Kakum National Park is one of the most exciting and beautiful places in Ghana. Located in the Central Region, this park is a huge, protected forest that is home to amazing animals, plants, and trees. It’s the perfect place for anyone who loves nature and wants to explore the wild side of Ghana.
The park covers about 375 square kilometers, and it’s famous for being one of the few rainforests left in West Africa. It was set up in 1992 to help protect the forest and all the living things in it. In fact, Kakum is so important that it is recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, which means it is a special place for both the environment and the people who live there.
One of the most exciting things you can do in Kakum National Park is walk on the Canopy Walkway. This is a long bridge made of wood and ropes that is built high up in the trees. It’s like walking on a tightrope between the tall trees, and it sways gently in the breeze as you walk. From here, you can look down and see the rainforest below you – it feels like you’re flying among the trees!
But the park isn’t just about the canopy. Down below in the forest, there’s even more to see. The park is full of wild animals, like monkeys, butterflies, and sometimes even big forest elephants! You can also see lots of trees and plants that are used by the local people for food and medicine.
There are guided walks through the forest, where local guides, who are friendly and knowledgeable, will show you how the plants and animals in the park are connected. They’ll tell you stories about the forest and how important it is to take care of nature.
Kakum National Park is a special place where you can feel like you’re in the middle of a wild adventure. Whether you’re walking high above the forest on the canopy walkway or exploring the jungle below, you’ll have a chance to see and learn about nature in a way that few places can offer.
The Canopy Walkway: A Thrilling Adventure
One of the most exciting things to do in Kakum National Park is walking on the Canopy Walkway. Imagine walking high above the ground, between tall trees, with the forest stretching out all around you. That’s exactly what you get when you step onto the walkway!
The Canopy Walkway is a series of hanging bridges built between tall trees in the forest. It’s about 350 meters long and hangs as high as 40 meters above the ground. As you walk across, you can look down and see the beautiful green forest below. It’s like being on top of the world!
Walking on the canopy gives you a bird’s-eye view of the forest. You’ll get to see tall trees, lush greenery, and sometimes even wild animals like monkeys or colorful birds flying by. The walkway sways a little in the wind, which makes the experience even more thrilling!
If you’re feeling a bit nervous about walking so high up, don’t worry! The bridges are very safe, and they are carefully maintained. The park rangers will also be there to guide you and make sure everything goes smoothly.
The Canopy Walkway is an adventure for everyone. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just someone who enjoys nature, it’s a great way to experience the forest in a new and exciting way.
Wildlife Encounters: Meet the Rainforest Inhabitants
Kakum National Park is not just about beautiful trees and amazing views – it’s also home to some really cool animals that live in the rainforest. If you’re lucky, you might get to meet some of them during your adventure! Let’s take a closer look at the fascinating wildlife you could encounter.
1. The Playful Monkeys
One of the best parts of visiting Kakum National Park is seeing the monkeys that live there. There are different species of monkeys that swing through the trees, and watching them can be really fun!
- Green Monkeys: These monkeys are known for their bright green fur on their backs and golden faces. They live in groups and often play together, swinging and jumping from one tree to another. They’re pretty quick and love to leap from branch to branch.
- Mona Monkeys: These are another type of monkey you might see. They have short tails and long faces with dark fur. Mona monkeys usually live in the upper parts of the trees and can be spotted during your walk if you’re quiet and observant.
When you’re walking through the park, keep your eyes on the treetops. The monkeys are often above you, and you can hear them chattering and laughing as they move around. If you’re lucky, you may even see them up close!
2. Colorful Birds of the Rainforest
Kakum National Park is also a paradise for bird lovers! The rainforest is home to many different species of birds, and if you keep a lookout, you might be able to spot some of them.
- Hornbills: These big birds have large, colorful bills and are often seen flying high above the trees. They’re hard to miss because of their size and the sound they make when they fly through the forest.
