modern AccrA

key
a magazine for travelers by travelers • January/February 2014
ghana
modern
accra
style and Culture
p. 4
top three
get-aways
Read about the three
best secrets for a
meaningful getaway.
+
p. 29
Blitz Accra
p. 11
Key Ghana • volume 13 / 2014
Akwaaba
Welcome to Ghana. As the Information Attaché of the
jan & feb
Embassy of Ghana in Washington DC, I am pleased to
invite you to share the unequaled opportunities that our
country offers and to experience all that makes Ghana
a wonderful place to live and visit. Explore our worldclass museums and attractions, including Independence
Square, The Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum & Museum,
The Ghana National Theater, The National Museum
and much more. We hope that this guide will help you
to explore Accra, whether it’s finding a place to shop,
something to do, a place to stay, or a place to eat. There
are plenty of options for all of these in Ghana. On behalf
of the people of Ghana, I am proud to welcome you to
explore this ever changing country and we wish you a
meaningful and memorable stay.
contents
4
24
Here we invite you to
share the unparalleled
opportunities that Accra
offers.
Shop at neighborhood
markets to unique
boutiques
must-do accra
10
Coming events
Discover Accra’s music,
performing arts, galleries,
sports etc.
16
Sincerely,
map
Explore Accra. This travel
map includes streets &
locations
Vanessa Mensah-Adu (Mrs.)
Ghana Embassy,Washington DC
18
beyond Accra
BURKINO FASO
Discover the unique
wildlife, historical
monuments and so
much more.
Paga
fa s t fa c t s a b o u t g h a n a
Gbele Game
Production
Reserve
Sirigu
Navrongo
Bolgatanga
Wa
Mole
National Park
LANGUAGES
English (official), Akan,
Moshi-Dagomba,
Ewe & Ga.
Entertainment
index
Bui National
Park
Wenchi
Techiman
Digya
National Park
Discover Accra’s many
venues for music, film &
theater
TO G O
Sunyani
CURRENCY
Cedi
ETHNIC GROUPS
Akan 44%, MoshiDagomba 16%, Ewe
Abidjan
13%, Ga 8%, Gurma 3%
20
Lake Volta
GOVERNMENT
Multiparty Democracy
IVORY COAS T
AREA
238,537 sq. kilometers
RELIGIONS
Christian 63%, Muslim
16%, indigenous
beliefs 21%.
Ho
Kumasi
Atewa Forest
Aburi
Boin National
Park
Ankasa Game
Reserve
Amansuri
Lake
Nzulezu
Stilt Village
Kakum
National Park
Cape Coast
Elmina
Sekondi Takoradi
Shai Hills
Accra Tema
A tl an
26
Accommodation
index
Luxury to budget hotels
and holiday rentals
28
Transportation
index
29
top 3 getaways
Read about the three best
secrets for a meaningful
getaway.
key
ghana
Yendi
Tamale
POPULATION
25,000 000
Shopping index
Lome
Ada Foah
ce an
ti c O
22
Dining index
From fine dining to street
food in Accra
Key Ghana LTD
P.O. Box AT 517
Achimota - Accra
Laure Leplae-Arthur, Creative
Director - [email protected]
Nana Nketsia-Eshun, Country Rep.
& Accounts Executive, nnketsia@
ghanakey.com ghanakey.com
This magazine is authorized by KEY
MAGAZINES INC.
KeyMagazine.com
To Advertise Call:
+ 233 244 471 752
or (414) 759 924
10
best of
Accra’s
s t y l e & c u lt u r e
Accra loves sharing its treasures, and this list will give
you a head start. Discover what distinguishes this great
metropolis from every other city in the world.
1
UNIVERSITY
OF GHANA,
LEGON
BOOKSTORE
This bookstore is
situated in the heart of
Legon University and is
a gem of a bookstore if
you are looking for great
African literature and
textbooks that you can’t
find anywhere else.
Check out
the African
writers series,
I couldn’t put
this one down.
6
g h a n a k e y. c o m
2
Ghanaian
FAshion
Designers
We love the new designs coming out of Ghana!
To get in on the fun visit Prestige Boutique in
Osu and Winglow in East Legon. For handbags,
African print swimsuits and accessories Aya
Morrison in Dzorwolu, Inka in Nyaniba Estate
for Jewelry and ajePomaa Design Gallery in
East Legon for gorgeous clothes.
3
Independence
Square
Commemorates the independence of Ghana in 1957
as the first African country
south of the Sahara and is
the venue for many national
celebrations, dominated
by the Independence Arch
and the memorial to the
Unknown Soldier.
4
gallery
hopping
Artist Alliance Gallery is a
fantastic African modern art
gallery located right on the
coast. It is packed with art.
Three floors of art, sculpture,
carvings and artifacts, a
haven for anyone looking to
be inspired or simply enjoy
some incredible work.
Omanye House. Beach Rd.
La, before LaPalm Hotel
Tel: 0245251404
Also, cool stuff like this,
at the Hershel Gallery.
Mankrato Street
East Cantonments
herschelgallery.com
Tel: 0243380668
Accra sports
stadium
5
Experience the passion of Ghana
soccer. To get in on the fun, buy
a copy of the Daily Graphic on a
Friday/Saturday to get accurate
times and dates for the matches
taking place that weekend.
g h a n a k e y. c o m
7
6
catching some
local music
For centuries music has been an integral part of
Ghanaian life. Intensely rhythmic and infused
with meaning, music marks the cycles of life,
animates religious rituals, and communicates
social values. It is therefore not surprising that
you will find an abundance of amazing live music
in Ghana. (P. 22 lists some of our favorite spots.)
Make sure to
get the guide,
Otherwise you
will miss small
plants like the
mimosa, whose
leaflets fold up
when you touch
them!
7
KWAME NKRUMAH MEMORIAL
PARK AND MAUSOLEUM
This park is dedicated to the founding father of Ghana, Kwame
Nkrumah. There is a very decorative and interesting mausoleum that marks his final resting place. The park is expansive
and beautiful, and there are numerous fountains and statues
that are dedicated to Ghana’s independence. Keep an eye out
for the many beautiful peacocks roaming freely on the grounds.
Aburi
Botanical
Gardens
8
eat fresh plantain chips
Plantain chips is one of the
most common food products
you see being sold in
traffic in the streets of
Ghana, don’t miss out.
