The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, located in Accra, Ghana, is a historical site dedicated to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana's first President and a key figure in the country's independence movement, featuring his mausoleum, statues, and exhibits on his legacy.
Ghana: Accra – Fantasy coffin makers
It was our final day in Ghana, and we were heading to the capital city, Accra.
One of the things that I hoped we could do was visit one of the fantasy coffin makers in Accra. I had seen these coffin makers on a couple of TV shows, and I was fascinated but their work and the story behind why the locals choose to have these coffins made.
Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, is a city filled with history, culture, and unique artistic expressions. Among its many hidden gems, one of the most intriguing is the workshops of fantasy coffin makers —craftsmen who transform ordinary coffins into extraordinary works of art that celebrate the lives and aspirations of the deceased.
Ghanaian fantasy coffins, also known as abebuu adekai (meaning “proverb boxes” in the local Ga language), are custom-made caskets designed to reflect the personality, profession, or passions of the deceased. Beyond their artistic value, these fantasy coffins highlight the importance of celebrating life and individuality. They challenge the conventional view of death as merely an end, instead embracing it as a continuation of one’s legacy. The tradition reflects the Ghanaian belief in the afterlife, where the deceased continue their journey in a realm that honours their earthly existence.
We were not visiting a workshop in Accra itself but in a village along the road from Cape Coast to Accra.
The workshop was very basic, and it was hard to believe anything intricate could be made here. We were introduced to the master craftsmen who were working on a new commission. As we watched Ben explained that fantasy coffin-making is deeply rooted in Ga tradition, where funerals are not just sombre occasions but grand celebrations of life. The deceased’s family commissions a coffin that best represents their loved one’s profession or interests. A fisherman might be laid to rest in a fish-shaped coffin, while a pilot’s final journey could be in an intricately carved aeroplane. There were a couple of coffins that were still being worked on that had yet to be painted.
From the workshop, we walked across to the showroom. This again was not a flashy affair but was a chance for the craftsmen to show their skills off. The room was full of coffins, including one in the shape of a mobile phone, another was a crab and there was a book-shaped coffin. Some of these were full-size, others were scaled versions or for very small people! We spent a few minutes looking around and taking photos, before saying our goodbyes and continuing our journey to Accra.
We left the workshop with a genuine appreciation for this remarkable art form and the cultural depth it represents. The fantasy coffin makers of Accra are not just carpenters; they are storytellers, historians, and guardians of tradition. Their work ensures that every farewell is as unique as the life it commemorates, turning grief into a celebration of identity and legacy.
The best time to visitÂ
The best time to visit Accra, Ghana, is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is warm but less humid, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach outings.
Seasonal Breakdown:
November to April (Best Time)
- Dry weather, less humidity
- Average temperatures: 24°C – 32°C (75°F – 90°F)
- Ideal for visiting beaches, exploring markets, and attending cultural festivals
May to October (Rainy Season)
- Heavy rains, high humidity
- Some roads may become muddy and difficult to navigate
- However, it’s a good time for budget travelers as hotel prices may be lower
Best Months for Events & Festivals:
- December – Festive season, with major events like Afrochella (now Afrofuture) and Detty December parties
- March – Ghana Independence Day (March 6th) celebrations
- August – Chale Wote Street Art Festival in Jamestown
For the best experience, aim for December to February, when the weather is at its most pleasant, and Accra is full of energy with festivals and events.
Where to stay in Accra
La Villa Boutique Hotel
La Villa Boutique Hotel is a 3-star establishment located in the Osu district of Accra, Ghana. The hotel offers 30 comfortable rooms, each equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Some rooms also feature private balconies with city views.
Guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a sun terrace, and a fitness center. The on-site Soprano Restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, including African, American, Chinese, British, Italian, and European dishes. The hotel also offers services such as airport shuttles, car rentals, and concierge assistance.
More to Explore
