Ghana Through the Eyes of a Local
21 days from £5575 per person
See this West African wonder-land through the eyes of those who live there with this in depth 21-day itinerary covering the length and breadth of Ghana. Start in Accra fan out to the far reaches of the country, visiting local cultures and learning about wildlife conservation.
This is a sample itinerary : we have added it to inspire your choices and we want to work with you to create a bespoke adventure to perfectly fit your vision. From accommodation to the places you visit everything will be tailored to you. Get in touch and we’ll start on your perfect trip today.
Day 1: Akwaaba (Welcome) to Accra
Your local tour guide will meet with you on your arrival at the Kotoka International Airport Accra, which is situated on the beautiful gold coast of Western Africa.
After boarding our vehicle, which will be your mode of transport for the duration of your tour, we transfer you to your accommodation which is situated in Accra. Most flights arrive here in the late evenings so as such after checking you in, your experienced guide will brief you on all aspects of your trip. You can enjoy your evening meal at the hotel restaurant whilst acclimatising yourself to West Africa.
Day 2: Exploring Accra
Take a relaxed start to the morning as you allow the rush hour traffic to pass before setting off to one of Accra’s best local markets. You can choose to skip or have a light breakfast at your accommodation this morning as it would be a perfect chance to experience one of the local street foods Ghanaians eat at one of the many stalls in the Makola Market.
In the afternoon pass by Black Star Square which houses the independence monument and continue to Independence Square which is the main ceremony grounds and where you will find the enclosed flame of African liberation. A fascinating afternoon and evening is in store as you head downtown to Jamestown; one of the oldest suburbs of Accra. The afternoon will be dedicated to the community here as you take on a walking tour of this old community taking in some of the historical structures that predate the colonial era. A short distance from these is a small local street bar and restaurant in the heart of the community where you can enjoy your evening meal and refreshments. Spending the afternoon and evening here really makes you feel part of the community.
Day 3: Krobo and the Wli Waterfalls
After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and head out of this bustling city. Krobo is the first location you will visit this morning on your way to the Volta Region of Ghana. The Krobo people of Ghana are renowned for their traditional bead jewelry that dates back centuries and it would be wonderful to see and learn firsthand the historical importance of beads and learn the ancient process used to make them. Many families in Krobo communities make beautiful beads and you will dedicate a few hours visiting one of the family compounds to have a go at producing your own beads.
Your journey continues to the Volta Region of Ghana as you cross the White Volta River and head towards Wli, stopping for lunch at a restaurant overlooking this stunning river. Continue after lunch to Wli arriving in the late afternoon. After checking into your accommodation, set off for the Wli (Agumatsa) Falls found in the Agumatsa wildlife sanctuary in the Volta region of Ghana. The Wli Falls are believed to be the highest waterfall in West Africa, set in a beautiful location the surrounding flora and fauna make this an idyllic setting. On your arrival, trek through the thick semi deciduous forest leading to the falls from Wli village. As you near the falls, listen to the enormous colony of Straw-coloured Fruit Bats found on the adjacent cliffs mixed with the powerful flow of the river.
Relax and enjoy a paddle in the pool beneath the waterfall which is safe for swimming if you are feeling adventurous. If you are feeling fit, then there is also the option to hike to the upper falls before returning to your accommodation for an evening of relaxation.
Your journey continues to the Volta Region of Ghana as you cross the White Volta River and head towards Wli, stopping for lunch at a restaurant overlooking this stunning river. Continue after lunch to Wli arriving in the late afternoon. After checking into your accommodation, set off for the Wli (Agumatsa) Falls found in the Agumatsa wildlife sanctuary in the Volta region of Ghana. The Wli Falls are believed to be the highest waterfall in West Africa, set in a beautiful location the surrounding flora and fauna make this an idyllic setting. On your arrival, trek through the thick semi deciduous forest leading to the falls from Wli village. As you near the falls, listen to the enormous colony of Straw-coloured Fruit Bats found on the adjacent cliffs mixed with the powerful flow of the river.