A 65-hector garden with
some amazingly large
trees along with a variety
of beautiful indigenous
and exotic plants set in
peaceful parkland, that
seems to have a special
ambience. The drive into
the mountains is beautiful.
This is an ideal place for a
family outing or a picnic.
10
9
lose yourself in
makola market
If you are looking for an insight into Ghanaian culture
and life, plunge into one of
Accra’s colorful markets and
feel life happening around
you. Makola is a huge open
air market right in the center
of Accra. In this bustling
market dominated by women
one can find just about anything for a good price.
g h a n a k e y. c o m
9
events- Music
Jan - feb
coming events
Alliance Française Accra.
This month, Wanlov the
Kubolor offers us an original creation to start the
new season with style.
Adults 2 Ghc,1 Ghc for
AF students & members,
Children under 12 free, Alliance Française, 7:30 pm
Witness/Témoin
Short films
contest
Deadline Feb 3
10 Ghanaian short
films will be selected
to be screened before
each long feature
film during the Accra
francophone film
festival. Organized by
the Institut Française.
Contact: stephanie.
soleansky@diplomatie.
gouv.fr (p. 13)
Edina Bronya
festival
Photography Exhibition
January 2
Goethe Institut - February 3 - March 11
Drumming, dancing
and masquerading
are all a part of this
traditional festival
celebrating the lives of
the ancestors. Observe
the prepartions for the
overnight fishing as
colorful fishing canoes
are made ready to go
out to sea. (p. 15)
Internationally renown photographers such as:
Sammy Baloji (DRC), Calvin Dondo (Zimbabwe),
Sabelo Mlangeni (South Africa), Abraham Oghobase
(Nigeria), Monique Pelser (South Africa) and Michael
Tsegaye (Ethiopia), come together for this unique
photo exhibit. (p. 14)
10
g h a n a k e y. c o m
Elmina
Blitz the Ambassador
music
January
g Opoku Mensah
Concert
With magnetic performances that recall the
skills of Ghanaian high life
musicians in the 1960s
and 70s, Opoku began
his music career as a
member of a church band
then joined the Vision
Band a resident group of
the National Theatre of
Ghana. Come enjoy his
next album launch.
Goethe Institut, 7pm
h Blitz the Ambassador
- Afropolitan Dream
The Brooklyn-based rapper will launch his 2014
tour in Accra. Born and
Raised in Accra, Blitz
The Ambassador now
takes the world by storm
armed with his 8-piece
band. About to release
his 3rd album, he already
seduced many with Stereotype and Native Sun.
enjoy a remarkable show
made of a unique blend
of Hip-Hop and Afrobeat
featuring special guests.
At the gate: Adults 20 Ghc
In advance: 15 Ghc / 10
Ghc for AF students and
members, Children under
12 free, Alliance Française, 8 pm
l Helau & Alaaf at the
Goethe Institute
Sharing our moments
of joy through music,
dance and costumes.
This year as a prelude to
the celebration there will
be a mask competition.
Since the main costume
will be the mask we are
throwing up a challenge
to interested persons to
design the craziest mask
for the event. The person
with the craziest mask will
be rewarded for his/her
exceptional creativity.
Goethe Institut, 7pm
February
j La Paillote Takpekpe
directed by Wanlov the
Kubolor
Just like in 2013, every
last Wednesday of the
month, a local emerging
artist, will be in charge of
organizing an innovative
show and present it at
Wanlov the Kubolor
Alliance Française Liberation Link, Airport Area Tel: 0302 77 31 34 / afaccra.com
Goethe-Institut 30 Kakramadu Rd (next to NAFTI ) Cantonments Tel: 0302 779 769 / goethe.de
g h a n a k e y. c o m 1 1
events - film
events - film
vision and she, a pragmatic realist. Free, Goethe
Institut, 7pm
y All That Glitters Ely
and Lila are like sisters.
They share everything,
and known each other
since childhood. Today Ely
and Lila dream of another
life. Through lies, big
and small, they attempt
to seamlessly enter into
a world of luxury that is
not their own. Alliance
Française, 7pm
film
January
9 Der Mann Der Über
Autos Sprang The man
who jumped over cars
Germany 2010, Nick
Baker Monteys, 105 min.
A backpack is thrown
over a wall. Soon after, a
young, pale man named
Julian (Robert Stadlober)
is seen climbing the wall.
This is the beginning of
a very special odyssey.
Julian walks from Berlin
to the south of Germany,
in order to find healing
through walking. On his
way he meets Ju (Jessica Schwarz), a young
resident physician, who
is troubled after the death
a young patients, she
decides to join him. They
couldn’t be more different: He, a dreamer with a
12
g h a n a k e y. c o m
d The Rabbis Cat
In Algeria, in the 20s, the
rabbi Sfar worries about
his cat’s cleverness,
and how he could badly
influence his beautiful
daughter, Zlabya. After an
assignment from the colonial administration and
with the help of his cat,
the rabbi meets a strange
Russian painter on the
run. Alliance Française,
7pm
f Barbara Germany
2012 Christian Petzolds,
105 min. Set in 1980,
director Christian Petzolds
latest work centres on a
doctor (Nina Hoss) exiled
to a small town from East
Berlin as punishment
for applying for an exit
visa from the GDR (East
Germany). Planning to
flee for Denmark with
her boyfriend, Barbara
starts to lose control, over
herself, her plans and
over love. Free, Goethe
Institut, 7pm
; A Bottle in The Gaza
Sea After the kamikaze’s
explosion in a coffee shop
in her neighborhood, Tal
decides to write a letter to
an imaginary Palestinian,
in which she expresses
her questions and feelings. After putting the
letter inside a bottle and
throwing in the Gaza sea,
Tal receives a few weeks
later an answer from a
mysterious Gazaman.
Alliance Française, 7pm
February
3 Short Film Contest
(deadline Feb 3)
10 Ghanaian short films
will be selected to be
screened before each long
feature during the Accra
francophone film festival. The winners will be
rewarded with vouchers to
buy equipment. All films,
must be by a Ghanaian director, fiction, not
more than 12 minutes, in
English or submitted with
English subtitles if in local
language. For more information contact: stephanie.
soleansky@diplomatie.
gouv.fr
5 Le nom des gens
(The Names of Love)
Bahia Benmahmoud
doesn’t hesitate to use sex
as a weapon to influence
her ring-wing political opponents. Generally speaking, she gets very good
results, until she meets
Arthur Martin, a discreet
forty-year old man, and a
big fan of not taking risks.
