Ghana In Depth
- Duration
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,365
FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Uncover the history and culture that makes Ghana a must-visit destination. Explore historic forts and slave castles, meander through bustling markets, spot elephants and monkeys on safari drives, and immerse yourself in Ghanaian traditions as you traverse the West African nation.
This 12-day West African vacation takes you across Ghana, from the capital, Accra, to Kakum National Park, the colonial castles of Cape Coast and Elmina, the villages of the Ashanti Kingdom, and landmarks of Kumasi. It features first-class accommodations and private tours.
Your journey to Ghana begins in the capital, Accra, the largest city on the Gulf of Guinea. Spend a day getting to know this busy city that blends colonial fortifications and mansions with stunning beachside hangouts and lively markets. You’ll head from the 17th-century colonial castle of Christiansborg to Independence Square, where you’ll see the Black Star monument to the nation’s independence, and continue to Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, dedicated to the former president, before ending at the Arts Centre where you can barter for some handmade crafts.
From Accra, head down the coastline and enter Kakum National Park, one of West Africa’s last surviving rainforests. Head along the canopy walkway to explore the jungle and spot butterflies, hornbills, and monkeys. In the afternoon, tour the infamous slave history of Cape Coast, culminating in Cape Coast Castle, a 17th-century Swedish fortification that was central to the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Continue exploring the dark chapters of the slave trade in Elmina, where you’ll see the white-washed Portuguese castle of Elmina, the first European structure built in sub-Saharan Africa. On a walking tour of Elmina, you’ll also climb Jago Hill to reach Fort Saint Jargo, a Dutch fortification used to assault the Portuguese.
Take a break from the dark colonial history with a trip to the Global Mamas Cultural Workshop, where you’ll learn to make some Ghanaian dishes and join a batik class, dying colourful designs on one-of-a-kind-fabric. Continue along the coast and stop at the Slave River near Assin Manso to learn about this infamous transit spot for the slave trade. Reach Kumasi, the former capital of the Ashanti Kingdom that ruled the region in previous centuries. A visit to Manhyia Palace Museum will shed light on the history of this important kingdom before you tour some key spots around the city. The next day, visit three craft villages to learn about the artistic heritage of local artisans and have the chance to shop for local fabrics and textiles.
Continue onward to Mole, stopping in the former slave markets of Kintampo and Assin Bono to learn more about the slave trade the defined this region for centuries. You’ll also enjoy a beautiful break at the Kintampo Waterfalls before reaching Mole. From Mole, you’ll head on an excursion to lay eyes on Larabanga Mosque, thought to be the oldest mosque in West Africa. Admire the historical structure before heading on an afternoon safari drive into Mole National Park to have the chance to spot hyenas, leopards, and elephants. After another safari game drive the following morning, you’ll fly back to Accra for one final special experience in Ghana. Head into the Volta region to join with local elders to take part in a traditional naming ceremony and enjoy the celebration of song and dance that comes with it.
After your final night in Accra, you’ll head to the airport to connect back home.
- Duration
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,365
Itinerary View Trip Map
Arrive Accra
Akwaaba (Welcome)! Upon arrival at Accra International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax and explore on your own.
Duration | 2 Nights |
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Accommodation |
African Regent Hotel |
Location | View map |
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African Regent Hotel
The African Regent has gained recognition as the hotel of choice for both international travelers and savvy locals. Understanding the strong link between business and tourism, the African Regent provides an atmosphere to experience Africa and its rich culture right here at the hotel, making …
The African Regent has gained recognition as the hotel of choice for both international travelers and savvy locals. Understanding the strong link between business and tourism, the African Regent provides an atmosphere to experience Africa and its rich culture right here at the hotel, making it a tourism destination in itself.
The luxurious rooms and suites are not only world class standard, they are also tastefully designed with fabric, colors and etchings of 'Adinkra' symbols that symbolize everything good there is about Africa. The hotel's restaurant - 'Mukyia', hosts the best African themed Sunday brunch in the capital, prepared by our team of recognized chefs.