Relax and enjoy a paddle in the pool beneath the waterfall which is safe for swimming if you are feeling adventurous. If you are feeling fit, then there is also the option to hike to the upper falls before returning to your accommodation for an evening of relaxation.
Day 4: Hiking Mount Afajato and Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary
An early start this morning after breakfast as you set off to Mount Afajato. The morning will be dedicated to hiking Ghana’s highest mountain Afajato which is an elevation of approximately 885 meters. Your guides are experts in butterflies, birds and all of Ghana’s flora and fauna and during your walk they can share with you the exceptional nature that occurs in this part of Ghana.
The afternoon is spent with the locals from the village of Tafi Atome, a wonderful community protecting a population of endangered True Mona monkeys. The community here perceives the Mona Monkeys to be sacred messengers from the gods and have been protecting the monkeys and their habitat for over 200 years.
In the evening, head back to where you crossed the White Volta and check into your accommodation that is set on the banks of this beautiful river to relax for the evening after an action-packed day.
The afternoon is spent with the locals from the village of Tafi Atome, a wonderful community protecting a population of endangered True Mona monkeys. The community here perceives the Mona Monkeys to be sacred messengers from the gods and have been protecting the monkeys and their habitat for over 200 years.
In the evening, head back to where you crossed the White Volta and check into your accommodation that is set on the banks of this beautiful river to relax for the evening after an action-packed day.
Day 5: Aburi Botanical Gardens and the Road to Kumasi
Your journey today will take you into the beautiful Akuapem hills with outstanding views across Tema. At the top of the range, you will find the Aburi botanical gardens, set in a beautiful location that offers outstanding views all the way to Accra on a clear day.
Lunch will be taken in Koforidua on route to Kumasi. After mixing with the locals at the market, continue your journey to Kumasi, home of the Asantehene, King of the powerful Ashanti empire. On reaching Kumasi check into your hotel with the remainder of the day as free leisure time.
Lunch will be taken in Koforidua on route to Kumasi. After mixing with the locals at the market, continue your journey to Kumasi, home of the Asantehene, King of the powerful Ashanti empire. On reaching Kumasi check into your hotel with the remainder of the day as free leisure time.
Day 6: Ancient Kente and West Africa's Largest Market
Today you will mix old and new as you travel back in time visiting some of the ancient communities famous for producing local cloth designs and later in the day, you will also meet new young vibrant designers who are putting Ghana on the map for fashion. Your journey through Ashanti history starts by visiting the birthplace of Ghana’s rich colorful Kente cloth. Spend time here with the community, interacting with the locals whose families have been weaving kente for generations playing an important role in the history of this beautiful cloth. A workshop has been arranged for us to all try our hand at weaving with one of the families.
After lunch, head to Adum which is the commercial center of Kumasi and where most Ghanaians shop. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Adum and walking down to Kejetia market which is reported to be the largest outdoor market in West Africa. In the evening choose between resting at your accommodation or heading into town to experience local nightlife and music in Kumasi.
After lunch, head to Adum which is the commercial center of Kumasi and where most Ghanaians shop. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Adum and walking down to Kejetia market which is reported to be the largest outdoor market in West Africa. In the evening choose between resting at your accommodation or heading into town to experience local nightlife and music in Kumasi.
Day 7: The Road to Tamale
After an early breakfast this morning, set off from Kumasi heading north to Tamale Capital of the Northern Region of Ghana. The aim is to arrive in Tamale for the late afternoon and check into your accommodation. If time permits, you can set off to the Zongo district of Tamale and the open-air tannery. This traditional tannery is where leather goods have been made by hand for generations. A well-deserved rest this evening as you relax at your accommodation and enjoy an evening meal in the capital of the northern region of Ghana.
Day 8: A Cultural Day and the Oracle of the Tenzug
An early breakfast this morning as you set off to the large central market, a great way to experience everyday life for the people here. Central market is a wonderful bustling busy market that sells an excellent selection of traditional fabrics, beads and cloth. The National Centre of Culture, which is Tamale’s largest arts and crafts market, is next on your to do list before heading further North to Bolgatanga after lunch. Prior to arriving in Bolgatanga which is the largest town in the Upper East and the capital of this region you will make the short detour to Tongo Hills. Tongo Hills is a mysterious place where there are numerous pinnacles formed by enormous rocks.