She assumes that with a
name like that he must
be firmly right-wing. But
names are cunning and
appearances are deceptive. Alliance Française,
7pm
6 Love Comes Lately
Germany, Austria, USA
2007, Jan Schütte, 86
mins. Elderly Jewish writer Max Kohn (Otto Tausig)
an Austrian émigré whose
mind is constantly working
causing a state of perpetual confusion. Max has
several women interested
in seducing him, but he
spends most of his time
with fellow worrier Reisel
(Rhea Perlman). Free,
Goethe Institut, 7pm
e La Princesse de
Montpensier Mézières is
coerced by her father into
marrying the Prince of
Montpensier, although she
has loved Henri, Duke of
Guise, since her childhood. While her spouse
goes to war against the
Protestants, the young
Princess, who unsuccessfully tries to forget Henri,
becomes the focus of rival
and violent passions. Alliance Française, 7pm
It is the start of a long
voyage from Jerusalem to
Romania, during which
he will start learning more
about the employee’s life.
Alliance Française, 7 pm
a Halt Auf Freier
Strecke (Stopped on
track) Germany 2011,
Andreas Dresen, 110 min.
Forty-year-old healthy
Frank (Milian Peschel)
has been diagnosed with
an inoperable brain tumor
and suddenly condemned
to only a few months to
live. It’s a shock to a life
seemingly on track with
a steady job and a new
house in the suburbs.
But together Frank and
his family push through
with their daily life of work
and school. Free, Goethe
Institut, 7pm
p Le Voyage du directeur des ressources
humaines After the
unfortunate death of one
of his employees, the
Human-Resources Manager of the biggest bakery
of Jerusalem has to travel
to Romania with the body
of the deceased employee
in order to polish the image of his bakery and to
prevent a public-relations
disaster for this company.
Alliance Française Cine-club Liberation Link, Airport Area Tel: 0302 77 31 34 / afaccra.com
2Ghc / 1Ghc for AF students and members, Children under 12 free.
Goethe-Institut 30 Kakramadu Rd (next to NAFTI ) Cantonments Tel: 0302 779 769 / goethe.de
g h a n a k e y. c o m 1 3
events - festivals
events - Art
A rt
January
i Über Bibliotheksfest
at Goethe-Institut
After a many years of hard
work the library is finally
open to the public, come
share some cocktails in
our new library and celebrate its opening! Free,
Goethe Institut, 10am
made, organic, soaps,
garage sale/clearance
items, cheap books, CD’s/
DVD’s, new/used clothing,
crafts, beads, household
items, homemade foods
and more. For more information call Yasmeen H.
Nsiah at 026 4799 143.
Free, Goethe Institut, 10
am - 6pm
k-x Workshop for
Journalists Covering Art
& Cultural How to make
sure that the arts and cultural event stories make
the headlines in such a
highly politicized environment? The Goethe-Institut
is organizing a workshop/
training for Journalist
with a focus on print and
online reporters. with a
trainer from DW Academy.
Goethe Institut
3 Witness Témoin
Sammy Baloji and Monique Pelser were asked
by the Goethe Institut
South Africa to co-curate
a show showcasing the
work of six prominent
African photographers Sammy Baloji (DRC),
Calvin Dondo (Zimbabwe),
Sabelo Mlangeni (South
Africa), Abraham Oghobase (Nigeria), Monique
Pelser (South Africa)
and Michael Tsegaye
(Ethiopia).Témoin, translated as Witness, is an
exhibition representing
how these groups of
emerging African photographers perform the
role of active onlooker.
Each participant’s work
is evidence of a process
of critically surveying
their immediate environments. The presented
works then, by extension,
become historical records
reflecting a constantly
shifting history.
Goethe Institut, until
March 11
February
1 Eco-flea Market with
the Open Air Stock
Exchange
Every first Saturday of the
month. Test a very interesting blend of national
Ghanaian and international arts and crafts and
some exotic and local
culinaria! Buy/sell hand-
Witness/Témoin
Goethe-Institut 30 Kakramadu Rd (next to NAFTI ) Cantonments Tel: 0302 779 769 / goethe.de
14
g h a n a k e y. c o m
festivals
Festivals are very important in many ways,
historically, religiously, socially, economically &
culturally. This is a great opportunity to witness
Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.
January
Bugum Festival
Dagbon, Gonja, Mamprusi
and Nanumb
Jan 9
The fire festival (Bugum) is
observed by the Muslims to
mark the landing of prophet
Noah’s Ark after the flood.
It is celebrated in the night
with bundles of grass used
as torches. Non-Muslims
make offerings to their
ancestors and God, since
the festival marks the
beginning of a new year.
Edina Buronya Festival
Elmina, 1st week of Jan.
This is the native version
of Christmas which is
exclusively celebrated
by the people of Elmina
(Edina). The festival
was influenced by the
Portuguese settlers who
celebrated a similar event
every January. For the
people of Edina, it is a
period of purification,
sacrifices to the gods,
remembrance of the dead,
and the welcoming of a
new year. Families pour
libations and invite friends
to participate in dining, and
merry-making, throughout
the town.
Rice Festival
Is celebrated by the people
of Akpafu, in the Volta
Region.
Kpini-Kyiu & Tenghana
Festivals
Is celebrated by the people
of Wa & Tongu, in the
Upper East Region.
Danso Abaim & Ntoa
Fukokuese Festivals
Is celebrated by the people
of Techimentia & Nkoranza,
in the Brong Ahafo Region.
Apafram Festival
Is celebrated by the people
of Akwamu, in the Eastern
Region.
February
Papa Festival
Is celebrated by the people
of Kumawu, in the Ashanti
Region
Dzawuwu Festival
Is celebrated by the people
of Dabala, in the Volta
Region. It is an Annual
traditional and thanksgiving
festival of the Agave people.
g h a n a k e y. c o m 1 5
AD
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5
6
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INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT
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Bolgatanga
Alliance
Française
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Sirigu
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Nightclubs
Gbele Game
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Reserve
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Achimota
Abeka-Lopaz
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Wild Gecko
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Tetteh
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Achimoto Forest Reserve
(New Accra Zoo)
ACHIMOTA
EAST
LEGON
LIBERATION RD
AM
AW
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Accra
SOUTH
LEGON
Legon East Rd
Noguchi Memorial
Institute of Medical Research
1000 ft
500 m
4
Beyond Accra discover unique wildlife, historical monuments
and so much more.
