Did you know that Ghana is one of the top bird-watching destinations in West Africa? Yup — this little gem of a country is home to over 750 bird species, from the brightly colored sunbirds to the elusive white-necked picathartes (yes, it’s as rare and cool as it sounds). Whether you’re a binocular-wielding pro or a curious newbie who just likes “pretty birds,” Ghana’s got a perch for you.
Let’s take a fun, feather-filled tour of the best bird-watching spots in Ghana — and yes, don’t forget your sunscreen and snacks!
🌳 1. Kakum National Park – Central Region
Kakum is not just about its famous canopy walkway — it’s a bird paradise!
- What to See: Yellow-bearded greenbul, hornbills, African grey parrots, and the rare Nkulengu rail.
- Why It Rocks: The canopy walkway gives you a bird’s eye view — literally. Early morning visits are perfect for spotting the feathered celebs.
- Tip: Pack patience. The birds aren’t on a schedule.
📍 Location: Near Cape Coast
📖 Related Post: Exploring Ghana by Region: What to See in the Central Region
🌿 2. Bui National Park – Bono Region
Known for its hippos, but trust me, the birds steal the show.
- What to See: Senegal parrot, African fish eagle, kingfishers, and bee-eaters.
- Extra Fun: You might spot birds while canoeing on the Black Volta River. Very National Geographic vibes!
📍 Location: Bui Dam area
😂 Fun Fact: The fish eagles here have better fishing skills than most humans on a Sunday morning at the beach.
⛰️ 3. Shai Hills Resource Reserve – Greater Accra Region
So close to Accra, yet it feels like you’re hours away from the city hustle.
- What to See: Swallow-tailed bee-eaters, guinea fowls, violet turacos.
- Bonus: You might also see baboons — they don’t fly, but they sure make things interesting.
📍 Location: 45 minutes from Accra
🍌 Tip: Don’t feed the baboons. They’ll follow you like you owe them money.
🌴 4. Mole National Park – Savannah Region
Ghana’s largest wildlife park isn’t just about elephants.
- What to See: Over 300 bird species! Including the Abyssinian roller, malachite kingfisher, and white-backed vultures.
- Stay Perks: Mole Motel has balconies where birds practically pose for you.
📍 Location: Larabanga
📖 Related Post: The Most Peaceful Towns in Ghana for a Quiet Getaway
⛰️ 5. Atewa Range Forest – Eastern Region
A biodiversity hotspot — and home to the mysterious yellow-whiskered greenbul.
- Why Go: This is a key biodiversity area and one of Ghana’s last remaining intact upland evergreen forests.
- Bird Bonus: BirdLife International recognizes it as a vital site for conservation.
📍 Location: Near Kibi
🧭 Tip: Hire a guide — birds here like playing hide-and-seek.
🦜 6. Ankasa Conservation Area – Western Region
This place feels untouched, remote, and incredibly peaceful.
- What to See: Forest francolin, great blue turaco, and the endangered white-breasted guinea fowl.
- Getting There: It’s a bit of a trip, but bird nerds will say it’s 100% worth it.
📍 Location: Near Elubo, close to the Ivory Coast border
⏱️ Best Time to Visit: October to April for migratory birds.
🐣 7. Sakumono Lagoon – Greater Accra Region
A wetland haven for both local and migratory birds.
- Bird Stars: Black-winged stilts, terns, herons, and even flamingos during the right season!
- Tip: Bring your zoom lens — this is Instagram-worthy content.
📍 Location: Tema
🔎 Note: It’s a Ramsar Site, so conservation is key.
🎒 Tips for Bird-Watching in Ghana
- 🕓 Go Early – Birds are most active just after sunrise.
- 🔭 Bring Binoculars – Essential. Otherwise, it’s just a “spot the blur” game.
- 📱 Download Merlin or BirdNET – These apps help you ID birds by photos or sound.
- 🌡️ Wear Light Clothes – Ghana’s heat will test you.
- 🐜 Bug Spray is Life – Mosquitoes don’t care about your birdwatching dreams.
🤔 Final Chirp: Why Bird-Watch in Ghana?
Ghana offers a mix of savannah, wetlands, and tropical rainforests, making it one of the most diverse birding spots on the continent. Whether you’re snapping pics for fun or adding rare birds to your life list, this country delivers.
So, grab your gear and get out there — Ghana’s birds are waiting to show off. 🐦✨