Popular Destinations in Ghana
Accra
The capital and most populous city in Ghana, Accra expands along the
Ghanaian Atlantic coast and extends north. In past, this city had served as
a capital of the British Gold Coast. Accra has now transformed into a
modern metropolis with architecture reflecting city's rich history. This
contrast of rich history and modernity is evident in the 19th-century
architecture buildings and modern skyscrapers. Major landmarks in Accra are
Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Osu Castle, Flagstaff House, Elmina Castle,
Independence Arch, Ussher Fort, James Town Lighthouse, and Fort James. The
city is also lined with several museums, cultural institutions, parks, and
performing art venues such as Artists Alliance Gallery, Centre for National
Culture, Dubois Centre for Panafrican Culture, Efua Sutherland Children's
Park, Achimota Forest Park, and National Theater. Accra is a vibrant and
safe city boasting lovely beaches, happening nightlife, and colourful
markets. Visitors can head over to the Makola Market, an apt place to get
in touch with Ghanaian culture and enjoy shopping like a local. Beach
lovers can make their way to the Labadi and Kokobrite beaches, both of
which are among the most famous beaches in Accra.
Cape Coast
Capital of the Central Region, Cape Coast is located in southern Ghana. The
city is known for its role in the transatlantic slave trade and used to be
the largest slave trading centre in Western Africa. Cape Coast is arguably
among the most culturally and historically significant places in the
African continent. The fortified buildings of the British, Portuguese,
Swedish, Dutch and Danish colonial engagements along the coast are UNESCO
World Heritage Sites. The 17th century Swedish Cape Coast Castle
is a large whitewashed fort overlooking the Gulf of Guinea. The Fort was
later used by the British as a holding prison for slaves, and visitors will
find exhibits on slave trade and pre-colonial local history inside the
Castle Museum. Nearby, Fort William built by the British as a lookout post
operated as a lighthouse. To the west, in the town of Elmina, the 15th century Portuguese St. George’s Castle was used to trade
ivory, gold, and eventually slaves. The castle offers sweeping views of the
harbor and coastline. Nature lovers can explore, north of Cape Coast, and
Kakum National Park, a rainforest home to primates, butterflies, birds, and
elephants.
Kumasi
Located in southern Ghana, Kumasi is the capital of the Ashanti Region and
the country’s second largest city after Accra. The city is known as the hub
for Ashanti culture. The Manhyia Palace Museum is housed in the former
palace of the Ashanti king. Royal objects, including artwork and furniture,
are displayed in the palace today. Nearby, the 19th century
Kumasi Fort and Military Museum, displays artefacts such as medals,
photographs, and weapons from World War II and the British-Ashanti Wars. In
the heart of Kumasi is the open-air Kejetia Market, where visitors can find
everything from Ashanti sandals to glass beads. Other major landmarks in
Kumasi are Kumasi Zoo, Armed Forces Museum, and Wesley Methodist Cathedral.