Wildlife
Shai Hills Resource Reserve
The closest wildlife park
to Accra. The vegetation
of Shai Hills is dry, coastal
evergreen savannah and
40% of the park is made
up of hills covered with
dry forest. Major wildlife
to be seen include olive
baboons, green monkeys,
kobs and bushbucks, as
well as monitor lizards,
pythons and snakes. Bird
lovers will also find many
bird species including
the Senegal Parrot, Grey
Plantain Eater, Hornbill,
Red Northern Bishop and
Violet Turaco and many
more. Don’t miss a to visit
to one of the three caves,
Adwuku, Sayu or Hiewey
Mole National Park
Castles & forts
Cape Coast Castle
After the passage of
numerous foreign powers,
this castle became a British
possession in 1664. Millions
of slaves were shipped
to the Caribbean and the
United States through this
castle before becoming
the seat of British colonial
administration. The
cannons still face seaward,
stirring the imagination
to scenes of exploration,
discovery and great
tragedy. The Museum
of West African History,
describes the role that
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g h a n a k e y. c o m
these great structures
played in the slave trade.
areas for the human cargo
of the infamous slave trade.
Elmina castle
Fort St. Jago
Ten kilometers west of
Cape Coast Castle, Elmina
Castle is the earliest known
European structure in the
tropics. Built in 1482 by
the Portuguese during
early world exploration,
the castle was taken over
by the Dutch in 1637, who
retained control for 274
years. Inside the vast
fortification is the first
Catholic church in SubSahara Africa. The Castle’s
damp, unlit dungeons
served as horrific holding
Walking distance from
Elmina Castle, this fort
unlike others was not used
for trading activities but
provided military protection
to Elmina Castle. Be sure to
bring your camera since it
provides an excellent view.
Axim - Fort Santo Antonio
Built by the Portuguese
in 1515 and expanded
between 1642 and 1872 by
the Dutch. It is now run by
the Ghana Museums and
Monuments Board and is
Mole is about a 1 hour
drive from Tamale.
Tamale is about 600 km
from Accra (a 13 hour bus
ride, or a 1 hour 20 min
plane ride)
The largest of its kind
in Ghana. Its savannah
woodland and forested
areas cover a staggering
space which measures
just less than 5000 square
kilometers. You can
expect to see antelope,
elephants, baboons,
warthogs, buffalo,
hyenas and if you’re
very lucky, a leopard.
Lions have recently been
re-introduced to the park
as well. There are also
more than 250 species of
birds to enjoy. The park
has a simple motel with
a pool and restaurant
located directly above the
elephants’ bathing pond.
Owabi Forest Reserve and
Bird Sanctuary
15km from Kumasi
Winter home to a variety
of migratory birds as well
as tropical birds who
live there year round.
Also home to hundreds
of the endangered
Mona Monkeys. Further
to the northeast is
the Bomfobiri Wildlife
Sanctuary, containing the
spectacular Bomfobiri
Falls. The salt marshes of
the Songow Lagoon are
also worth seeing.
Lake Volta
At Akosombo Dam, board
the Yapei Queen ferry
and cruise up massive
Lake Volta on a 24-hour
trip past wooded hills
and farming villages and
into Ghana’s arid north,
docking at Yeji.
Amansuri wetland
90 km west of Takoradi
A complex of peat, swamp
and mangrove forests,
flood plains, and sandy
shores with streams,
rivers, a fresh water lake,
lagoons and the sea as
environmental features.
It is the largest intact
swamp forest in Ghana
a
cr
Ac e
nd lif
yo l d
Be Wi
beyond Accra
open to the public. Look
for the beautiful off-shore
islands and lighthouse.
and home to
many species of plants
and animals. Ninety-three
of these species made
up of reptiles, mammals
and birds are of global
and national conservation
interest.
Birding
Ghana Bird Walks
Join a monthly bird walk
on the last Saturday of
every month from 7am to
9am. The birding
site and meeting point
for each month will be
communicated.
Contact Samuel Temidayo
Tel: 0234237732
[email protected]
or Reuben Ottou
Tel: 0244 893 528
[email protected]
Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary
Located 30km from
Kumasi and about 25km
from Konogo, along the
Kumasi-Accra highway.
Tel: 024 646 5993,
A bewildering experience
as clouds of mud-puddling
Whites and Yellows
take flight as well as
Swallowtails and Pure
Gold or Red Gliders,
Mother-of-Pearls’. The
butterflies are plentiful.
There are also very
good guided tours of the
plants, explaining their
interesting commercial
and medicinal uses. The
guesthouse on site serves
basic food, and has a
pleasant staff.
g h a n a k e y. c o m
19
Entertainment
arts & culture
Goethe-Institut
30 Kakramadu Rd, Cantonments
Tel: 0302 779 769
4
Jokers
Labadi Road, La
Tel: 024 4370752
Not very far from La Beach, this is a very
popular place to play pool, tourists & locals
meet here to have a drink and a game.
5
Champs
next to Paloma Hotel, Kokolemle
Tel: (0) 240 959 406
Was Champs, then was Lexington now is
Champs again. Football, beer and pizza on
Wednesdays, Quiz night on Thursdays,
Karaoke on Fridays, Salsa on Saturdays.
Next Door Beach Resort
Beach Road, Teshie (opposite the
Military Academy)
Tel: 024 4318697
Firefly Lounge Bar
nightlife
Firefly Lounge Bar
11th Lane, Osu
Tel: 030 277 7818
8
Glammy and chic you would be forgiven to
think that you’ve arrived in a high-end New
York or London cocktail bar. Cool decor, metal
and exposed brick, extensive drink selection,
and DJs. Food is available.
2
Aphrodisiac
35 Osu Badu Street, Dzorwulu
Tel: 0302 766 738
DJs serve a mix of hip hop and R&B, hip life,
garage and techno. Ladies night on Thursdays.
Fridays DJ Flava Nite open from 11pm - 6am
3
+233 jazz bar & grill
75 Ring Rd, North Ridge
Tel: 0244 276 027
Ghana’s premiere jazz and live music club.
