Hiking in Ghana
Including Ankasa Conservation Area Rainforest Trails, Boti Falls and Umbrella Rock Trail, and Bui National Park Gallery Forest Walks. On the map.
The vibe
Walking here is defined by the humid transition from coastal plains to the dense, rolling canopy of the interior highlands. The dry season from November to March is the only time the paths remain firm and clear of heavy tropical downpours. You will find yourself navigating largely unmarked forest tracks with a local guide, feeling more like a guest in a quiet village landscape than a visitor on a groomed trail.
You pay a small entry fee at the gate of any forest reserve.
Ankasa Conservation Area Rainforest Trails
Western Region
Francesco Veronesi / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Trek through one of Ghana's wettest and most biodiverse evergreen rainforests, featuring swamp forests, rushing rivers, and hidden cascades like Nini Suhien. The dense jungle tracks offer pristine wilderness isolation.
Access. Located in the extreme southwest near Elubo; 4x4 transport is recommended to reach the park entrance.
Notes. Heavy rainfall requires waterproof gear and leech protection.
Boti Falls and Umbrella Rock Trail
Eastern Region
FaridhaSL / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Explore the rolling hills of the Eastern Region on a scenic nature walk that connects the twin Boti Falls with the balancing Umbrella Rock and a mysterious three-legged palm tree. The route winds through peaceful rural landscapes and forested ravines.
Access. Located north of Koforidua; local guides are available at the main Boti Falls entrance gate.
Notes. Best visited during or shortly after the rainy season for optimal waterfall flow.
Bui National Park Gallery Forest Walks
Bono Region
Trek through the transitional woodland and riverine habitats along the Black Volta River, keeping watch for hippos and diverse birdlife. The routes offer a mix of flat savannah walking and shaded gallery forest paths.
Access. Located in western Ghana; accessed via Techiman with park management coordination.
Notes. Check river levels and seasonal park access before visiting.
Digya National Park Escarpment Trails
Bono East Region
Explore the rugged terrain and wooded savannahs bordering Lake Volta on remote wilderness hikes. The trails navigate rocky outcrops, sandstone escarpments, and quiet lakeside shores.
Access. Accessed via boat or rough tracks from Sekondi-Takoradi or regional hubs; requires advance planning and park permits.
Notes. Remote area with minimal tourist infrastructure; self-sufficiency and experienced local guides are essential.
Kakum National Park Canopy and Nature Trails
Central Region
Veennema / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Trek through a pristine tropical rainforest ecosystem via elevated canopy walkways and grounded forest trails. Experienced guides lead interpretive walks highlighting medicinal plants, forest birds, and primates.
Access. Located north of Cape Coast; easily accessible by taxi or tour transport with tickets purchased at the park headquarters.
Notes. Sturdy walking shoes are required; the canopy walkway features suspension bridges that may challenge those with vertigo.
Kwahu Plateau Escarpment Hiking Trails
Eastern Region
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Hike along the dramatic sandstone cliffs of the Kwahu Plateau, descending into deep valleys and forested ravines via ancient trading paths. The trails offer sweeping vistas over the transition zone between forest and savannah.
Access. Based around Mpraeso or Abetifi; local community guides can lead walks down the escarpment face.
Notes. Steep descents require good footwear and cautious footing.
Mole National Park Walking Safaris
Savannah Region
This image is created by user Bram ter Keurs at Observation.org , a global biodiversity recording project. / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Experience guided walking safaris across Ghana's largest wildlife reserve, tracking elephants, antelopes, and baboons on foot across open savannah and gallery forest. Armed rangers accompany all trekking groups for safety.
Access. Start from the Mole Motel headquarters near Larabanga; park entry and mandatory armed guides are arranged on-site.
Notes. Walks can be warm and dusty; carry sun protection and plenty of water.
Shai Hills Resource Reserve Hiking Trails
Greater Accra Region
daSupremo / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Wander through a scenic coastal savannah and dry forest reserve featuring dramatic rocky hills, ancient caves, and remnants of the Shai people. Trails lead to vantage points overlooking the Accra plains and up close to baboons and antelopes.
Access. Located just off the main Accra-Akosombo highway, easily reached by taxi or private car.
Notes. Short, accessible day hikes suitable for all fitness levels; guide services available at the gate.
Tagbo Falls and Mount Afadja Trails
Volta Region
Dangbe23 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Traverse cocoa farms, dense tropical vegetation, and meandering streams on the scenic path leading to Tagbo Falls near the border with Togo. Combine this with trails ascending the lower slopes of Mount Afadja for a full day of diverse hiking.
Access. Begin treks from Liati Todze village where guides are assigned at the community tourism office.
Notes. Guide services are mandatory; bring plenty of water and insect repellent for the humid forest sections.