Ghanaian Coastal Plain Travel Guide

Plan your trip to the beautiful Ghanaian Coastal Plain in West Africa with this comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Ghanaian Coastal Plain

Located in West Africa, Ghanaian Coastal Plain is a haven for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. With a stunning coastline, rich culture, and fascinating history, the area has become increasingly popular with tourists from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Ghanaian Coastal Plain, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Ghanaian Coastal Plain

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ghanaian Coastal Plain is home to several museums and historical sites that provide a fascinating insight into the area’s past. Some of the must-visit destinations include:

  • Cape Coast Castle: One of the most visited attractions in the area, Cape Coast Castle was once a hub for the transatlantic slave trade.
  • Elmina Castle: Another popular destination, Elmina Castle is one of the oldest European buildings in Africa, dating back to the 15th century.
  • Nzulezu: A unique floating village built on stilts in the middle of a lake.

Natural Attractions of Ghanaian Coastal Plain: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who love the great outdoors, there are plenty of natural attractions in Ghanaian Coastal Plain. Here are a few of the best:

  • Kakum National Park: Covering an area of 357 square kilometers, Kakum is home to diverse flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
  • Ada Foah: Located at the estuary of the Volta River, Ada Foah boasts beautiful beaches and mangrove swamps.
  • Aburi Botanical Gardens: A peaceful oasis just outside of Accra, Aburi Botanical Gardens offers stunning views and a variety of plant species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ghanaian Coastal Plain

Hiking and biking are great ways to explore the area’s natural beauty. Here are a few popular routes:

  • Aburi Mountains: This range of mountains near Aburi Botanical Gardens offers a variety of hikes suitable for all levels of experience.
  • Western Nzema: With its diverse landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, Western Nzema is a popular destination for biking enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Ghanaian Coastal Plain: Activities and Tours

In addition to the attractions and natural beauty of Ghanaian Coastal Plain, there are plenty of activities and tours available. Some of the best things to do in the area include:

  • Surfing: The beaches of Ghanaian Coastal Plain are perfect for surfing, with several surfing schools offering lessons for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
  • Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity in many coastal towns, with several companies offering fishing tours.
  • Cultural Tours: Learn about the rich history and culture of the area with a cultural tour, visiting traditional villages and seeing cultural performances such as drumming and dancing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ghanaian Coastal Plain

If you have a week to explore Ghanaian Coastal Plain, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the city of Accra and visit the National Museum of Ghana.

Day 2: Visit Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, learning about the slave trade history and seeing the beautiful architecture.

Day 3: Spend a day at Kakum National Park, exploring the treetop walkway and taking a guided nature walk.

Day 4: Take a cultural tour, visiting traditional villages and experiencing local culture.

Day 5: Relax on the beaches of Ada Foah and enjoy the scenic views.

Day 6: Go on a fishing tour, learning about local fishing techniques and trying your luck at fishing.

Day 7: Spend the day visiting Nzulezu, the unique floating village built on stilts in the middle of a lake.

Food and Drink Scene of Ghanaian Coastal Plain

With its rich culinary heritage, Ghanaian Coastal Plain is a foodie’s paradise. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Jollof Rice: A popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices.
  • Banku: A fermented corn and cassava dough that is usually eaten with soup or stew.
  • Fufu: A starchy side dish made from cassava, plantains, or yams, often served with soup or stew.

Local Beverages

  • Palm Wine: A popular traditional drink made from the sap of palm trees.
  • Sobolo: A refreshing drink made from hibiscus flowers, often served cold.

Where to Stay in Ghanaian Coastal Plain: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Ghanaian Coastal Plain, catering to all budgets and preferences. Here are a few options:

  • Luxury: Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, Accra offers luxurious rooms and suites with fantastic views.
  • Mid-range: Elmina Beach Resort offers comfortable rooms with access to a private beach.
  • Budget: The Sleeping Camel offers budget-friendly dorm rooms and private rooms in a central location.

What to Buy in Ghanaian Coastal Plain: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of souvenirs and local products to buy in Ghanaian Coastal Plain, including:

  • Kente cloth: A colorful, hand-woven fabric that is traditionally worn on special occasions.
  • Beads: Ghanaian Coastal Plain is known for its beautiful handmade beads, which come in a range of colors and styles.
  • Shea Butter: A popular natural moisturizer made from shea nuts.

Local Culture and Customs of Ghanaian Coastal Plain

Ghanaian Coastal Plain has a rich culture and heritage, with several customs and traditions unique to the area. Some customs to keep in mind include:

  • As a sign of respect, it’s customary to shake hands when greeting someone.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.
  • Avoid using your left hand to eat or pass objects, as it is considered impolite.

Best Time to Visit Ghanaian Coastal Plain

The best time to visit Ghanaian Coastal Plain is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. Temperatures are cooler during this time, and there is less rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ghanaian Coastal Plain

Do:

  • Learn a few phrases in the local language, such as “hello” and “thank you.”
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Haggle too aggressively when shopping in markets.
  • Touch sacred objects or artifacts in museums.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ghanaian Coastal Plain

Ghanaian Coastal Plain is generally safe for visitors, but it’s important to take a few precautions to ensure your safety:

  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash or wearing expensive jewelry.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Only use licensed taxi services.

Health in Ghanaian Coastal Plain

Visitors to Ghanaian Coastal Plain should take precautions to avoid contracting certain illnesses, such as malaria and yellow fever. Some recommended health precautions include:

  • Getting vaccinated for yellow fever and other travel-related illnesses.
  • Taking antimalarial medication as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Avoiding tap water and only drinking bottled water.

Getting to Ghanaian Coastal Plain: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ghanaian Coastal Plain

  • Kotoka International Airport: Located in the capital city of Accra, Kotoka International is the main airport in the area.

Bus Stations Near Ghanaian Coastal Plain

  • STC: A popular bus company with services to many destinations in Ghana.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are a convenient and affordable way to get around Ghanaian Coastal Plain, but make sure you use licensed taxis.

How to Get Around in Ghanaian Coastal Plain

There are several transportation options available for getting around Ghanaian Coastal Plain, including:

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available and affordable, but always use licensed taxis.
  • Buses: Several bus companies offer services to many destinations in Ghana.
  • Car Rental: Rental cars are available at the airport and in major towns.

Where to Go Next from Ghanaian Coastal Plain: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your West African adventure, here are a few nearby destinations to consider:

  • Lomé, Togo: Just a short drive from Ghanaian Coastal Plain, Lomé is the capital city of Togo and offers a range of cultural attractions and scenic views.
  • Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso: A vibrant and bustling city with a rich culture and history.
  • Abidjan, Ivory Coast: A beautiful coastal city with stunning architecture and a unique blend of traditional and modern culture.

Conclusion

Ghanaian Coastal Plain is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, there’s plenty to see and do. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to this stunning West African region.

Slave dungeon in Fort Amsterdam Slave dungeon in Fort Amsterdam


    Aburi
    Ada
    Adenta East
    Axim
    Kakum National Park
    Tema