Open until 4 am on week-ends
6
Cuzzy Bro
Troas St, Osu
Tel: 026 608 6003
Formally known as the Irish Pub, this is
Ghana’s newest family venue, revamped with a
whole new menu, outdoor garden bar, cocktail
lounge and live entertainment.
Duplex
2nd Kuku close off oxford st, Osu
Definitely the most down to earth place you
will find.
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Live music on weekends, Sunday afternoons catch some traditional song and dance
performances.
The one2one Bar
Mövenpick Hotel, Central
A chic cocktail bar where you can escape,
socialize and launch your evening in style
to the sound of African lounge music or live
performances.
The Republic Bar & Grill
3rd Lane Kuku Hill, Osu
Tel: 024 631 4044
1
This place has quickly become the hot spot
in Accra. Like the every-week-kind-of-spot to
chill, catch up with friends, and listen to some
cool music over beer and food. They have live
music every Wednesday.
7
Robi’s Dutch Pub
Dade walkstreet 14, Labone
Tel: 0242201087
The only authentic Dutch pub in Ghana, with
Dutch cuisine, beer, music and ambiance.
film
Silverbird Cinema
First Floor, Shop 39, Accra Mall,
Tetteh Quashie Interchange
Tel: 021 823270-4
silverbirdghana.com
Regularly show films on Thursdays. www.
goethe.de
Drama / music
Alliance Française Accra
Liberation Link - Airport Residential
Tel: 0302 773 134
A large producer of cultural events in Accra,
including live music, poetry readings, theater,
art exhibits and much more, that reflect the
diversity and the quality of France and Africa’s
artistic offer. afaccra.com
National Theatre of Ghana
South Liberia Road, Central
Tel: 0244272884
This elegant and imposing theater is the hub
of music and theater in Accra. It houses The
National Symphony Orchestra, The National
Dance Company and The National Drama
Company. It is also a regular venue for Ghana’s
world acclaimed satirist Kwaku Sintim-Misa
popularly called KSM.
Nubuke
foundation
7 Adamafio Close, East Legon
Tel: 028 910 21 63
nubukefoundation.org
Enjoy programs ranging from drama and music
to art exhibitions, poetry, and films.
Art
Afia gallery
No. 2 Liberia Rd Ext, Osu
Tel: 0302 681465
Packed with local wood carvings and crafts.
afiavillage.com
Mankrato St, East Cantonments
Tel: 0243380668
herschelgallery.com
Kane Kwei Carpentry Workshop
Teshie First Junction
TEL: 0244 114719 / 5
Workshop of Seth Kane Kwei who invented
the famous design coffins in the 1950’s which
are carved into shapes that represent something
important and relevant to the deceased person,
such as a fish, airplanes, etc. Meet Eric Adjetey
Anang, grandson of Kane Kwei, and hear
stories about these fantastic coffins.
history
Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum &
Museum
High St., central
Tel: 233 671 610
An obligatory visit for history buffs. Dr.
Nkrumah serves as a loose approximation of
George Washington for Ghana. This museum is
an introduction to a complex personality. It is a
great source of information, including photos of
Nkrumah with a wide range of world leaders,
his books, his clothing, and artifacts.
National Museum of Ghana Accra
Barnes Rd, central
Tel: 021-221633
Established in 1957, this museum’s collection
ranges from pre-historic, archaeological
discoveries, to colonial antiquities and exhibits
of contemporary African art. Don’t miss the
outdoor sculpture garden. Open from 9am 5pm Tuesday through Sunday
W.E.B. Dubois Center
2nd circular Rd, Cantonments
This is the home, library and final resting place
of American-born crusader for social justice,
William Edward Burghardt DuBois.
Artists Alliance Gallery
Omanye House. Beach Rd, La before
LaPalm Hotel
Tel: 0245251404
A fantastic African modern art gallery located
right on the coast. The gallery is huge and
more museum-like; three floors of fabric,
paintings, sculptures, and odds and ends like
coins and games.
Hershel Gallery
g h a n a k e y. c o m
21
dining
dining
out of a bowl on the side
of the road to sit down
spots with full kitchens.
Here are few that we
recommend:
Asanka Local
18th lane
Tel: 0302786328
This is good place to
go if you are looking
for a local experience.
Find delicacies like
Banku, fufu, soups,
chicken etc. osu
La Tante DC 10 Restaurant
African
Tel: 0302 768 64
Ghanaian
Village
Restaurant
La Palm Royal
Beach Hotel
No 5 La Bypass Rd
Tel: 0302 215100
Maquis Tante
Marie
5th Norla Link
Tel: 0244612832
La
Buka
10th Lane
Tel: 030 2782953
osu
Christine’s
Unique Café
150m off Ring Rd
at Nima Junction
Tel: 0302 222 265
Chez Afrique
Near Yemoh
Plaza
Tel: 030 2911591
East Legon
Country
kitchen
2nd Ringway
Estates
Tel: 0302229107
Osu
Le Grand
Ecuyer
Ring Road,
just west of
Danquah Circle
22
g h a n a k e y. c o m
maquistantemarie.com
Labone
Next Door
Restaurant
Beach Rd (op.
the Military
Academy)
Tel: 024-4318697
next-door.com Teshie
Old Bob’s Place
Niger Hse,
59 Okadan
Tel: 028 8266378
Osu
The Orangery
Crepe
& salad bar
Farrar Ave
Tel: 030 2232988
Adabraka
papaye
Cantonments Rd
Near MTN store
Tel: 030 2773754
Osu
chop bars
Chop Bars range from
a woman serving dishes
Auntie Muni
Waakye
off Josiah
Tongogari St &
orphan cres.,
TEL: 233246980070
Though it looks like
little more than a
roadside stand Aunti
Muni’s is one of the
most popular spots
for weekend Wakeye.
