The 9 best things to do in Ghana
Ghana is a land of vibrant culture, golden beaches, and rich history waiting to be explored. From the colorful markets of Accra to the trails of Kakum National Park, this West African country offers adventure at every turn. Savor jollof rice in Accra, dance to highlife rhythms, or unwind in the serene Volta Region. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Ghana.
Visit Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
A visit to Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park is a journey into Ghana’s revolutionary past. This serene park in the centre of Accra honors the country’s first president and a key architect of African independence. Nkrumah was the first leader to successfully overthrow colonial rule in sub-Saharan Africa, setting a precedent for the rest of the continent.
Recently renovated, the park blends sleek modern design with lush gardens and reflecting pools, creating a tranquil space steeped in history. At its center, Nkrumah’s mausoleum—a striking marble structure—stands as a symbol of his enduring legacy. Inside, exhibits showcase rare photographs, personal artifacts, and impactful speeches that shaped Ghana’s future. Outside, a bronze statue of Nkrumah strides forward, embodying the spirit of progress. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, this landmark offers an insightful look into Ghana’s fight for freedom, making it an essential stop in Accra.
Check out the tribal arts
Ghana’s wood carvings and masks are more than souvenirs—they are vibrant expressions of Ashanti, Ewe, and Akan traditions. Intricately crafted from mahogany, ebony, and sese wood, these pieces often depict ancestral spirits, proverbs, and local folklore.
For authentic finds, head to Accra’s Arts Centre, where artisans display handcrafted stools, fertility dolls, and striking tribal masks. The Makola Market also offers unique selections, though bargaining is key. To witness the craft firsthand, visit Aburi, a hillside town where carvers shape raw wood into exquisite works of art. In Kumasi, the heart of the Ashanti kingdom, master carvers create royal stools rich in symbolism. Whether collecting or simply admiring, Ghanaian woodwork is a journey into the country’s cultural heritage.
Tour Cape Coast Castle
Cape Coast Castle stands as a haunting yet essential stop on any journey through Ghana. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic, this whitewashed fortress was once a key hub of the transatlantic slave trade. Today, it offers a sobering but powerful look into history. Guided tours take visitors through dimly lit dungeons where thousands of enslaved Africans were held before being shipped across the ocean.
The infamous ‘Door of No Return’ serves as a stark reminder of the past, while the panoramic views from the castle’s ramparts provide a striking contrast—azure waves stretching out to the horrizon. A visit here is both deeply moving and historically enriching, offering an opportunity to reflect on resilience and remember those who passed through its walls.
Visit Mole National Park
Located in Ghana’s northern savanna, Mole National Park is a good choice for those interested in wildlife. Spanning over 4,900 square kilometers, it’s the country’s largest game reserve. Here, elephants move freely, often ambling past the Mole Motel’s infinity pool, where visitors sip drinks while watching the sun set behind the acacia trees.
Safari drives and guided walking tours offer a chance to see antelope, warthogs, baboons, and over 300 bird species, from colorful kingfishers to the rare white-backed vulture. The park’s quiet setting means fewer crowds and a more laid-back experience in Ghana’s natural surroundings. Stay overnight to catch elephants bathing at dawn or take a night safari under the open sky.
Get into the music scene
Ghana’s music scene is a rich blend of highlife, hiplife, Afrobeats, and traditional drumming. The country’s rhythms are captivating, blending indigenous beats with jazz, funk, and global influences. From the lively streets of Accra to the shores of Cape Coast, music is pulse of the nation.
Accra’s +233 Jazz Bar & Grill is a must-visit for live highlife performances, while Republic Bar pulses with contemporary fusion sounds. For a deeper cultural experience, head to Cape Coast or Kumasi, where drumming is more than just music—it’s storytelling, history, and ritual. The mesmerizing rhythms of the kpanlogo and talking drums come alive at local festivals like Homowo in Accra or Panafest in Cape Coast. In the northern regions, the rapid beats of the djembe drum set the pace for energetic dances.
Visit Kakum National Park
Located in Ghana’s Central Region, Kakum National Park is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s main highlight is its canopy walkway, a series of suspended bridges strung 130 feet above the rainforest floor. As you step onto the swaying planks, the sounds of tropical birds and rustling leaves surround you, offering a perspective few places in West Africa can match.
The park harbors diverse wildlife, from playful Mona monkeys to the elusive forest elephant. For those looking to explore further, guided treks reveal medicinal plants and centuries-old trees, while an overnight stay at the park’s treehouse immerses you in the nighttime sounds of the jungle. Just a few hours from Accra, Kakum is an unmissable stop for any Ghana itinerary.
Lounge on a beach
Ghana’s coastline stretches for over 300 miles, featuring golden beaches, swaying palm trees, and the rhythmic surge of the Atlantic. From bustling city beaches to secluded hideaways, the country’s shores offer something for every kind of traveler.
Local fishermen cast their nets at dawn, while by midday, beachgoers sip on fresh coconuts under the shelter of palm trees. The warm waters attract both swimmers and surfers, with Cape Three Points and Busua Beach emerging as favorite spots.
For a lively scene, head to Labadi Beach in Accra, where drumming, dancing, and street food stalls create a cool atmosphere. Unwind at Anomabo Beach Resort, known for its tranquil setting and fresh seafood. Adventurous travelers can explore Ada Foah’s estuary, where the Volta River meets the ocean in a stunning natural setting.
Visit the W.E.B. DuBois Center
In the center of Accra, the W.E.B. DuBois Center stands as a tribute to one of the greatest intellectuals of the 20th century. W.E.B. DuBois was a pioneering African American scholar, civil rights activist, and Pan-Africanist whose work shaped discussions on race and equality in the 20th century. A co-founder of the NAACP, he was the first Black American to earn a PhD from Harvard and spent his life advocating for African liberation, intellectualism, and social justice.
This serene complex, where DuBois spent his final years, offers a glimpse into his life’s work—his personal library, handwritten notes, and a striking mausoleum that holds his remains. The museum’s exhibits trace his tireless fight for Pan-Africanism and civil rights, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Stroll through the peaceful courtyard, where a flame of remembrance burns, or browse the small bookshop for rare African literature. Beyond its historical significance, the center is a meeting place for scholars and artists, ensuring DuBois’ legacy continues to inspire.
Browse the markets of Accra
No visit to Ghana is complete without visiting the dynamic markets of Accra. Makola Market, the city’s bustling core, is a maze of stalls brimming with everything from kente cloth to fresh mangoes. The air is thick with the scent of spices, the shouts of vendors, and the rhythmic movement of traders balancing baskets on their heads.
For a more curated shopping experience, head to the Arts Centre, where artisans craft intricate wood carvings, beaded jewelry, and woven baskets. Osu Night Market, on the other hand, transforms after dark, with vendors serving up smoky tilapia and spiced kelewele (fried plantains) straight from the grill. The markets of Accra are more than places to shop; they’re cultural hubs where the city’s energy is unmistakable
