve spans approximately 51 square kilometers and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Shai Hills can be a great day trip and an opportunity to leave the city and explore the scenic trails. The reserve is inhabited by diverse wildlife, including antelopes, baboons, and numerous bird species.
Jamestown
Jamestown is the oldest district in Accra. Once a British colonial settlement, Jamestown has evolved into a dynamic community known for hosting festivals and events like the annual Chale Wote Street Arts Festival.
The area is lined with colonial-era architecture, including the iconic lighthouse that stands along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Jamestown has become a hub for contemporary art and cultural expression, with its alleys plastered with murals and graffiti, showcasing the talent and creativity of local artists.
The neighborhood’s notable landmarks include Jamestown Café and the Ussher Fort.
Tour Sites in Cape Coast
Cape Coast Castle
Cape Coast Castle, located about four hours from Accra, tells the story of the impact and role of the transatlantic slave trade and the profound effect it had on countless lives in Ghana.
Its walls and dungeons hold the painful stories of those who were held captive before enduring the harsh journey across the Atlantic.
The infamous “Door of No Return” at Cape Coast Castle symbolizes the heart-wrenching departure of enslaved individuals from their homeland.
Today, the castle serves as a memorial and museum where visitors worldwide come to learn about a significant period of history. The Cape Coast Castle is not only a reminder of the horrors of the past we should aim never to repeat but also a site for reflection, education, and remembrance of our ancestors.
Kakum National Park
Kakum National Park is arguably one of Ghana’s most popular outdoor tour sites. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, the park is renowned for its biodiversity and several activities.
The Park is known mainly for its canopy walkway, one of the longest and highest in the world. Suspended between towering trees, this treetop walk offers visitors a breathtaking aerial view of the forest canopy.
Beyond the canopy walk, Kakum National Park boasts a network of well-maintained trails that lead through the forest, where visitors can enjoy activities like birdwatching and camping.
Elmina Castle
Located in Elmina, the Elmina Castle was built before the Cape Coast Castle and shares the same sentiments of the impact of the transatlantic slave trade.
Constructed by the Portuguese in the 15th century and later expanded by the Dutch, the castle played a pivotal role in the brutal commerce of enslaved Africans.
“The informative tour (included in the entry fee) takes you to the dungeons, punishment cells, Door of No Return, and the turret room where the British imprisoned the Ashanti king, Prempeh I, for four years.” as Visit Ghana shares.
Tour Sites in the Western Region
Nzulezu
Nzulezu is a village built with stilts on a lake in the Western region of Ghana. Nzulezu is accessible by canoes.
Inhabited by the Nzema people, Nzulezu offers a captivating glimpse into their traditional lifestyles. Many have lived their entire lives on water and have maintained their cultural practices and fishing livelihoods for centuries.
Part of Ghana’s charm is its ability to give you various experiences as you find yourself in various regions and cities, and Nzulezu is one of those experiences.
I wrote a detailed blog post on what you need to know about visiting Nzulezu. While it is one of the most popular tour sites in Ghana to visit, remember that the village is home to many.
Fort Metal Cross
While not exactly in Takoradi and about an hour’s drive away, the Fort Metal Cross is still a notable tour site in Ghana worth including in this roundup.
Fort Metal Cross, located in Dixcove, Ghana, is a historical site that stands as a testament to the region’s complex past involving the slave trade. The fort was once used “became a central point for the slave trade. Incredible numbers of Africans were captured and held here before being sold to European slave traders.” according to Ghana Trvl.
Today, Fort Metal Cross is a tangible link to Ghana’s history, offering visitors a glimpse into the transatlantic slave trade and the European colonial legacy in the region.
Cape Three Points
Cape Three Points, situated at the southernmost tip of Ghana, is a location that holds both natural beauty and cultural importance.
The area is well known for its picturesque landscapes, including pristine beaches and lush greenery, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Cape Three Points was home to the first lighthouse in the country, constructed in 1875 by the British colonial authorities.
A climb up the famous lighthouse, and you’ll have breathtaking views of the surrounding waters. The nearby village is also said to have a variety of activities visitors can enjoy while visiting.
Tour Sites in Volta Region
Wli Waterfalls
Wli Waterfalls is a must-see destination when traveling in Ghana and is one many visitors typically make their way to fairly quickly.
The falls are a two-tiered cascade, with the lower falls accessible year-round and the upper falls requiring a scenic trek through the surrounding tropical rainforest, typically taking around 30-40 minutes.
The waterfalls plunge from a height of about 60 meters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle and a refreshing pool at the base where you can cool off.
Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary
The Monkey Sanctuary is home to a thriving population of Mona monkeys. It was established to protect these primates while allowing them to coexist with the nearby community of Tafi Atome.
When visiting the sanctuary, you’ll witness the monkeys in their natural habitat, swinging through the trees and exhibiting their playful behavior, which often includes them getting comfortable with you!
Guided tours offer an opportunity to observe these monkeys up close and learn more about the sanctuary’s effort to preserve them.
Nkyinkyim Museum
A fairly new structure in Ghana, the Nkyinkyim Museum is an outdoor African art museum in East Ada. The museum uses clay to curate pieces that pay homage to ancestors from the trans-Atlantic slave trade and convey powerful messages.
While visiting the museum, you will be taken on a tour led by a griot who explains the pieces of artwork in great detail. The entire museum celebrates the greatness of our ancestors and celebrates African culture.
Tour Sites in the Northern Region
Mole National Park
Mole National Park is Ghana’s largest wildlife reserve and is where Ghana’s most popular safari takes place.
The park covers over 4,800 square kilometers of diverse ecosystems, including savannahs, grasslands, and riverine forests. Mole National Park has an array of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and various species of monkeys.
You can choose to embark on a safari through a guided walking safari or from the comfort of a well-equipped safari vehicle.
With its scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife, Mole National Park stands as a conservation area, contributing significantly to preserving Ghana’s natural heritage.
Larabanga Mosque
The Larabanga Mosque is the oldest mosque in Ghana and one of the oldest mosques in West Africa. Believed to have been built in the 15th century, the mosque is a remarkable example of Sudanese architectural influence. It stands as a testament to the rich history of Islam in the region.
The mosque was constructed with mud and sticks, featuring intricate designs and patterns on its exterior. Its unique architecture and cultural significance have earned it the status of a national monument in Ghana.
Pikworo Slave Camp
One of the less-known tour sites in Ghana, the Pikworo Slave Camp opened in 1704 when the site was used as a transit center for enslaved people to be later sold at a nearby slave market.
Today, the camp is a site where you get to see how enslaved persons were kept while staying at the camp.
Tour Sites in Kumasi
Okomfo Anokye Sword Site
The Okomfo Anokye Sword Site is a historical and cultural site located in Kumasi, the capital city of the Ashanti Region in Ghana.
The site is associated with Okomfo Anokye, one of the two founders of the Ashanti Empire along with King Osei Tutu, in the late 17th century.
According to local legend, Okomfo Anokye drove a sword into the ground at the location, proclaiming that no one would be able to pull it out. The sword is said to symbolize the unity and permanence of the Ashanti Kingdom.
The Okomfo Anokye Sword has become a revered symbol of the Ashanti people and is considered a spiritual artifact.
Manhyia Palace Museum
The Manhyia Palace Museum is within the Manhyia Palace, the official residence of the Asantehene (the Ashanti king). The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom.
The museum displays a diverse collection of artifacts, regalia, and historical items associated with the Ashanti royalty and the kingdom’s history. From educational videos to the display of artifacts, visitors to the museum will leave understanding the Ashanti Empire’s origins, significant historical events, and traditions.