- Parrots: The colorful parrots in Kakum are a sight to see. With their bright feathers and squawking calls, they add a splash of color to the greenery. If you’re quiet enough, you might spot one sitting on a branch, munching on fruits or nuts.
- Pigeons and Doves: There are also smaller birds, like pigeons and doves, that you can spot around the park. They like to perch on the branches, and their gentle cooing can be heard as they fly around.
You’ll hear the birds before you see them. Their songs fill the air and make the park feel alive with sound. Take your time to sit quietly and listen to their beautiful melodies – it’s a calming experience!
3. The Forest Elephants
While the forest elephants of Kakum National Park are a bit harder to find, they are one of the most exciting animals you could see. These elephants are smaller than the ones you might see in other parts of Africa, but they are still incredibly impressive.
- Forest Elephants: These elephants have smaller ears compared to their savannah relatives, and they are covered in more hair. They live deep in the rainforest, and they play a very important role in shaping the environment. Forest elephants help to maintain the forest by eating fruit and plants, which helps to spread seeds and keep the trees healthy.
Spotting a forest elephant is very rare, but if you’re lucky enough to see one, it’s an unforgettable moment. They are gentle giants, and they often move silently through the forest, making it difficult to notice them.
4. The Night Shift: Bats, Frogs, and Insects
While you’re exploring Kakum, you might come across some of the night animals that only come out after dark. When the sun starts to set, the forest becomes home to all kinds of fascinating creatures.
- Bats: Kakum is home to several species of bats that hang out in the trees or fly through the air at night. Some bats are very small, while others are much larger. They help control the insect population, eating up moths and mosquitoes.
- Frogs: During the rainy season, you can hear frogs croaking as they come out of hiding. The sounds they make are part of the symphony of nighttime noise in the forest. They come in different shapes and colors, and they’re an important part of the ecosystem.
- Insects: Kakum is full of interesting insects. You might see colorful butterflies fluttering through the air, or hear the buzz of beetles and other bugs in the undergrowth. Some insects are very small, while others are larger and more noticeable. They play an important role in keeping the rainforest balanced by pollinating plants and serving as food for other animals.
5. Smaller Creatures: Lizards and Snakes
Kakum National Park is home to some smaller animals that are just as important to the rainforest’s ecosystem.
- Lizards: You might spot geckos or other types of lizards sunbathing on the rocks or tree trunks. They are fast and usually hide quickly, but if you’re patient, you can watch them catch insects to eat.
- Snakes: There are some non-poisonous snakes in Kakum, but they are usually very shy. Most of them prefer to stay hidden in the underbrush. If you’re walking carefully along the trail, you might catch a glimpse of one slithering quietly through the leaves.
Exploring the Kakum Forest Floor
While the Canopy Walkway offers an exciting view from above, the real magic of Kakum National Park comes alive when your feet touch the forest floor. Beneath the towering trees, there’s a peaceful, shaded world filled with interesting plants, animal tracks, and the earthy smell of nature. If you’re someone who loves to take things slow and truly connect with nature, the forest trails at Kakum are where your adventure begins.
1. Guided Nature Walks
Walking through the forest with a trained guide makes the experience even more special. These guides know the forest inside out – the names of plants, the sounds of animals, and even the signs that animals leave behind.
- They’ll point out animal tracks, nests, or burrows that you might miss on your own.
- Guides also tell stories and facts about how the local people use the forest – from medicinal plants to ancient traditions.
- You’ll also learn how the rainforest supports life for both people and wildlife in Ghana.
These walks are usually slow-paced, giving you time to breathe, look around, and ask questions. It’s not about speed – it’s about soaking up the experience.
2. Discovering Unique Trees and Plants
The forest floor is full of fascinating plant life. Some trees are hundreds of years old, with thick roots that spread across the ground like giant snakes. Others have leaves so large they could cover your whole body.
- Silk cotton trees: These massive trees are some of the tallest in the forest. Their roots, called buttress roots, form natural walls that are taller than some people!
