Fort St. Jago – Elmina, Ghana
Fort St. Jago, also known as Coenraadsburg Fort, sits on St. Jago Hill overlooking Elmina Castle and the town of Elmina in Ghana’s Central Region. Built by the Dutch in the 1660s after they captured Elmina from the Portuguese, the fort served as a military stronghold and lookout point. Unlike the castles, it was not primarily used for trade but for defense and surveillance. Today, the fort provides sweeping views of Elmina Castle, the town, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Quick Facts
Location: St. Jago Hill, Elmina, Central Region, Ghana.
Built: 1666 by the Dutch, after capturing Elmina Castle in 1637.
Other Name: Coenraadsburg Fort.
Purpose: Military fortification and lookout, guarding Elmina Castle.
UNESCO Status: Part of Ghana’s World Heritage Forts and Castles since 1979.
Best for: Panoramic views of Elmina Castle and the surrounding coast.
Highlights & Things To Do
Panoramic Views
The fort’s hilltop position offers breathtaking views of Elmina Castle, Elmina Lagoon, and the Atlantic Ocean — perfect for photography.
History & Architecture
Explore the sturdy whitewashed walls, bastions, and simple architecture reflecting its role as a military post.
Connection to Elmina Castle
Learn about how Fort St. Jago protected and monitored Elmina Castle during the colonial period.
Walking Tour Combination
Visit the fort as part of a walking tour of Elmina town — combine with the castle, fish market, and lagoon area.
Hours, Contact & Essentials
Opening Hours: Generally 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (confirm locally).
Contact: Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, Central Region (+233 33 213 2409).
Entry Fees: Small fee; lower than the castles.
Tour Duration: 30–45 minutes.
Getting There
From Elmina Castle: A 10–15 minute uphill walk across the lagoon bridge.
From Cape Coast: About 20 minutes west by car.
From Accra: About 3 hours by car via the coastal highway.
Travel Tips
Wear comfortable shoes — the climb to the fort is uphill.
Best to visit in the morning or evening for cooler weather and great light for photos.
Carry water, especially on hot days.
Combine with Elmina Castle to make the most of your visit.
Nearby Attractions
Cape Coast Castle
UNESCO World Heritage Site, ~1 hour away.
Elmina Castle
Another major slave trade site, ~1 hour 15 minutes away.
Kakum National Park
Canopy walkway and rainforest, ~45 minutes away.
Fort Amsterdam (Abandze)
One of the smaller forts along the coast, ~1.5 hours away.
Nearby Hotels
Ridge Royal Hotel – Cape Coast
(modern, pool, restaurant, gym).
Oasis Beach Resort – Cape Coast
(beachfront guesthouse, popular with backpackers).
Orange Beach Resort – Cape Coast
(budget-friendly, near the castle).
Hans Cottage Botel – Kakum Road
(eco-lodge, crocodile ponds, family-friendly).
Frequently Asked Questions – Fort St. Jago (Elmina)
When was Fort St. Jago built?
It was built in 1666 by the Dutch, after they captured Elmina from the Portuguese in 1637.
What was the purpose of Fort St. Jago?
The fort was used as a military stronghold and lookout point to protect Elmina Castle. Unlike the castles, it was not primarily a trading post.
What is another name for Fort St. Jago?
It is also known as Coenraadsburg Fort.
Where is Fort St. Jago located?
On St. Jago Hill, directly across from Elmina Castle, overlooking the town of Elmina and the Atlantic Ocean.
Can visitors enter Fort St. Jago?
Yes, visitors can access the fort for a small entrance fee. The Ghana Museums and Monuments Board manages the site.
How do I get there?
It is a 10–15 minute uphill walk from Elmina Castle, across the lagoon bridge. The site is about 20 minutes west of Cape Coast by car.
What can I see at Fort St. Jago?
Panoramic views of Elmina Castle, the town, and the coastline. The fort also has bastions, thick whitewashed walls, and simple Dutch architecture.
How long does a visit take?
About 30–45 minutes, shorter than tours of the larger castles.
Is the fort worth visiting?
Yes — its views of Elmina Castle and the Atlantic Ocean are some of the best in Ghana.
Is Fort St. Jago child-friendly?
Yes, but children should be supervised during the uphill climb and near the fort’s high walls.