The Top 7 National Parks in Ghana: The hidden Wilderness
The beautiful country of Ghana has many national parks to be explored. You can visit these parks and enjoy a variety of activities, such as camping, fishing, trekking, bird watching and more. For the last 80 years, there were two types of African National Parks: those that were created in colonial times to protect endangered species and those that were established after independence to identify Ghana’s natural resources.
From the deep jungle of Kakum to the sandy beaches of Cape Coast, the country’s natural wonders are legendary. Luckily, these are protected by some wonderful national parks and reserves. Here we take a look at Ghana’s Top 7 National Parks.
Kakum National Park
Kakum National Park, located near the coastal area of the central region was established in 1931 as a reserve and was gazette as a national park in 1992 and covers an area of 375 square kilometres. Kakum National Park, near the coastal area of Ghana, is a prime destination for eco-tourists. Home to more than 640 unique butterfly species, mammals, and 266 bird species, it is easy to see why Kakum is so beloved. The park features rainforest trails that traverse 30 bridges suspended up to 98 feet above the forest floor and offer picturesque views of the lush canopy area.
A special highlight known as the ‘canopy walkway’ takes its travellers through a challenging treetop trail that ends at an incredible viewing platform overlooking the bordered rainforest canopy. The canopy walk is 350 meters in length and connects seven tree tops which provide access to the forest. The canopy walk is suspended 30 meters above the ground. The people in the Assin community celebrate the Fetu Afahye on the first Saturday in September. In addition to exploring spectacular nature scenes, visitors can take part in cultural activities with many nearby tribal settlements offering a thrilling insight into village life in Ghana. With so much wildlife and culture in one place, Kakum National park is truly a place to visit. Tourists can lodge at Lemon Beach Resort, Coconut Grove Hotel, ko-sa Beach Resort
READ ALSO, KAKUM NATIONAL PARK
Mole National Park
Mole National Park is one of the oldest parks in Ghana, located in the Savanna land and spanning 4,840 kilometres square. It is home to a variety of African wildlife including elephants, antelope, buffalo, warthogs, hippopotamuses, and various birds. home to some 742 vascular plant species, 334 bird species,33 reptiles,9 amphibians species and over 90 mammal species. The park has the most elephant population in Ghana. It was established in the year 1958 as a wildlife refuge Mole National Park is known for its captivating beauty as it provides stunning views of its grassy plains while its vast woodland areas are apart from any other natural reserve.
Visitors can participate in various activities such as guided bush walks with local guides and game drives across the park’s rolling terrain for insight into the local flora and fauna. There are several lodges that provide accommodations for those planning an extended visit as well as plenty of campsites along the main road keeping visitors close to all the action. Mole National Park exudes an unmistakable aura that attracts visitors from around the world! The Levi and mole rivers flow through the park. The park is an important area of study for scientists because of the removal of the human population from the park. Tourists can lodge at the Mole Motel or Zaina Lodge.
Bui National Park
The park was established in 1971 and covers an area of 1821 kilometre square. Bui National Park is divided by the black volva river, the section of the west river forms part of the Bono region and to the east forms part of the savannah region of Ghana. The park borders Ivory Coast. The park is known for its large Hippopotamus population, endangered black and white colobus monkey, and variety of antelopes. Part of the park also serves as a water reserve for the Bui Dam. Tourists can lodge at The Wooden Tower Lodge, Yakam Hotel.
READ ALSO, THE TOP 6 CANOPY WALKS IN GHANA.
Kyabobo National Park
Kyabobo National Park is located in the Nkwanta Atwode traditional area in the Oti Region of Ghana. The park is a 360 square kilometre park which borders Togo. It was established in 1993. The second highest mountain n Ghana is located in this national park, Mount Dzebobo. It contains both forest and savannah species of plants and animals. Kyabobo National Park has at least 235 birds, 500 species of butterflies, warthog, reedbuck, bongo lion and other wildlife. Tourists can lodge at Getaway Hotel, Hotel Amen.
READ ALSO, THE TOP 6 HIGHEST MOUNTAINS IN GHANA.
Digya National Park
The park was created in 1900 and later gazette as a National Park in 1971. The Digya National Park covers an area of 3,743 square kilometres and is the second-largest National Park in Ghana. The Digya Park is Ghana’s oldest wildlife park, having been established by British Colonial officials in Gold Coast. Similar to the Bui National Park, Digya Park is located between a forest and a savannah in the Bono East Region. The park is home to the second-largest elephant population in Ghana and the only wildlife territory in Ghana to border Lake Volta . Digya National Park has something for everyone who visits: tranquil boat rides through spectacular wildlife-filled wetlands; hiking trails that showcase the incredible plant life; or simply taking some time to relax. Tourists can lodge at Royal Park Hotel, Bosomtwe Paradise Resort.
Nini Suhien National Park
The park was established in 1976 and covers 160 square kilometres of land. The park is part of the Ankasa Conservation area which covers 500 square kilometres. The park is located in the Western Region of Ghana near the border with Ivory Coast. The Ankasa, Nini and Suhien rivers all pass through the park. The conservation area is the only wildlife-protected area in Ghana located in the wet evergreen tropical high rainforest belt. Multiple trails are available for visitors to wander through the woodland area or explore more rugged terrain, while meadows provide lush spots to take in the beauty. There’s something for everyone here – whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a challenging hike, this park is sure to leave you with many pleasant memories. Tourists can lodge at the Ankasa Reserve Lodge, Karela Beach Resort, Gulf of Guinea Guesthouse or Maaha Beach Resort.
Bia National Park
Bia National Park
The Bia National Park is located in the Bia district in the Western Region. It was created in 1935 but became a National Park in 1974 and was named after the Bia River. In the year 1985, the park was named a biosphere reserve and a UNESCO heritage site. Located in the south of Ghana, near the border with Côte d’Ivoire, The Bia National Park is a stunningly beautiful and vulnerable wilderness full of diverse wildlife species. The park contains some incredible landscapes and has been classified as an important bird area due to its wide variety of resident birds. It also boasts being home to many mammal species, including duikers (small antelopes), civets, monkeys and the African wild cat.
With all this teeming wildlife, it makes for an excellent destination for those looking to get away from it all and appreciates nature in its purest form. Plus, visitors can take part in some incredible activities like game drives, birdwatching and hiking – a truly spectacular experience. Bia National Park covers 563 square kilometres of land. The park has about 62 species of mammals, over 189 bird species, and 10 primate species. The park is the only known home of the newly discovered species of lizard. Tourists can lodge at the Guest house at Bia National Park.
These parks cover a variety of landscapes and contain an incredible variety of habitats. Each National park in Ghana has unique features and attractions. Ghana has some of the most spectacular scenery in Africa. The most visited National Parks in Ghana are located along the coastline and offer unique opportunities to view the diversity of Ghanaian wildlife. Although several parks have facilities for visitors, visitors should be aware that they may have to endure very long drives to reach them.
Which of the above-mentioned parks have you visited? Share your experiences in the comment section.