Top 10 Most Visited Tourist Destinations in Ghana Have you ever wondered which tourist destinations in Ghana attract the most visitors? According to DIhGh (YOREs), 2019, these are the 10 most visited tourist destinations in Ghana.
1.Cape Coast Castle(25%)
Formerly called “Cabo Corso” by the Portuguese, meaning “short cape,” the name later evolved into Cape Coast. Cape Coast Castle served as one of the major slave trade forts along the West African coast and was used as a holding point for enslaved Africans before their forced journey to the Americas. Today, it stands as a powerful historical museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving the painful legacy of the transatlantic slave trade while educating visitors about Ghana’s history.
2.Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum (14%) Also known as the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, this site is dedicated to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President and a key figure in African independence. The museum serves as his final resting place and displays personal belongings, documents, and historical artifacts that highlight his legacy and leadership.
3.Elmina Castle(13%) Built originally by the Portuguese in 1482, Elmina Castle is one of the oldest European buildings in sub-Saharan Africa. Like Cape Coast Castle, it played a major role in the transatlantic slave trade and later changed hands between the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. It remains a significant historical landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4.Kakum National Park(10%) Located in Ghana’s Central Region, about 1.5 hours from Accra, Kakum National Park is one of the country’s most famous eco-tourism destinations. It is well known for its canopy walkway—suspended bridges high above the rainforest floor—offering visitors a thrilling view of the forest ecosystem. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, bird species, and nature trails.
5.Black Star Square(9%) Also known as Independence Square, this landmark is located in the heart of Accra. It was commissioned by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah in 1961 and is used for national celebrations, including Ghana’s Independence Day parade on March 6th. It remains a symbol of national pride and unity.
6.Centre for National Culture (Arts Centre)
(7%) Located near the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, the Arts Centre is one of the best places in Accra to buy local crafts and souvenirs. Visitors can shop for kente cloth, beads, carvings, paintings, and handmade artifacts. It is a vibrant cultural marketplace, though visitors should be mindful of persistent vendors at the entrance.
7.W.E.B. Du Bois Center(6%) This historic site was the residence and final resting place of W.E.B. Du Bois, a prominent Pan-African scholar and civil rights activist. The center includes a museum, research library, and mausoleum, making it an important educational and cultural site in Ghana.
8.Labadi Beach(6%) Labadi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ghana, especially during weekends and holidays. It offers live music, horse riding, beach parties, food vendors, and nightlife activities. An entrance fee is required for access.
9.Afrochella(5%) Afrochella is a vibrant annual celebration of African culture, creativity, music, and entrepreneurship. Held in December, it attracts both local and international visitors who come to experience fashion, art, food, and live performances.
10.Aburi Botanical Gardens
(5%) Established in 1890, the Aburi Botanical Gardens is one of Ghana’s oldest and most peaceful natural attractions. It was originally created for plant conservation and research, and today it serves as a relaxing getaway filled with exotic plants, tall trees, and scenic landscapes. Ghana is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From powerful historical landmarks like Cape Coast and Elmina Castles to relaxing destinations like Aburi Gardens and Labadi Beach, each site tells a unique story worth experiencing.