Located less than 5 minutes from the main airport, Accra polo club, the Accra Mall and the Tetteh Quarshie Art Market, the hotel provides every traveler into the city, be it for business or leisure, the opportunity to explore and experience Accra in the most convenient way possible.Facilities
- Car Rental Service
- Gym
- Lounge Bar
- Pool
- Restaurant
- WI-FI
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Accra
After breakfast at your hotel, your guide will pick you up for your sightseeing tour of Accra. This 139-year-old city has a blend of colonial and modern architecture that summarizes the history of this capital city. See the Christiansborg Castle in Osu (also known as Fort Christiansborg), a 17th-century castle located on the shores of the Atlantic. Visit the W. E. B. Dubois Centre for Pan African Culture, before heading to Independence/ Black Star Square with its many monuments dedicated to Ghana's independence struggles including the Independence Arch and Black Star Gate. Next, head to Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, dedicated to prominent Ghanaian President Kwame Nkrumah. End your tour at the Arts Centre where you will have an opportunity to use your bargaining skills to shop from an open-air market for artifacts from Ghana and West Africa before returning to your hotel where the remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Accra to Kakum National Park to Cape Coast
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and drive to Kakum National Park, one of West Africa's surviving tropical rain forests. Extending over 360sq km, Kakum is the home to over 40 large mammals and 400 bird species as well as many species of butterflies, flora, and fauna. The most popular attraction is the Canopy walkway, which is made up of seven bridges extending 330m, hanging 30m (100 feet) above the forest floor. Enjoy a 2 km nature walk through this forest to discover the wide variety of exotic floral species and the medicinal values they offer.
Afterward, embark on a tour of the infamous Forts, Castles, and Slave Dungeons of Ghana. History will unfold the story of the slave trade, of which the impact is still felt beyond the shores of Africa today. Visit the Cape Coast Castle, which was built by the Swedes in 1653 and was later taken over by the British. This castle also houses the West African Historical Museum established by the Smithsonian Institute in collaboration with the Ghanaian Government in 1994.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 3 Nights |
Accommodation |
Ridge Royal Hotel |
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Ridge Royal Hotel
Situated in the perfect location to explore the Cape Coast and surrounds, the Ridge Royal Hotel offers all the modern conveniences with spacious air-conditioned rooms with balcony - the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Serving International and Ghanaian cuisine, …
Situated in the perfect location to explore the Cape Coast and surrounds, the Ridge Royal Hotel offers all the modern conveniences with spacious air-conditioned rooms with balcony - the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. Serving International and Ghanaian cuisine, the hotel restaurant is sure to tantalize your tastebuds with its a la carte and buffet themes for lunch and dinner.
Photo gallery
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Elmina Castle and Elmina Walking tour
After early morning breakfast, depart the hotel for your visit to the Elmina Castle built by the Portuguese in 1482. Also known as St. George's Castle, Elmina Castle was the first European structure built in Sub - Saharan Africa. The colorful harbor nestled below, full of pirogues preparing to go to the sea offers one of West Africa's greatest photo opportunities.
After a break for lunch (on your own account), this afternoon you embark on a guided walking tour of Elmina, which was the first point of European contact in Sub-Saharan Africa and was once the most cosmopolitan city in Tropical Africa.
What better way to appreciate it than to immerse oneself in its main industry -- fishing! Meet with local fishermen to learn the intricacies of their trade and the challenges they face in their day-to-day work. Next, meet the fishmongers in the village who will demonstrate the various stages of smoking the fish in earthenware ovens. This is a unique way to experience one of Ghana's oldest and most important trades.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Global Mamas (Culinary Experience and Batik Making)
After breakfast, depart your hotel and visit the Global Mamas Cultural Workshop. Explore the fragrant and exotic flavors of West African cuisine in Auntie Esi's kitchen. Esi will introduce you to an array of new tastes and flavors as you learn how to create authentic Ghanaian dishes. Using African cooking techniques, during this workshop you will create traditional dishes like fufu, groundnut soup, fried plantain, palava sauce, and red red. After learning the recipes, enjoy eating the feast you've helped to prepare. Afterward, discover the art and beauty of African batik and get a glimpse into the life of a local artisan as you work side-by-side during this four-hour class. Join a Global Mamas' batiker in her workshop to learn the traditional techniques of batik production using wax and dye to create colorful patterns - to make your own one-of-a-kind fabric. Afterward, take your two yards of handiwork home to sew into a finished product that will always have a special place in your home or wardrobe.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Elmina to Slave River - Kumasi
After this morning breakfast, check out of your hotel and depart on your drive through the forest zone as you head towards Kumasi, the seat of the Ashanti Empire to explore the legends of the famous Ashanti people, whose legacies are still evident today. En route, stop in the town of Assin Manso, where you will visit the site of "Donkor Nsuo", the former Slave River and market, as well as the final transit point for a large number of enslaved Africans. This is the final resting place for two ancestors whose mortal remains were returned from the USA and Jamaica and re-interred there.