- Medicinal plants: The guides often show plants used in traditional medicine. Leaves that heal cuts, bark that eases fever, or roots used in herbal teas.
- Ferns and moss: These grow thick and green, covering stones and tree trunks like a soft blanket, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
You don’t need to be a plant expert to enjoy it – just seeing the diversity and beauty of these plants up close is enough to inspire wonder.
3. Listening to the Sounds of the Forest
On the trails, silence becomes your guide. But it’s not truly silent – the forest has its own music. When you stop walking and just listen, you’ll hear:
- Bird songs echoing from high up in the trees
- The rustling of small animals like squirrels or lizards
- The hum of insects and buzzing of bees
- Leaves crunching softly underfoot
Sometimes, this quiet is more powerful than any other part of the park. It helps you slow down, reflect, and feel connected to the earth.
4. Educational and Family-Friendly
The trails at Kakum are suitable for most visitors, including families with children, school groups, or curious solo travelers. The guided walks are both fun and educational, often including:
- Talks about conservation and wildlife protection
- Fun facts that help you remember what you’re seeing
- Interactive moments like touching tree bark, smelling leaves, or spotting birds
For kids and curious minds, it’s a wonderful way to learn outside the classroom.
5. Night Walks (By Request)
For an extra layer of adventure, some visitors choose to go on guided night walks. These special tours allow you to:
- See nocturnal animals like bush babies, owls, and bats
- Hear the forest come alive with the sounds of nighttime creatures
- Explore the forest under the stars with flashlights and lanterns
Nighttime in the forest feels like a completely different world – quiet, mysterious, and full of surprises.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Kakum National Park
Kakum National Park is open all year round, but some times are better than others if you want to enjoy your trip more.
✅ Best Months: November to March
This is the dry season in Ghana. The weather is sunny, the air is clear, and the trails are not too muddy. It’s perfect for:
- Walking on the canopy walkway without slipping
- Exploring the forest trails
- Spotting animals and birds in better light
You’ll also avoid heavy rains, which can sometimes make some parts of the park hard to access.
🌧️ Rainy Season: April to October
This is the wet season, and it rains often — sometimes suddenly and heavily. What to expect:
- The forest is greener and very beautiful
- But the trails can be muddy and slippery
- You may get wet or stuck in the rain
- The canopy walkway may be closed during storms for safety
If you visit during this season, come prepared with raincoats and waterproof shoes.
🗓️ Best Time of Day:
- Early Morning (6 AM – 10 AM):
Cooler weather, fewer people, and better chances of seeing wildlife. - Late Afternoon (3 PM – 4 PM):
Nice lighting and peaceful vibes, but you might be rushed because the park closes soon after.
How to Get to Kakum National Park
Kakum National Park is located in the Central Region of Ghana, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of Cape Coast. It’s easy to get there whether you are coming from Accra or Cape Coast.
From Accra:
- By Car or Private Vehicle:
The drive takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic. You’ll first head towards Cape Coast on the N1 highway, then take a turn north at Elmina Junction or Cape Coast township toward Jukwa Road. The route is well-marked. - By Bus or Minibus (Trotro):
Take a bus from Accra to Cape Coast (available at major stations like Kaneshie or Circle). From Cape Coast, you can take a shared taxi or minibus to the park. It’s about a 45-minute ride.
From Cape Coast:
- By Taxi:
This is the easiest and most direct option. A shared or private taxi can take you from Cape Coast to Kakum. It takes about 30–45 minutes. - By Public Transport:
You can also find minibuses (trotros) heading toward Jukwa or Abrafo, which are towns near the park. Ask the driver to drop you off at Kakum’s entrance.
Notes:
- Most tourists prefer to start from Cape Coast, which is home to many hotels and tourist sites.
- The road to the park from Cape Coast is paved and safe, but it may get bumpy near the end, so a 4×4 is more comfortable.
- It’s a good idea to leave early in the morning so you can explore the park before it gets too hot.