Cantonments
Peace Palace
off of 6th st
accross ecobank
osu
seafood
Captain Hooks
4 Kakramandu St
Tel: 0302762228
Cantonments
fast food
Barcelos
Op. Dynasty
Chinese
Tel: 030 2933784
Osu
ASian
Royal Dragon
Chinese
Restaurant
La Palm Royal
Beach Hotel
No 5 La Bypass Rd
Tel: 0302 215100
La
Dynasty
restaurant
Oxford St
Tel: 030 2775496
Osu
Nobel House
Kuku Hill, Salem Rd
Tel: 0302785151
Osu
Zion Thai
Restaurant
Okodan &
mission St
Papaye Down
Tel: 054-996-7644
Try spicy penang
curry, true pad thai,
and lots of vegetarian
options. Afterwards,
enjoy a sweetened
Thai iced tea. Osu
Padthai
Restaurant
10 Monrovia Rd
Tel: 0302962788
East Legon
italian
Arlecchino
674 Oxford St
Tel: 0245 410 403
Osu
Osu
Chicken
Republic
Cantonments Rd
south of Papaye
Tel: 030 2775496
Bella Roma
Fourth Lane
Tel: 024 74 74 007
Osu
KFC
Cantonments Rd
Osu
Eddy’s Pizza
66 Ring Road
Tel: 54 413 3397
central
Il Cavaliere
Pezzo
Accra Polo
Grounds
Tel: 0302 823131
Airport Res
Mama mia
Pizzeria
7th Lane
Tel: 0244 264 151
Osu
Osteria Michelangelos
House No.3
Nortei Abadio St
Tel: 024 4233533
Airport Res
Picasso
Crown
Apartamento
Premises
Tel: 0302771712
Airport Res
The Venue
Adamafio link
Tel: 024 3323425
East Legon
indian
Heritage indian
off Salem Rd
Noble Chinese
Restaurant Bldg
Tel: 0302785151
Osu
Koh-I-Noor
Grisfarm Hotel
off First
Tel: 030 2771999
Osu
Le Magellan
Restaurant
Ring Road East
at Labone
Junction
Tel: 0302 777 629
Also serves French
food. Osu
western
Bus Stop Bar
& Restaurant
Tel: 0302220930
Adabraka
The Lexington
next to the
Paloma Hotel in
the Kokolemle
neighbourhood
Tel: 0240 959 406
Serves deep fried brie,
bruschetta, burgers,
pulled pork.
White Bell
Cnr Farrar Av
Adabraka
Tel: 0302227066
Frankies
Cantonments Rd
Tel: 0302 77 35 67
Osu
Little Indian
Sunshine Salad
Bar
11th Lane
Tel: 030 2780599
Osu
Sankofa
Restaurant
Mövenpick Hotel
Tel: 0302611000
Tandoor Indian
near Land Tours
Tel:0243 151 417
central
Labone
El gaucho
Abrebrensem
Tel: 0289117575
lebanese
spanish
Basha
Kojo Thompson Rd
Niagara Hotel
Osu
Adabraka
honeysuckle
British
Behind Barclays
Tel: 026 777 3121
bar
Ring Rd
Tel: 030 2780774
Seafood-grill, cocktail
bar & cigar lounge,
sushi/teppanyaki bar
[email protected]
Osu
Cuzzy Bro
Troas St
Tel: 026 608 6003
French
Monsoon
41 Oxford St Osu
above Osu Food
Court
Tel: 030 2782307
La Chaumiere
215 Liberation Rd
Cafe
Osu
Tel: 0302772408
Sophisticated French
dishes have been
delighting Accra for
more than a decade.
Airport Res
Café Chez Des
Amis
Liberation Rd,
Across from
French Embassy
North Labone
Nicolino
Alliance Française
s Liberation Link
Tel: 024 462 9656
Le Tandem
6 Mankralo St
Tel: 030 2762959
Livingstone
Safari
near Akai
House
across from
Kohinoor
Tel: 024
6485135
Tel: 030 2773412
Airport Res
‘N’ café
Nubuke
Foundation,
TEl: 028 910 21 63
EAST LEGON
brunch
Le Must
No 28, Orphan
Crescent
Tel: 0244661069
Airport Res
Josie’s Cuppa
Cappuccino
3rd Close,
melting moments
No. 78/5, 1st
Norla St
Tel: 0302770834
Labone
Labadi Beach
Hotel
No.1 La Bypass
Tel: 030 277 2501/6
La
La Palm
Royal Beach
Hotel
Osu
Japanese
3121 Sushi
14th Lane
La Chaumiere
g h a n a k e y. c o m
23
shopping
shopping
markets
Jewelry
Makola Market
Kojo Thompson Rd
Pmmc
Mark Cofie Building
Tel: 233 (0)302664579
Dominated by women this bustling market of
Accra is situated right in the center of the city.
There you will find: jewelry, fabrics, plastic hair
decorations, traditional Ghanaian glass beads,
batiks, wigs, bags, shoes, toiletries, as well as
shea butter, fish, beans, meat, vegetables, fruit,
flour, eggs, pots & pans, grills and much more.
Find diamonds and gold directly from local
small-scale miners . Find a variety of jewelry we
especially love the unique jewelry representing
traditional Ghanaian symbols. pmmcghana.com
central
Malata Market
Elephant Walk Rd
malls
Accra Mall
Spintex Rd, Tetteh Quarshie
Interchange
accramall.com Airport Area
supermarkets
Koala Supermarket
Off Danquah Circle at Cantonments Rd
Tel: 0302773455
Excellent assortment of local and imported
goods; bread selection is highly recommended.
Carries Cottage Farms frozen pork.
koalashop.com.gh Osu
shoprite
Accra Mall
Tel: 0302823020 Airport Area
crafts
Centre for National Culture
28th February Rd
Tel: 021 664099
A sea of stalls selling arts and crafts. It is also
referred to as the Arts Centre. This is the
place to shop in Accra for crafts. The level of
aggressive hassling may discourage you but if
24
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Pure cotton fabric with a subtle mix of elegance
and color. Osu
Kiki clothing
Accra Mall
Tel: 020 817 4362
Unique ethnic designs for children and adults.
Airport Area
Inka
La Crescent
TEl: 233 20 030 8618
central
If you want a true local market experience, you’ll
find it here. No tourists, no African masks,
no tourist handcrafts, but you will have the
opportunity to eat some authentic Ghanian fare
DA viva Boutique
17th Lane
Tel: 0289529770
Exquisite hand crafted African jewellery
Osu Nyaniba Estate
Ohema Ohene opens her first shop at Nubuke Foundation.
you have the patience you can come away with
good-quality handicrafts from all over Ghana.
central
Loom
117 Kwame Nkrumah Ave
Tel: 0302224746
Sells spectacular paintings as well as
woodcarvings, fabrics and statues. central
Global Mamas
14th Lane
Near Koala Supermarket
Tel: 24 453 0467
globalmamas.org Osu
Wild Gecko Handicrafts
Near Tetteh Quarshie exchange
Tel: 030 250 8500
Unique handcrafted furniture, household
decorations, accessories & jewelry.
www.wild-gecko.com Cantonments
Woodwork
ABURI CARVING CENTer
Akwapim Ridge On the way to the
Aburi town center
Here craftmen can be seen at work on
magnificent carvings and drums which are
available for purchase. If you are feeling
creative, you can actually design your own
piece. ABURI
modern Art
Artists Alliance
Omanye House
Tel: 0245251404
A fantastic African modern art gallery located
on the coast. Packed with artistic expression.