Afterward, continue to Kumasi where you will visit the Manhyia Palace Museum to obtain firsthand information on the legacies of the Ashanti kingdom, with a regal history that dates back to 1700 and is told with relics and artifacts. Enjoy a drive through the city with monuments dedicated to the memory of the great Ashanti people. Your city tour on this day will also include a visit to the famous Kejetia market, the National Cultural Centre which features the Prempeh II Jubilee Museum, and various studios of the brass makers, potters, and batik makers.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 2 Nights |
Accommodation |
Lancaster Kumasi City Hotel |
Location | View map |
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Lancaster Kumasi City Hotel
This hotel is located in Kumasi, offering the perfect setting in which to enjoy a successful business trip, or a relaxing holiday. The hotel is located just a short walking distance away from the city's main entertainment areas, as well as a host of captivating …
This hotel is located in Kumasi, offering the perfect setting in which to enjoy a successful business trip, or a relaxing holiday. The hotel is located just a short walking distance away from the city's main entertainment areas, as well as a host of captivating attractions. This wonderful hotel is within driving distance of a golf course and the airport.
The hotel features beautifully designed apartments and rooms, catering for the needs of every type of traveller. The accommodation options offer comfort and modern conveniences. They offer a number of excellent facilities and services, ensuring a comfortable stay.Facilities
- Fitness Centre
- Meeting and Event Facilities
- Outdoor Pool
- Restaurant
- Wedding Facilities
- Wellness and Spa
Photo gallery
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Ashanti Craft Villages
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel for your day's sightseeing. Enjoy visits to three craft villages where you will have the opportunity to see how African crafts are made and to buy directly from the artisans who make them if you are so inclined. First up is Ahwiaa, a village noted for their woodcarvings along with other handicrafts. Next is a visit to Ntonso, the home of Adinkra cloth. Here you can see the Adinkra cloth made from scratch. The Adinkra was originally only worn Ashanti Region for funerals and made primarily in black or brown, however, nowadays it is made in various colors and used throughout Ghana. Our last stop of the day is Bonwire, the Kente weaving village. Here you will be able to see how these colorful fabrics are made. Afterward, return to your hotel where the remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Kumasi - Kintampo - Mole
After another delicious breakfast, check out of your hotel and depart to Mole. Enroute, stop at the former slave markets of Kintampo and Assin Bono, enjoying this scenic but haunting drive through the land where the slave trade took place. Along the way, you'll notice the change in climate and terrain, which has a direct bearing on the population of Africans that the slave traders targeted. Visit the Kintampo Waterfalls to experience the cool, invigorating atmosphere created by nature and savor the breath-taking view of the cascading waterfall before continuing your drive to Mole.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 2 Nights |
Accommodation |
Zaina Lodge |
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Zaina Lodge
Set in the pristine Mole National Park, inspired by the pristine natural environment and local culture of Northern Ghana is Zaina Lodge. Offering world-class service and endless savannah views, Zaina is the perfect base to explore Mole and the surrounding area. Each of the 25 …
Set in the pristine Mole National Park, inspired by the pristine natural environment and local culture of Northern Ghana is Zaina Lodge. Offering world-class service and endless savannah views, Zaina is the perfect base to explore Mole and the surrounding area. Each of the 25 air-conditioned luxury tented chalets features private balconies, WiFi, ensuite facilities as well as outdoor showers.
