Africa has always attracted artists, dreamers and adventurers, and it still does. What has changed, however, is that the most common destinations of choice are no longer just South Africa and Kenya, and all eyes are on Ghana now, while it is developing its tourism infrastructure and becoming an increasingly popular destination. That, however, is not strange, because Ghana is finally gaining the popularity it deserved long ago. With its stunning coastline, dense forest, amazing wildlife and overall astonishing beauty, this African country is a perfect destination for all travelers. Let us see what else Ghana has to offer to earn its new title of a new hotbed of tourism.
Tourism Infrastructure
Tourism has become a significant contributor to the economic growth in Ghana. It is a major source of employment, foreign exchange and government revenues. The country possesses diverse tourism assets, a reasonably organized infrastructure and the renowned Ghanaian hospitality. There are opportunities for further development of cultural and heritage, eco-, leisure, beach resort and conference tourism. Travel and tourism establishments include hotels, restaurants, car rentals, tourist shops and tour operators.
The Accommodation and Getting Around
There are many hotels/hostels in Ghana, from luxury resorts to backpacker-appropriate affordable accommodations. Still, finding and booking the right place for yourself can be a bit tricky, because you can face the potential danger of being ripped-off or stood up. Finding a reliable middle-man agency, such as meqasa.com will keep you away from such jeopardy. As for getting around the country, transport means are busses, cars and bikes. Renting a car is a wise decision if you are traveling long distances, but in most cases you can get by with public transport.
The Heritage
Ghana is a country with very rich, exciting, yet dark history. Across the country, there are many historical sites which will tell the story of this African nation in a way close and meaningful to everyone. Cape Coast is one of the places to go in Ghana, if you aim to enrich your knowledge. There, you can visit Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, both of them former slave castles. You can take a guided slave trade tour to learn more about this unfortunate time in the history of Ghana. Across the country, you can see more than 30 heritage castles and in the capital, Accra, you can see amazing artifacts and exhibits if you visit the National Museum.
The Culture and Art
The welcoming culture of Ghana is all you need to fall forever in love with this sublime destination. Everything is very different from the uptight western cities, and you can see people dancing in the middle of the street, wearing handmade colorful baroque patterned clothing. Streets and markets are filled with upbeat music, handcrafted items and delicious food. Markets are an experience by themselves, because they offer a unique insight into the bursting life of Ghanaian cities. Art scene is fascinating, and not just inside the galleries. Street art in the cities, especially in the enchanting Accra, can leave anyone breathless.
The Beaches
Ghana is the home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. One of the most popular stretches of sand is Labadi Pleasure Beach in Accra, a site bursting with numerous activities, such as Frisbee and beach volleyball. A well-known backpacker location is the village Kokrobite, which reflects an out-of-this-world hippie vibe. Cocoloco beach, on the other hand, is perfect for a more serene vacation and wildlife exploration.
The Nature
Ghana has several amazing national parks, like the Kakum National Park, Mole National Park and Bia National Park. Mole National Park is home to a wide array of wildlife, such as lions, elephants, buffalos, antelopes, monkeys, and various exotic bird species. At Kakum National Park visitors can get the experience of walking over a shaky 40-meter (131-foot) high canopy bridge in an evergreen rainforest. A biosphere reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bia National Park has more than 60 mammal species and more than 160 bird species. Also, West Africa’s tallest waterfalls, Wli-Waterfalls, are located in the Volta Region in Ghana.
We are witnessing the ascension of Ghana on the tourism throne which rightfully belongs to this country. All the things this West African gem has to offer to tourists are too precious to be ignored. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book a ticket and go see Ghana.
Author bio:
Oliver Hyde is an experienced business consultant from the UK. His job allows him to travel, which also happens to be one of his greatest passions. Being a wanderer, he rarely stays at the same place for a long time, but Africa stole his heart. He had been travelling through the continent for more than a year. You can follow his travel adventures on Twitter.