Three floors of art, sculpture, carvings and
artifacts. The best part is that most of it is for
sale. artistsallianz.com LA
bookstores
Silverbird bookstore
Accra Mall
Tel: 030 282 3270-5
Current fiction, nonfiction, business and
religious books. Airport Area
University Bookshop
University of Ghana Legon
Tel: 0302 500398
Current fiction, nonfiction & textbooks. Great
if you are looking for books by local
authors. Legon
Winglow
13 Mensa Wood Street
Tel: 0302510321
Exclusive embroidered wear for women and
men. Western styled clothing in African print.
Interior decoration utilizing a blend of African
and other fabrics.
www.winglow.com East Legon
Aya Morrison
23 Nii Bonnie Crescent
Tel: 0302 956 355
Handbags, African print swimsuits & accessories
Dzorwolu
ajePomaa Design Gallery
No.8 Addo Close
TEl: 026 564 5284
For gorgeous clothes East Legon
Ohema Ohene SHOP
Nubuke Foundation,
7 Adamafio Close
TEl: 233 (28) 910 21 63
Higher
East Legon
Link
Higher Link
For fast and easy customs
clearing and forwarding
fabric & fashion
Located at the aviance cargo village
Woodin Boutique
Oxford St
Tel: 0302764371
Priscilla: (233) 244145647
Joe: (233) 240066188.
White: (233) 233540898759
John: (233) 245045033
A temple of high fashion fabrics. 14 artists
create ever changing designs. Osu
g h a n a k e y. c o m
25
accommodations
accommodations
resorts
4
Labadi Beach Hotel
No.1 La Bypass, Accra
Tel: +233 (30) 277 2501/6
[email protected]
Beautiful and well maintained. Includes a
health club, an outdoor pool, a fitness facility,
and a children’s pool, a business center, small
meeting rooms, and secretarial services. la
La Palm Royal Beach Hotel
5 La Bypass
Tel: 233 30221 5100/5111
gbhghana.net
3
Featuring 152 rooms, each with its own private
balcony, laid out in chalet fashion, creating the
feeling of a village complete with 8 bars and
restaurants, large swimming pool, souvenir
shops, fitness center & casino. la
Luxury
The African Regent
237-238 Airport West,
Tel: 233 302765180
5
A refreshing taste of Africa in a classy
establishment. Enjoy an enviable collection of
African Art. A spa, a health club, outdoor pool,
a fitness facility, wireless Internet in public
areas. Cantonments
The Aknac Hotel
Trasacco Valley
Tel: 233 302824235
theaknachotel.com
In the peaceful suburbs of Accra near Trasacco
Valley within easy reach of the city centre.
This boutique hotel offers style, charm and
personal service. Includes a restaurant, bars and
an outdoor pool. Complimentary breakfast and
wireless internet access.
The Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel
Independence Ave, Ridge
Tel: +233 302611000
moevenpick.com
1
Ideally located in the central business district
of downtown Accra, close to major financial
institutions, the International Conference Centre
26
g h a n a k e y. c o m
Starlite Lodge
No 2 Volta River Ave. Teshi-Nungua
Estates
Tel: 233 302 712829
starlitelodge-ghana.com
and government ministries. The Hotel has 260
rooms include 61 Executive Club Rooms, 15
Junior Suites with balconies and view of the
Swimming Pool, one Ambassador Suite & a
320sqm Presidential Suite.
w
from $20 w/ breakfast
Pink Hostel
Tel: 233-302-256710/256712
[email protected] Asylum Down
8
Villa Monticello
No.1A Mankata Ave Link Airport
Residential
Tel: 233 302773477
villamonticello.com
A boutique hotel in the heart of Accra with
beautifully designed themed rooms - the
Marrakech suite is our favorite. Restaurant,
outdoor pool, full-service spa, bar/lounge.
Televisions with digital channels.
moderate
Afia African Village $65-170
2 Liberia Road Osu
Tel: 233 302681465
afiavillage.com
2
Afia African Village is sensitively designed to
take full advantage of the expansive ocean views
and cooling sea breezes. Its traditionally styled
architecture evokes the very essence of Africa.
Singles, doubles and family suites. Breakfast
included.
Bojo Beach Resort $160-270
Off the Old Weija Barrier
Tel: 233.302.912.946
bojobeachresort.com
With 35 guestrooms and suites, this retreat in
the suburbs of Accra is perfect if you are looking
to be in the city but enjoy the privacy and
luxury of being far away. Enjoy the ocean and
mountain views as well as high speed wireless
internet.
Kokrobite
Hillburi Aburi $150
Gyankama
Tel: 0244385008
www.hillburi.com
Blending modern style with strong colonial and
African influences, lovely comfortable king size
beds, fluffy duvets and pillows and thick towels,
spectacular views overlooking the surrounding
from $20 (with continental breakfast)
Bedua Home Suites $40-60
Tel: 233-241-234-234
NO 58 Genesis Estates at Mariville off
Spintex Road in a gated community
Villa Monticello
hills. Includes a bar, restaurant, infinity
swimming pool. Aburi
Mahogany Lodge $175-195
No. 9, Kakramadu Link
Tel: 233-302-761162
mahoganylodge.com
q
A very pretty courtyard with pool. Two
computers with free wireless.
East Cantonments
Bed & breakfast
Spintex Inn $60
#1 Fourth Nii Kwaofio Link, Spintex
Tel: 0207768243
spintexinn.com Spintex
Budget
Blue Royal Hotel $69-$129
No 36. 18th lane off Cantoment Rd
Tel: (0)302) 783075
blueroyalghana.com Osu
New Ampax Hotel $20-40
Achimota Rd. Pokuake Junction
Tel: (0)302-932158
ampaxhotelgh.com Asylum Down
9
Frankies
Cantonments rd.