The local Tenzug Hills are stunning and offer wonderful photographic opportunities as you have exceptional views from this high vantage point. The local community are still very much dedicated to their traditional beliefs and you will notice most houses have their own active shrines outside that are still in use today. The Talensi people suffered badly from slave raiders during the colonial rule and were once ejected from the hills. However, they offered staunch resistance to British rule inspired by ancient ancestral spirits and the Oracle of the Talensi which you will visit during your time here. From here you will continue to Bolgatanga.
Bolgatanga was one of the main meeting locations during the ancient trans-Saharan trade routes from Mali that travelled through Tamale to Southern Ghana. Explore the local area ith a guided tour before settling down with an evening meal.
Day 9: Sirigu and the Bolga Baskets
A major highlight of your time in this region of Ghana will be visiting the community of Sirigu which is in a remote location approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the regional capital Bolgatanga. As you approach the community in what we feel is the most picturesque area in the Upper East, the beautifully decorated houses of the local community will definitely catch your eye.
As you walk around the community your local guide will explain the meanings and stories being told on the houses in the community. Your first port of call in Sirigu is SWOPA (Sirigu Women of Pottery and Art) which is a fantastic organization established by a local Madam Melanie Kasise. SWOPA has empowered over 400 women in the local community teaching them artistic skills in pottery, painting, basket weaving and tie-die enabling them to support their families through the revenue they receive when selling these items.
After lunch, set off to the nearby town of Navrongo close to the border of Burkina Faso. In old Navrongo you will find the unusual large Catholic Cathedral a fascinating mixture of European architecture and local construction techniques using mud bricks and plastered using mud and cow dung mortar.
The Pikworo Slave Camp is a poignant reminder of the recent dark past during the slave trade era and a must visit during your time here. After a wonderful and reflective day, return to your accommodation for an evening meal and to relax.
As you walk around the community your local guide will explain the meanings and stories being told on the houses in the community. Your first port of call in Sirigu is SWOPA (Sirigu Women of Pottery and Art) which is a fantastic organization established by a local Madam Melanie Kasise. SWOPA has empowered over 400 women in the local community teaching them artistic skills in pottery, painting, basket weaving and tie-die enabling them to support their families through the revenue they receive when selling these items.
After lunch, set off to the nearby town of Navrongo close to the border of Burkina Faso. In old Navrongo you will find the unusual large Catholic Cathedral a fascinating mixture of European architecture and local construction techniques using mud bricks and plastered using mud and cow dung mortar.
The Pikworo Slave Camp is a poignant reminder of the recent dark past during the slave trade era and a must visit during your time here. After a wonderful and reflective day, return to your accommodation for an evening meal and to relax.
Day 10: Mole National Park
After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to the Upper East Region of Ghana and set off South back through Tamale before heading West to Ghana’s premier wildlife viewing park. The aim is to reach Mole National Park in the mid-afternoon taking lunch on route. On arrival in Mole National Park, check into your accommodation. Situated on a 250-meter-high escarpment overlooking this 4840km² park, it offers breathtaking views.
The evening is dedicated to relaxing in this stunning location, watching the sun set over the guinea woodland and savannah that surrounds the accommodation, before enjoying an evening meal and the atmosphere of being so close to nature.
The evening is dedicated to relaxing in this stunning location, watching the sun set over the guinea woodland and savannah that surrounds the accommodation, before enjoying an evening meal and the atmosphere of being so close to nature.
Day 11: "...Always Ready to Travel"
Today starts with a buzz as you set off early in the morning with an armed guide tracking the world’s largest land mammal, African Elephants on foot. You spend the morning getting a glimpse of these amazing mammals. You are sure to encounter many other animals during your trek as we set off around the watering holes.
Lunch is enjoyed around the pool of your accommodation and you can take this advantage to cool off with a swim or relax for a few hours before your afternoon activities. The afternoon is dedicated to visiting the nearby village of Mognori which is located on the boundary of the park approximately a 30 minutes’ drive from your accommodation.
