Ghana, a vibrant West African nation, captivates with its rich cultural heritage, historic forts, and lush rainforests, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation. Located between Togo and Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Ghana is one of West Africa’s most culturally diverse and colorful destinations, and is famous for its warmth and hospitality. From the vibrant markets of Accra to the serene beaches of Cape Coast, tours offer a compelling blend of history, natural beauty, and Ghanaian hospitality. Let Palace Travel craft an unforgettable journey through this region’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, ensuring every detail of your vacation is seamlessly planned, leaving you free to embrace the adventure.
Map of Ghana's Regions
Exploring Ghana's Diverse Landscapes
Ghana’s landscapes range from coastal beaches to dense forests and savanna plains. For coastal exploration, tours combine the historical depth of Cape Coast Castle with peaceful stays at Atlantic eco-resorts. The beaches of Busua and Kokrobite offer surfing and sunbathing along the Atlantic coast, while Lake Bosomtwe, a sacred crater lake near Kumasi, provides tranquil kayaking, both featured in Ghana tour packages.
Must-Visit National Parks and Waterfalls
Kakum National Park, with its canopy walkway suspended above the rainforest, offers thrilling views and wildlife spotting, a highlight of any travel itinerary. Kakum National Park isn't far from Cape Coast and wow that canopy walkway through the rainforest is something else built back in 1994 by a team of Canadians and Ghanaians it's actually featured in the Thrills in Ghana tour. The Volta Region’s Wli Waterfalls, West Africa’s tallest, provide serene hiking and swimming opportunities, making it a top place to visit. Mountain trails in the Volta Region really shine now, with clear visibility from Mount Gemi and pleasant hiking weather for reaching Wli Waterfalls.
Kakum National Park Canopy Walkway
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Mole National Park was the first (and is still the largest) protected area in the country, located in northern Ghana. Its vast landscape is home to over 90 species of mammals, 334 species of bird and 120 species of butterfly. Love wildlife? Mole National Park's your spot grab a flight to Tamale or take the road you'll see elephants antelopes all sorts.
Immersing in Ghanaian Culture and History
Ghana’s heritage blends Akan, Ewe, and colonial influences, reflected in its festivals, music, and historic sites. Our adventure tour will see you find out more about the country’s history.
Historical Sites
The Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tells the sobering story of the transatlantic slave trade, enriching a travel itinerary. Elmina Castle and Cape Coast Castle form part of the well-known Gold Coast Castles. These 15th- and 17th-century structures were built by European colonisers during the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade; today, they operate as historical museums, serving as important reminders of Ghana’s long, significant past.
Accra: The Heart of Ghana
Simply put, there’s no missing Accra - it’s one of the best places to visit on a holiday. Accra is well-known as the art capital of the country, with colourful creativity in abundance. Accra’s Makola Market buzzes with kente cloth and street food vendors, a must-see on any trip. Highlights include the historic Jamestown neighborhood; fountain- and statue-filled Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, dedicated to the memory of Ghana’s first president; a visit to a woodworking shop specializing in “fantasy coffins” - unique handcrafted coffins that are collected and displayed in museums worldwide; and the W.E.B. Du Bois Center for Pan African Culture, where the American sociologist spent his last years.
Kumasi: The Ashanti Kingdom
Take in Kumasi, a city in southern Ghana, which is the spiritual capital of the old Ashanti Kingdom and where the country’s finest Kente cloth is produced. This morning we meet the Akan people, known for their rich culture heritage and skilled craftmanship. En route to Kumasi today, we visit the Assin Manso Slave River Site, once a slave market and now a memorial site. Then we continue on to Kumasi, Ghana’s second largest city, historical and spiritual capital of the powerful Ashanti Empire (1670-1957), and modern home of the Asante people. We continue our discovery of the “Garden City of West Africa” this afternoon at the Manhyia Palace Museum, housing a collection of gold jewelry worn by the Ashanti court.