Tel: 0302 77 35 67
[email protected] Osu
huts & cottages
Big Milly’s Back Yard GHc17-125
Tel: 0249 999 330 or 0262 999 330
www.bigmilly.com
Twenty rooms, all have fans and are beautifully
decorated with African art. Double huts are
of local clay bricks with thatched roofs. Most
cottages are self contained. Several have A/C. 150
trees and a large menagerie of pets in the garden.
Entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights.
Kokrobite
holiday rentals
Legassi Gardens Apartments
ADDIS AVENUE,POKUASE JUNCTION,
NEAR ACP ESTATES JUNCTION
Tel: 233 277 522229
[email protected]
Furnished and serviced apartments, in serene
garden setting. Listen to our many birds, watch
our garden butterflies, and play a game of Oware
under the palm frond canopy! Convenience /craft
store on-site & vegetarian café.
r
La-Paradise Inn
Tel: 233 302 762085
4th Ostwe Street South La Estate
In the heart of vibrant Osu area, these apartments
are surrounded by a diverse array of shops and
restaurants. Each apartment has a modern living
space, internet access and satellite t.v. Outside
enjoy the swimming pool and the tropical
garden. la
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transportation
Domestic Air:
Antrak Air
Tel: (233) (0) 302 765377, 765378
antrakair.com
Wholly Ghanaian owned has flights to Kumasi,
Takoradi, Sunyani, Tamale and Wa.
Fly 540
Tel: (233) (0) 202 250 208
fly540africa.com
Offers internal flights to several locations
around Ghana. They fly from Accra to Kumasi,
Takoradi, Tamale and Sunyani.
Buses:
STC (State Transport Corporation)
Tel: (233-21) 221-912 or 252-835 or 221-314
The main, government owned and operated,
intercity coaches. You should buy the tickets
in advance so that you are given an assigned
seat. Buses from Accra to Tamale leave daily
at 7am and 3pm, a 9 am bus continues on to
Bolgatanga. Buses from Tamale to Accra run
daily at 6.30am and 4pm, Kumasi at 7am
(10am weekends). A service from Tamale to
Takoradi runs twice a week, at 8am on Tuesdays
and 3pm on Saturday.
VIP
Tel: 0544357030, 0544357038
[email protected]
Air conditioned clean buses to Kumasi. There
are two levels of bus – one with larger seats
and more leg room for marginally more money.
Buses run frequently all day and night. A good
alternative for a long drive.
OA Travel and Tours
Tel: 0243-3177620
Tamale: 0242-767694 / 0208-083644
Kumasi: 03220-41925
200m from STC station in Accra, OA offers
very new buses for a reasonable price. Leaving
at 3pm daily from Bolgatanga to Accra,
GHc30.00. It leaves Tamale to Accra daily
at 5pm, for GHc25.00. Booking tickets in
advance is recommended.
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Car Rentals:
Atlas Rent-A-Car
Tel: 024 427 7871
ghana-car-rentals.com
Tel: 0.264.264.246
ghana-car-rentals.com
A one-stop-shop for online car hire in Ghana.
With a wide selection of vehicles for personal as
well as business car rental needs.
3
top
Tamale
Located in the northern part
of the country, it is like a
conglomeration of villages where
one can find an architectural
blend of traditional mud houses
1 Central Mosque
The most impressve
building in the whole
of Tamale definitely is
the Central mosque that
is visible from almost
everywhere in the city’s
center. Outside of the
praying hours you are
welcome to visit the
mosque at any time. It is
possible to even enter the
narrow corridor inside the
dome, the highest point
of the mosque. From the
second floor you can get
a great view of the city.
2 village behind
asmepe Lodge
Visit authentic village
where you will see how
people in these villages
go about their daily lives.
You will see women pick
the green fruit of the
shea nut tree –to create
shea butter that has a
multiplicity of traditional
uses, from healing to
cooking daily stews.
3 Center for
National Culture
Check out the stalls
around the Center for
National Culture, it is
just as good as most arts
and crafts markets, there
you can find local crafts,
cloth and beads. The busy
market is also a good
place to have a drink and
play ping pong or pool.
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4 central Market
Another must-see in
Tamale is the central
market, in the heart of
town. On the outside of
the market you will find
bigger items ranging
from bicycles to coffins.
Inside find dried fish, rice,
pigheads, cowlegs, and
also fresh vegetables,
spices, typical Ghanaian
red oil and lots of
delicious fruit. Along
with food you will find a
lot of kitchen gear and
colorful cloth. The best
way to see it and to find
something is just to start
wandering around.
elmina
Rich in history this town is
home to some of the oldest castles
and forts in West Africa.
1 Elmina Castle
Was erected by Portugal
in 1482. It is the oldest
European building in
existence below the
Sahara. First established
as a trade settlement, it
later became one of the
most important stops on
the route of the Atlantic
slave trade.
2 Elmina Lagoon
Elmina Lagoon provides
the pulse of the fishing
village that surrounds
it. With an overflow of
activity as people go
ADa Foah
A small town east of Accra where
the Volta River and the sea join to
create a unique ecosystem.
How to get there:
Antrak flies between Tamale
and Accra (US $144, 1¼
hours). From the STC station,
two buses a day go to
Kumasi (US $10, six hours)
and four a day depart for
Accra (ordinary/luxury US
$10/16, 12 hours). There’s
also a Tuesday service to
Cape Coast and Takoradi
(US$11, 12 hours).
1 Volta river
Estuary
Here the sea and the river
join creating big waves.
You will also find a
wildlife paradise: marine
turtles, birds, crocodiles,
monkeys and in the
salty parts mangrove
about their daily routine,
in this case setting out to
sea to catch fish in a wide
array of colorful boats.
vegetation. This unique
ecosystem makes it ideal
conditions for sailing,
canoeing, fishing, water
skiing, wake boarding.
2 ADa Foah Beach
Long, sandy beaches
with coconut trees and
How to get there:
Cape Coast STC Station,
Pedu Junction Goil
Filling Station
Tel: 0332196811
fishermen with their
boats and nets, you will
be challenged with the
decision of where to
swim first – the calm and
shallow river or the wild,
wavy ocean.
How to get there:
Regular Tro-Tros
connection (1 1/2 to 2
1/2 hours, about 120 km)
from Tudu Station
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