Afterwards you will get to experience a river safari in traditional dugout canoe. During this safari your local guide will look out for the many birds and wildlife you may encounter before returning to your accommodation to relax under the night sky.
Lunch is enjoyed around the pool of your accommodation and you can take this advantage to cool off with a swim or relax for a few hours before your afternoon activities. The afternoon is dedicated to visiting the nearby village of Mognori which is located on the boundary of the park approximately a 30 minutes’ drive from your accommodation.
Afterwards you will get to experience a river safari in traditional dugout canoe. During this safari your local guide will look out for the many birds and wildlife you may encounter before returning to your accommodation to relax under the night sky.
Day 12: Kintambo Waterfall
Today is mainly a travel day as you make your way south, however, you still have some amazing places to visit during your journey to Kumasi. Your first stop will be just before lunch at the beautiful Kintampo Waterfalls a fast-flowing waterfall with small pool at the bottom which is good for swimming. Some of our more adventurous guests use this opportunity to experience Ghana’s most powerful “Power Shower” a great way to freshen up during our journey. Lunch will be at the nearby Falls restaurant before you continue passing through Techiman on your way to Boebeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary. These two villages nestled closely together have been protecting the Black and White Colobus and Lowes Mona monkeys which are found in the surrounding forests. After a wonderful time with the friendly locals here, continue your journey to Kumasi, arriving in the early evening.
Day 13: Manhyia Palace and Village Life
A morning of culture and history awaits you as you set off early heading to the Manhyia Palace, home of the Asantehene King of the Ashanti’s and ruler of the powerful Asanteman Kingdom. Set off and depart Kumasi heading south to the villages of Bonkro and Breku. The aim is to reach these remote communities in time for lunch which will be prepared in the village by your local chef. Most Ghanaians live in remote communities and work as subsistence farmers with some having larger farms. After enjoying lunch, time to get your gardening gloves on as you set off to the boundary of the reserve where you will get a chance to plant native trees. Spend the afternoon in the community and after a wonderful day, our evening is spent with the community as you relax at our accommodation and enjoy your evening meal whilst experiencing village life in this remote part of Ghana.
Day 14: Living as a Local
A relaxed morning as you enjoy breakfast in this remote community taking in village life in this beautiful setting. During breakfast you can decide which local dishes you would like to learn to cook, as you have been in Ghana for almost a week, you are certain you will all have a local favourite which your chefs will be happy to teach you how to prepare.
The focus after breakfast is on heading to the local markets to purchase ingredients for dinner which is a great way to experience daily life here, mixing in the markets, bartering for produce and then heading back to our village to prepare a local meal. Lunch will be taken at a local chop bar (local restaurant) in town as we shop for ingredients for our dinner.
Other options here are assisting the locals to produce Gari which is one of their main sources of income, heading to one of the local farms to harvest the cassava, bringing it to the local mill and then learning how prepare it to be sent to the local market for sale to be helpful to the local community.
Your evening meal is taken around an open bonfire, listening to local stories, music and mixing with the community.
The focus after breakfast is on heading to the local markets to purchase ingredients for dinner which is a great way to experience daily life here, mixing in the markets, bartering for produce and then heading back to our village to prepare a local meal. Lunch will be taken at a local chop bar (local restaurant) in town as we shop for ingredients for our dinner.
Other options here are assisting the locals to produce Gari which is one of their main sources of income, heading to one of the local farms to harvest the cassava, bringing it to the local mill and then learning how prepare it to be sent to the local market for sale to be helpful to the local community.
Your evening meal is taken around an open bonfire, listening to local stories, music and mixing with the community.
Day 15: The Journey to Cape Coast Castle
After breakfast in the village, bid farewell to your new friends in the community and set off Southwards towards Elmina in the central region of Ghana. The town of Elmina was given its name by the Portuguese due to the abundance of Gold found in Ghana, translated Elmina means The Mine. You will stop at Assin Manso, an important town along the enslaved African trade routes. The town surrounds the Ndonkor Nsuo (Enslaved African River) which is where enslaved Africans were checked for fitness and bathed before being transported to Cape Coast for shipment to the Americas. After your visit to the river, make your way to Cape Coast Castle using the same route the slaves were forced to make not so long ago.
