Ghana: Kakum National Park

Kakum National Park, located in the Central Region of Ghana, is a renowned biodiversity hotspot and one of the country’s most popular eco-tourism destinations. Established in 1992, the park spans over 375 square kilometres of tropical rainforest and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered. The park is also known for its rich birdlife, with over 250 recorded species, as well as mammals such as forest elephants, bongo antelopes, and the elusive Diana monkey.

In addition to its ecological significance, Kakum National Park plays a vital role in community development and environmental education. The park is managed with a focus on sustainable tourism, engaging local communities in conservation efforts and providing them with economic opportunities. Guided tours and educational programs help raise awareness about the importance of preserving Ghana’s natural heritage.

One of the attractions of the park is a canopy walkway that is 30m above the ground and is about 300 long. I had seen pictures online and knew it would not be one I would enjoy. I have no problems with the height, for me it is the swinging motion – I have been on canopy walkways much higher than this without a problem, the issue I knew would be the type of suspension they used – a single cable. So, instead, I had a separate guide take me through the forest on a trail – firmly on terra firma.

My nature walk was great and involved a tricky trail which was steep in places and there were tree roots and rocks to negotiate. It was also very hot and sticky inside the rainforest. So, it was a great workout. We would stop from time to time and my guide would tell me more about a certain tree or plant along the trail. It was fascinating. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any wildlife or many birds – there are elephants and monkeys here and also so interesting nocturnal beasts, such as pangolins (the guide had a video of one on his phone), bush babies and porcupines. It was not an issue for me as I was not expecting to see much at this time of day. The best time for seeing birds and critters is very early in the morning, nearer to dawn.

After an hour of walking, we arrived at the end of the canopy walk, so I sat and waited for Karen to appear. She was a bit behind the rest as she had made some new friends along the way and was talking to them. There was a group of people from the United States, who were more elderly, and one in particular was so proud of herself for making part of the canopy walk.

Planning your visit

Getting There

Location: Kakum National Park is located in the Central Region of Ghana, about 33 kilometers (20 miles) from Cape Coast.
Transportation:
- From Accra: It’s about a 3-hour drive (170 km). You can take a private car, hire a taxi, or use a public bus (trotro) heading towards Cape Coast.
- From Cape Coast: Take a taxi or a trotro. The journey takes about 40 minutes.

Entrance Fees

Canopy Walk: A major highlight, with separate fees for adults and children.
Guided Tours: Opt for a naturalist guide to learn about the park’s unique flora and fauna.

The best time to visit

Dry Season (November to March)

Why visit?
- This is the peak tourist season due to minimal rainfall, making the canopy walk and hiking trails more accessible and less slippery.
- Clearer skies improve visibility for wildlife spotting, especially birds and monkeys.
- Comfortable temperatures during this period range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).
- The lack of rain makes it easier to plan day trips and outdoor activities.

Wet Season (April to October)

Why visit?
- The park is lush and vibrant, with blooming flora and more active wildlife.
- Birdwatching enthusiasts might find this season more rewarding, as some species are more visible.
- Visitor numbers are lower, providing a quieter and more immersive experience.
Challenges:
- Trails and canopy walkways may be slippery, requiring extra caution.
- Higher chances of rain can disrupt activities.

Best Times of Day

- Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for wildlife observation and to avoid the midday heat.
- Guided tours often begin early, enhancing the chance of spotting animals before they retreat into the forest.

Where to stay in Elmina

Golden Hill Parker Hotel

The Golden Hill Parker Hotel, established in 2014, is a 4-star hillside retreat located on the highest peak of Bantuma village hills in Elmina, Ghana. The hotel offers 18 stylish accommodations, including Deluxe and Superior rooms, providing guests with a 360° view of Elmina’s historic Castle, Forts, and the surrounding area.

Amenities at the hotel include fine dining, a large swimming pool, a restaurant, and beautiful grounds. Guests can enjoy free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking during their stay