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Explore the 5 Best Sights and Activities in Accra, Ghana
Accra, the capital of Ghana, is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of sights and activities. From exploring the city on foot to taking a leisurely boat ride, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are looking to take in the culture, sample local cuisine, or simply relax and enjoy the sunshine, Accra has plenty of options. Here are the five top sights and activities in Accra that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Visit the National Museum of Ghana
The National Museum of Ghana is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Located in downtown Accra, the museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and artworks that tell the story of Ghana’s history and culture. The museum’s exhibits include traditional clothing, textiles, masks, sculptures, and more. In addition, the museum also houses a small library and shop where visitors can buy books and souvenirs.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm and admission is free. Visitors can also take guided tours of the museum which provide an in-depth look at the collection.
Book a guided tour of the National Museum of Ghana
2. Wander through Jamestown
Jamestown is one of Accra’s oldest neighborhoods. Founded in 1673 by British traders, Jamestown was once a bustling commercial center and was home to a number of merchants, traders, and artisans. Today, the neighborhood is still home to many of the buildings from its former days, including the 18th-century James Fort. Jamestown is also home to the bustling Makola Market, which is one of the city’s biggest markets and is a great place to find local wares and souvenirs.
Take a stroll through Jamestown’s narrow streets and explore its colonial-era buildings, markets, churches, and mansions. You’ll get an authentic glimpse into Accra’s history and culture.
3. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Volta
Lake Volta is located in southeast Ghana and is the largest man-made lake in the world. Stretching for over 3,000 kilometers, the lake is home to a variety of wildlife and fish species and is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. Spend a day exploring Lake Volta by boat and take in its stunning scenery, from lush forests to tranquil villages. You can even spot some of the lake’s resident hippos!
There are several tour operators offering boat rides on Lake Volta where you can choose between private or group trips. The boats are typically equipped with fishing gear and food and drinks are provided onboard.
Book a boat ride on Lake Volta
4. Sample Local Cuisine at Makola Market
Accra’s Makola Market is one of the city’s most popular attractions. The bustling market offers a wide selection of local crafts, clothes, spices, and souvenirs. It is also home to a variety of food stalls where you can sample Ghanaian delicacies such as kelewele (fried plantain), jollof rice, fufu (a starchy paste made from yams or cocoyams) and more.
Makola Market is open from Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm and is a great place to experience local life in Accra.
5. Relax at La Palm Beach
Accra’s La Palm Beach is one of the city’s most popular beaches. Located on the Atlantic coast, La Palm Beach offers stunning views of the ocean and plenty of opportunities for relaxation. Spend a day soaking up the sun on the beach or take a stroll along its boardwalk while admiring the views.
The beach is also home to some restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the views. La Palm Beach is open daily from 8am to 7pm and admission is free.
Experience Accra Like A Local
Accra offers something for everyone – from exploring its historical sites to sampling local cuisine and relaxing on its beautiful beaches. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of activities to fill your days with during your visit to Accra. So come explore this vibrant city and experience all it has to offer!
An Insider’s Guide to Accra, Ghana
Accra, the capital of Ghana, is a vibrant city that offers visitors a unique blend of culture and history. Known for its lively art scene, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches, there is plenty to see and do for everyone. Beyond the tourist attractions, there are some hidden gems that only the locals know about. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore these lesser-known sights and activities that will make your trip to Accra truly unforgettable.
Local Attractions
While popular tourist attractions like the Independence Square and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park are worth visiting, there are some hidden gems that only locals know about. For example, the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange, named after the first person to bring cocoa to Ghana, is a great place for a panoramic view of the city. The Aburi Botanical Gardens, located in the mountains outside Accra, offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Also, if you’re interested in history, don’t miss the Osu Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as a centre for the Atlantic slave trade.
Dining Spots
Ghanaian cuisine is a unique blend of local ingredients and foreign influences. Don’t leave Accra without trying ‘fufu’, a starchy staple food, accompanied by spicy soup or sauce. One of the best places to try some of this local cuisine is Osikan, in the Labadi area. Osikan’s menu features traditional Ghanaian food with a modern twist, creatively plated to perfection. Also, head over to Papaye Fast Food, one of the most popular fast-food chains in Ghana, where locals and tourists alike relish the traditional ‘jollof rice,’ a spicy and flavourful one-pot dish made with rice, tomato sauce, and spices.
Cultural Experiences
Ghana is known for its vibrant and diverse culture, which is reflected in its art, music, festivals, and customs. To experience some of this culture, head to the Centre for National Culture in Accra, where you’ll find a variety of artisanal shops selling products like traditional cloths, leather goods, and wood carvings. To learn more about the city’s music scene, visit the Nubuke Foundation in the East Legon neighbourhood, which features exhibitions and live performances showcasing local music talent. If you happen to be in Accra during the Homowo festival, be sure to witness the celebrations, which involve lots of drumming, dancing, and traditional attire.
Local History
Ghana has a rich history that dates back centuries, and Accra plays a significant role in the country’s past. One of the fascinating historical sites in Accra is the James Town Lighthouse, which served as a navigation beacon for ships arriving at the port in the early 20th century. Take a walk around the neighbourhood, and you’ll stumble upon remnants of the city’s colonial past, like the Ussher Fort and the Danish Osu Castle. For a more in-depth exploration of Accra’s history, visit the National Museum of Ghana, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts and exhibits related to the country’s past.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions
For a unique experience in Accra, head to Jamestown, one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods. Here, you can take a walking tour of the neighbourhood with a local guide, who will introduce you to its colourful history and culture. Don’t miss a visit to the fish market, where you’ll witness fishermen bringing in fresh catches from the sea. Also, take a stroll through the neighbourhood’s narrow alleyways, lined with colourful houses and street art.
In conclusion, Accra is an exciting and diverse city that offers visitors a plethora of experiences. The city’s hidden gems and vibrant culture are what make it truly special. Whether its exploring local attractions, savouring the unique cuisine, or learning about the city’s rich history and culture, there is something for everyone in Accra. So, come and explore this incredible city, and you’re sure to fall in love with Ghana’s ever-welcoming people and Afropolitan culture.
