Wildlife in Ghana
Including Ankasa Conservation Area, Bia National Park, and Digya National Park. On the map.
The vibe
Observing wildlife here is a quiet, intimate experience centered on forest canopy walks and river boat trips rather than the high-density game drives found elsewhere. The dry season is essential for spotting animals as they congregate around shrinking water sources. It feels very much like a DIY adventure where you rely on the keen eyes of a local ranger to find life hidden in the dense foliage.
You pay a standard entry fee at the park entrance.
Ankasa Conservation Area
Western Region
Francesco Veronesi / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
A wet evergreen rainforest in southwestern Ghana known for its exceptional botanical diversity and rich fauna. It is one of the best spots in West Africa for seeing forest elephants, bongo, chimpanzees, and over 260 bird species.
Access. Located near Elubo, explored via guided hiking trails accompanied by armed wildlife scouts.
Notes. High rainfall year-round; waterproof gear and sturdy boots are essential.
Bia National Park
Western North Region
NSG group from Lund, Sweden / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
An untouched rainforest reserve in western Ghana protecting some of the country's last remaining pristine primary forest. It harbors significant populations of chimpanzees, forest elephants, and diverse hornbill species.
Access. Reachable from Elubo or Kumasi, requiring 4x4 transport and local park guides for forest treks.
Notes. Permits and advance arrangements with the Wildlife Division are mandatory.
Digya National Park
Bono East Region
Ghana's second-oldest national park, bordered largely by the massive Lake Volta. Its rugged terrain and wooded savanna support elephants, leopards, and numerous waterfowl.
Access. Accessed primarily by boat across Lake Volta or via rough tracks from the Bono East region.
Notes. Infrastructure is minimal, making it an expedition-style wildlife destination.
Kakum National Park
Central Region
Veennema / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
A dense tropical rainforest reserve famous for its dramatic canopy walkway suspended high above the forest floor. It is renowned for its rich birdlife, butterflies, and rare forest mammals.
Access. Located north of Cape Coast; visitors access the park via guided walks along the canopy walkway and ground trails.
Notes. Early morning visits offer the best opportunities for birdwatching and spotting forest wildlife.
Keta Lagoon Complex
Volta Region
Beth Knittle / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Ghana's largest coastal lagoon and a vital wetland sanctuary for thousands of migratory and resident waterbirds. Birdwatchers flock here to observe terns, herons, and pelicans.
Access. Easily reached from the coastal road near Keta, with local canoe trips and shore-based viewing spots.
Notes. Peak birding occurs during the European winter migration months.
Mole National Park
Savannah Region
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Ghana's largest and premier wildlife reserve, protecting a vast expanse of savanna and riparian ecosystems. Visitors come to encounter wild elephants, antelopes, baboons, and numerous bird species in their natural habitat.
Access. Accessible via Tamale, with park headquarters offering guided walking safaris and vehicle game drives.
Notes. Best visited during the dry season from November to March when animals gather around waterholes.
Shai Hills Resource Reserve
Greater Accra Region
daSupremo / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A relatively small coastal savanna and rocky hill reserve close to Accra. Visitors encounter green vervet monkeys, olive baboons, antelopes, and numerous bird species amidst striking savannah landscapes and caves.
Access. A short drive from Accra, offering guided driving, walking, and rock-climbing safaris.
Notes. Ideal for a quick day trip from the capital to experience wild savanna animals.