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The Manhyia Palace Museum
Ghana's iconic landmarks include Prempeh II Jubilee Museum and Okomfo Anokye Sword site in Kumasi. Kejetia Market, in Kumasi, is one of the largest markets in West Africa.
Festivals
Festivals in Ghana celebrate its cultural vibrancy. The Homowo Festival in August, held by the Ga people in Accra, features drumming, dancing, and yam feasts, a lively event. The Akwasidae Festival in Kumasi, every six weeks, honors Asante ancestors with royal processions, perfect for travelers looking to explore Ghana’s traditions. The Akwasidae Festival is celebrated on certain days of each year, in accordance with the Ashanti calendar. You’ll witness the Ashanti King adorned in vivid cloth and ornate historic jewellery as he sits beneath a colourful umbrella, surrounded by Ashanti elders and advisors. The ceremony welcomes symbols of power, sword and knife bearers, carriers of beautiful ostrich feathers, and you’ll be transfixed by the drummers and trumpeters, storytellers and dancers.
Ghana Travel Guide: 16 BEST Things To Do In Ghana
Adventure and Activities
Adventure thrives, from hiking Mount Afadja to surfing in Busua, top activities for thrill-seekers. Active young travelers join our adventure tours that really earn the name - you'll tackle the challenging 2-hour climb up Mount Afadja, Ghana's highest peak, rewarding you with incredible valley views. Canoeing on the Volta River or birdwatching in Ankasa Forest adds excitement, featured in many tours.
Ghana travel highlights extend beyond bustling cities and wondrous wildlife. Stroll along the golden-sand beaches overlooking the Gulf of Guinea, an inlet of water that stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean. On our Best of Ghana tour, you can also enjoy an evening river cruise along the Volta River in northeastern Ghana, where the tropical rainforest meets the waters.
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Practical Information for Your Trip
Transportation
Ghana’s tro-tros (minibuses), taxis, and domestic flights connect cities and rural areas, ideal for a travel itinerary. You'll see these colorful minibuses called "tro tros" everywhere they're super affordable and perfect for short trips around cities running pretty much all day. If you're heading between regions the intercity buses are really comfortable and they've got overnight options too. Need to save time? Domestic flights connect the major cities like Accra to Tamale takes just an hour and that's perfect if you're joining something like the 7-Day Northern Ghana Tour.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is the dry season (November-March) for pleasant weather (25-30°C), perfect for safaris and beach visits, though the wet season (April-October) brings lush greenery. The best time to visit is between October to April. This marks Ghana’s dry season, when the humidity levels are lower, making for a more comfortable experience. The cooler weather makes it perfect for walking Kakum National Park's rainforest canopy and exploring the Ashanti craft villages.
Flights and Accommodation
Direct flights from North American cities like New York or Washington, D.C., to Accra’s Kotoka International Airport take 10-12 hours, ensuring access to travel. Ghana's heritage unfolds at approx. $310 per day, featuring the Aburi Botanical Gardens, Cape Coast Castle, and Tetteh Quarshie's original cocoa farm.
Tour Options
Small group tours (6-12 people) offer guided cultural experiences, while car rentals provide flexibility for remote sites like Mole. At Ashanti, we specialise in creating fully customised tours designed around your exact interests. Whether you are a researcher, school or university group, solo traveler, couple, family, friends, or a travel agent arranging a private trip, our experienced team will design the perfect itinerary for you. From cultural and historical excursions to research trips, voluntary work, or wildlife-focused tours, we adapt every journey to your goals. We can even include personal locations of interest to make your trip unique.
| Tour Type | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Cultural Immersion | 7-12 days | Artisan workshops, community experiences, Kente weaving |
| Adventure | 6-12 days | Mole National Park, Lake Volta, Accra exploration |
| Heritage | 3-7 days | Cape Coast Castle, Kakum National Park, Aburi Botanical Gardens |