A trip to Cape Castle and a tour of its rich and often harrowing history will complete this journey. Time will be spent on an emotional trip touring this castle which held more enslaved Africans captive than any other in West Africa, viewing the dungeons and the infamous “Door of no return”.
After visiting the castle, immerse yourselves into African art during a traditional batik making workshop with Global Mamas. An excellent organisation empowering local women to learn artistic skills and connecting them with the Fair Trade Market.
After a day with so many varied experiences, from the tropical forests of inland Ghana to the beautiful coastal communities you will set off to your beach front accommodation to relax for the evening.
A trip to Cape Castle and a tour of its rich and often harrowing history will complete this journey. Time will be spent on an emotional trip touring this castle which held more enslaved Africans captive than any other in West Africa, viewing the dungeons and the infamous “Door of no return”.
After visiting the castle, immerse yourselves into African art during a traditional batik making workshop with Global Mamas. An excellent organisation empowering local women to learn artistic skills and connecting them with the Fair Trade Market.
After a day with so many varied experiences, from the tropical forests of inland Ghana to the beautiful coastal communities you will set off to your beach front accommodation to relax for the evening.
Day 16: The Highs and Lows
An action-packed day lies ahead and an early start as you enjoy the sunrise and your breakfast on arguably Ghana’s finest beach front location. Africa’s world-famous rainforest canopy walkway awaits as you set off to Kakum National Park which is a semi-deciduous upper guinea rainforest. This is a truly beautiful, tropical guinea rainforest and the canopy walkway is sure to be a highlight of your time in Cape Coast.
A short distance from Kakum and on the border of the forest you find the International Stingless Bee Project. There have been approximately 9 species of stingless bees identified here in Ghana and their importance to our eco system is paramount.
Stop for lunch at Han’s cottage Botel near Kakum. Han’s is built over a lake containing Nile crocodiles and is an excellent place to enjoy lunch before setting off for an afternoon of relaxation at your accommodation that is positioned on one of Ghana’s finest beach front locations.
After a wonderful day exploring nature and experiencing local life this is a well-earned afternoon of rest before your evening meal. Head into town to experience local nightlife after your meal or choose to relax.
A short distance from Kakum and on the border of the forest you find the International Stingless Bee Project. There have been approximately 9 species of stingless bees identified here in Ghana and their importance to our eco system is paramount.
Stop for lunch at Han’s cottage Botel near Kakum. Han’s is built over a lake containing Nile crocodiles and is an excellent place to enjoy lunch before setting off for an afternoon of relaxation at your accommodation that is positioned on one of Ghana’s finest beach front locations.
After a wonderful day exploring nature and experiencing local life this is a well-earned afternoon of rest before your evening meal. Head into town to experience local nightlife after your meal or choose to relax.
Day 17: The Western Villages an the Ankasa Reserve
After breakfast on the beach front, check out of your accommodation and set off Westwards towards the Ivory Coast border and the Ankasa Reserve. The aim is to reach Beyin in time for lunch prior to setting off through the beautiful Amasuri wetlands in traditional dugout canoe to find the community of Nzulezu Stilt Village. The boat ride is a major highlight as the wetlands are beautiful, marshy swamps now recognized as globally important wetlands for birds. The ride on the wetlands in traditional canoe is the perfect afternoon and meeting the local community is also a highlight of our time here.
Finally, we set off towards Ankasa Reserve which is connected to the Nini-Suhien National and protects an area of over 500 square kilometers of mostly pristine wet evergreen upper guinea rainforest. On arrival, check into your accommodation and there will be an option for a night walk inside the forest.
Finally, we set off towards Ankasa Reserve which is connected to the Nini-Suhien National and protects an area of over 500 square kilometers of mostly pristine wet evergreen upper guinea rainforest. On arrival, check into your accommodation and there will be an option for a night walk inside the forest.
