Ghana is a beautiful country located in West Africa, with a rich history and culture. Formerly known as the Gold Coast, Ghana gained independence from British colonial rule in 1957, making it the first sub-Saharan African country to do so. Since then, Ghana has made significant strides in various sectors, including tourism. In 2019, the government launched the “Year of Return” initiative, which was a call to people of African descent to come back to Ghana and explore their roots. The initiative was a massive success, with many people visiting the country to experience its rich history, culture, and hospitality. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 places to visit in Ghana.
- Cape Coast Castle – This historic castle was used as a slave dungeon during the transatlantic slave trade. It has since been turned into a museum and serves as a reminder of Ghana’s painful past. A visit to Cape Coast Castle is a must for anyone interested in history and wants to pay their respects to the millions of enslaved Africans.
- Kakum National Park – This beautiful national park is home to a canopy walkway that’s suspended 30 meters above the forest floor. A walk across the canopy walkway is an exhilarating experience that offers a stunning view of the surrounding forest.
- Mole National Park – Located in northern Ghana, Mole National Park is home to various species of wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, baboons, and more. Visitors can take a safari tour of the park and experience its natural beauty.
- Labadi Beach – Labadi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ghana. It’s a great place to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the beautiful coastline. There are also various restaurants and bars nearby where visitors can grab a bite to eat and a cold drink.
- Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park – This beautiful park is dedicated to Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah. The park features a museum, a mausoleum, and various monuments, all of which pay tribute to Nkrumah and his contributions to Ghana.
- Lake Bosumtwi – This beautiful crater lake is believed to have been formed by a meteorite strike over a million years ago. Visitors can swim, fish, and take boat rides on the lake while enjoying its natural beauty.
- Aburi Botanical Gardens – These beautiful botanical gardens are located on the Akwapim Hills and offer a stunning view of the surrounding area. The gardens feature various plant species, including some rare ones that are only found in Ghana.
- Elmina Castle – Elmina Castle was also used as a slave dungeon during the transatlantic slave trade. It’s another historic site that’s been turned into a museum and serves as a reminder of Ghana’s painful past.
- Wli Waterfalls – Located in the Volta Region, Wli Waterfalls is the highest waterfall in Ghana. Visitors can take a hike to the waterfall and enjoy its natural beauty while taking a dip in the cool water.
- Osu Castle – This historic castle was used as a presidential palace during Ghana’s colonial period. It’s now been turned into a museum and serves as a reminder of Ghana’s struggle for independence.
In conclusion, Ghana is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. The “Year of Return” initiative has brought many tourists to the country, and it’s not hard to see why. With its beautiful beaches, national parks, historic sites, and natural beauty, Ghana is definitely a destination worth visiting.
