In and Around Accra
Our Ghana placements are located in rural and urban areas in and around Accra. We recommend that you wait until you are in Ghana to arrange any trips and tours as the local staff can provide you with great recommendations once you are there. However, we have listed some great options below that previous volunteers have enjoyed while participating on the IVHQ Ghana Program.
Kokrobite
Just a twenty minute tro-tro ride west of Accra, take a trip to the lively fishing village of Kokrobite and find out what makes Big Milly’s Backyard (Kokrobite backpackers accommodation) such a popular weekend retreat for volunteers. Relax in this waterfront paradise during the day, and get amongst the live bands and stunning cultural displays at night. Though geographically close, this coastal town is far removed from the busy city of Accra, making it a perfect destination for volunteers wishing to spend a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle.
Cape Coast and Elmina
Travel by bus just a few hours west of Accra to explore the castles at Cape Coast and Elmina and discover the history of slavery in Ghana. A must-see in this historical city is the Elmina Slave Castle, which was the first trading post built South of the Sahara. Afterwards, volunteers can relax on the beautiful beach underneath the palm trees, or perhaps, if it is the right season, go to see a soccer match in the Cape Coast Stadium. Keep in mind, you’re not likely to witness soccer of European standards, but you will witness unsurpassed enthusiasm from the local fans.
Further Afield
Kakum National Park
While you’re in the area, journey just 30km north of Cape Coast through to the tropical rainforest of Kakum National Park, home to 300 species of bird, 600 species of butterfly and (if you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of them) endangered forest elephants and Colobus monkeys. Be sure to make your way across the Canopy Walkway - suspended 98ft over the forest floor, this walk is not for those who get shaky around heights!
Wli Waterfalls
Capture the magic of the cascading Wli Waterfalls - the highest waterfalls in West Africa. Surrounded by beautiful native forest and split into upper and lower levels, these falls are a sight to behold. If you’re in a rush, you can see the bottom falls from the roadside - stop for a picnic lunch and a photo before heading on for more travel. Alternatively, you can take an adventurous hike through the forest to the top falls. The Wli township has a tourist office where you can get a guide to take you to the top, along with refreshments an souvenirs. There are pools at both levels of the falls where you can take a refreshing dip - perfect on a hot day!
Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary
En route to the Wli Waterfalls from Accra, stop at the Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary, home to many Mona monkeys who are cared for and protected by local rangers. Entice the monkeys from the trees with bananas and watch them eat straight from your hands! Take a day trip, or if you prefer, stay overnight. The sanctuary offers accommodation, meals and cultural shows which are put on by the local villagers.
Kumasi
If you can work a 250km trip from Accra into your weekend, Kumasi has plenty on offer! From the largest markets in West Africa, to the largest natural lake in Ghana (Lake Bosomtwe), and the many museums and colourful cultural centres in between. Take a tour through Asantehene’s Palace or the Manhyia Palace Museum for a touch of history, or alternatively, stroll through the Kumasi market-just be careful not to get lost in these dense and busy streets!