Day 18: The Bamboo Cathedral
What a beautiful way to start a morning waking up so close to nature near this wonderful forest habitat. Today's must see is the stunning Bamboo Cathedral located approximately 12 kilometers inside the forest from the main entrance gate. You have 2 options to get to this remote location, by mountain bikes or using one of the 4x4 vehicles owned by the accommodation. Though it requires an earlier start, the feeling of riding through the remote beautiful location is well worth getting out of bed. A full morning is dedicated to being inside the forest, your guides are on hand to identify any birds or mammals you may come across during your journey to the Bamboo Cathedral. Lunch will be back at our accommodation after an adventurous morning inside the forest where you can also relax and recharge our batteries. This is the Ghana most visitors do not see, a remote community of mainly subsistence farmers living happily in basic mud houses trading their produce at the local markets to enable them to buy items and provide for their families.
A relaxed afternoon spending time in the village, if you would like to be more active, you can also take on an afternoon biking around the surrounding area or to walk trail in the forest looking for wildlife. Your evening will be spent listening to the sounds of nature at your accommodation.
Day 19: Head For The Beach
After your last morning exploring Ankasa, set off eastwards to your beachfront accommodation and spend the day at leisure. As the sun starts to set, an area to eat on the beachfront will be arranged for you to enjoy your evening meal around a bonfire. A special treat has been arranged this evening as a local traditional Ghanaian drumming and dance troupe join you on the beach to perform. Historically traditional music and dance tells a story and you will get an insight into the meaning behind some of the more popular ones. A perfect way to spend your last evening in Ghana.
Day 20: Rest Day
A well-deserved full day of relaxing at this beautiful location after the exertions of your previous few week’s adventures. The peace and tranquility is always welcome here, you can choose to walk to one of the nearby lagoons or stroll into the local fishing village if you would like to stretch your legs.
Day 21: Elmina Markets and Departure
Check out of our accommodation and set off back towards Accra. A few hours free time to explore Elmina fishing town before you leave makes for an enjoyable morning. During your time in Elmina, visit the local fishing market and walk the short distance to visit the boat builders in this community. Almost all the fishing boats used in this bustling fishing community are traditional wooden boats whose design has not changed in centuries and neither have the tools and methods used to build them.
Your journey continues towards Accra stopping at Winneba for our lunch. On arrival in Accra enjoy a meal at a local restaurant before transferring to the airport for your departure and a fond farewell from Ghana.
Your journey continues towards Accra stopping at Winneba for our lunch. On arrival in Accra enjoy a meal at a local restaurant before transferring to the airport for your departure and a fond farewell from Ghana.
Terms and Conditions
Tour summary
Duration: 7 Days 6 Nights
Vehicle type: This will depend on your group size.
What is included in the price?
Accommodation: This will be pre-determined prior to your booking and will depend on your budget.
Food: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner is included on all scheduled tours, in addition your guides and drivers regularly purchase fruit and local snacks for our tour participants to try.
Transportation: Unlimited milage in a fully air-conditioned vehicle which will be available to you for the duration of your tour. The vehicle type will depend on the group size, all vehicles are comprehensively insured and serviced regularly.
Guide and Driver: Guide and Driver allowance, accommodation and food are included in the tour price. Your local guide will be available 24/7 if needed.
Excursion costs: All excursion fees detailed in the itinerary are included in the tour price.
What is not included?
Duration: 7 Days 6 Nights
Vehicle type: This will depend on your group size.
What is included in the price?
Accommodation: This will be pre-determined prior to your booking and will depend on your budget.
Food: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner is included on all scheduled tours, in addition your guides and drivers regularly purchase fruit and local snacks for our tour participants to try.
Transportation: Unlimited milage in a fully air-conditioned vehicle which will be available to you for the duration of your tour. The vehicle type will depend on the group size, all vehicles are comprehensively insured and serviced regularly.
Guide and Driver: Guide and Driver allowance, accommodation and food are included in the tour price. Your local guide will be available 24/7 if needed.
Excursion costs: All excursion fees detailed in the itinerary are included in the tour price.
What is not included?
- International flights
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Soft and alcoholic drinks
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