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Larabanga Mosque and Afternoon Safari
After breakfast, your day begins with a visit to the Larabanga Mosque, which is thought to be the oldest mosque in Ghana and West Africa. It is popularly referred to as the 'Mecca of West Africa', because of its rich historical and architectural values. At 8m by 8m, the Larabanga Mosque made it to the World Monuments Fund's List of 100 Most Endangered Sites.
Later in the afternoon, set off with a specialist guide in specially made safari vehicles on an afternoon game drive. You'll spend approx. an hour or so in Mole National Park as you search out the many inhabitants of this area including buffaloes, hyenas, roan antelopes, leopards, elephants, and hartebeest.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Morning Jeep Safari - Tamale - Accra
After breakfast, depart for an early morning safari before you head back to your hotel for breakfast. Afterward, check out of your hotel and depart to Tamale Airport where you will board your flight to Accra. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where the remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 2 Nights |
Accommodation |
African Regent Hotel |
Location | View map |
-
African Regent Hotel
The African Regent has gained recognition as the hotel of choice for both international travelers and savvy locals. Understanding the strong link between business and tourism, the African Regent provides an atmosphere to experience Africa and its rich culture right here at the hotel, making …
The African Regent has gained recognition as the hotel of choice for both international travelers and savvy locals. Understanding the strong link between business and tourism, the African Regent provides an atmosphere to experience Africa and its rich culture right here at the hotel, making it a tourism destination in itself.
The luxurious rooms and suites are not only world class standard, they are also tastefully designed with fabric, colors and etchings of 'Adinkra' symbols that symbolize everything good there is about Africa. The hotel's restaurant - 'Mukyia', hosts the best African themed Sunday brunch in the capital, prepared by our team of recognized chefs.
Located less than 5 minutes from the main airport, Accra polo club, the Accra Mall and the Tetteh Quarshie Art Market, the hotel provides every traveler into the city, be it for business or leisure, the opportunity to explore and experience Accra in the most convenient way possible.Facilities
- Car Rental Service
- Gym
- Lounge Bar
- Pool
- Restaurant
- WI-FI
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Living Heritage Ceremony
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel this morning. Depart Accra on a scenic drive to a beautiful village located in the Volta Region. Here you will have the opportunity to pay a courtesy call on the Chief and elders before participating in a traditional naming ceremony, where a Ghanaian name is given to participants and a gift presented as a part of celebrating a new identity as a Ghanaian and member of the local community. Afterward, return to Accra overnight.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Depart
Another delicious breakfast at your hotel this morning followed by time at leisure. Later, you are transferred to the airport in time for your onward flight.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Other Information
DEPARTURES:
Daily
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Private arrival and departure airport transfers
- 4 nights first-class accommodations in Accra
- 3 nights first-class accommodations in Elmina
- 2 nights first-class accommodations in Kumasi
- 2 nights first-class accommodations in Mole National Park
- Transportation in a private air-conditioned vehicle throughout itinerary with professional driver
- Private English speaking guide day 1 through 9
- Shared morning game drive in Mole National Park (max 7 guests)
- Shared afternoon game drive in Mole National Park (max 7 guests)
- One way economy class flight Tamale to Accra including taxes
- Included Entrance fees:
- Dubois Centre
- Nkrumah Park
- Kakum National Park
- Cape Coast Castle
- Elmina Castle
- Elmina Walking Tour
- Cooking Class Batik Making Experience
- Assin Manso Slave River Site
- Manhyia Museum
- Prempeh Jubilee Museum
- Ashanti Craft Villages (Ahwiaa, Ntonso, Bonwire)
- Kintampo Waterfalls
- Larabanga Mosque
- Park Fees Mole National Park and Village Experience
- Breakfast Daily (excluding day 1)
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International airfare and airfare taxes
- Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
- Gratuities
- Optional excursions
- Items of a personal nature
- Visa fees if applicable
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please enquire.
12 Dec 2023