Family Adventure in Kakum National Park, Ghana

A Day of Discoveries

Today, our family adventure took us beyond the familiar trails of Kakum, diving deeper into the heart of Ghana's cultural and natural landscapes. It was a day filled with unexpected delights, from the lush greenery of Bunso Eco Park to the vibrant stalls of a local market, and the savory tastes of authentic Ghanaian cuisine. These are the moments that truly define a journey, the ones that linger in your memory long after you've returned home.


Explore the lush landscapes and biodiversity of Bunso Eco Park, a tranquil paradise in Ghana perfect for nature lovers and family outings.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Me3 Cafe and Pastry Shop. Liam and Nadia were particularly excited about the pastries, a delightful start to our morning. After breakfast, we set off for Bunso Eco Park, also known as Bunso Arboretum. The drive itself was an experience, with the landscape transforming into a tapestry of green as we moved further inland. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and the promise of adventure. Bunso Eco Park is truly a hidden gem. As we stepped out of the car, the sounds of the city faded away, replaced by the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves. Nadia was immediately captivated by the colorful flowers and the towering trees that surrounded us. We started with the canopy walk, a series of suspended bridges that offered a breathtaking view of the forest below. I must admit, I felt a slight tremor of fear as I stepped onto the first bridge, but Nadia's excitement was infectious. She ran ahead, her laughter echoing through the trees, urging us to follow. Liam, ever the supportive husband, held my hand, reminding me that we were safe and that the view was worth it. He was right. From the canopy, we could see the forest stretching out in every direction, a sea of green punctuated by the occasional splash of color. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the sheer scale and beauty of nature. We also tried the zipline, which was a short but fun experience.

Travel is more than seeing sights; it's about experiencing the stories, the flavors, and the heart of a place.

After our treetop adventure, we explored the park's botanical gardens, where we learned about the diverse plant life of Ghana. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating facts about the medicinal properties of various plants and the cultural significance of certain trees. Nadia, always curious, peppered him with questions, eager to learn everything she could. I was particularly interested in the cocoa farm tour, where we got to see how cocoa beans are grown and processed. As someone who enjoys cooking Ivorian dishes for friends and family, understanding the origins of ingredients is important to me. The tasting tour was a treat, the rich, dark chocolate melting in my mouth, a testament to the quality of Ghanaian cocoa. We also saw the adult swing, which Liam and Nadia enjoyed.
By midday, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we headed to Chillout Eatery and Pub for lunch. The name itself was inviting, promising a relaxed atmosphere and good food. We were not disappointed. The restaurant had a laid-back vibe, with colorful decor and friendly staff. Liam ordered a local beer, while Nadia and I opted for fresh fruit juice. The menu was a mix of Ghanaian and international dishes, but we decided to stick with the local fare. I ordered fufu with groundnut soup, a classic Ghanaian dish that I had been craving since we arrived. Liam tried jollof rice with chicken, while Nadia, ever adventurous, opted for banku with tilapia. The food was delicious, flavorful, and satisfying. It was the perfect fuel for the rest of our day.
After lunch, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local culture with a visit to the Market Place. The market was a sensory overload, a riot of colors, sounds, and smells. Vendors hawked their wares, their voices blending into a cacophony of noise. The air was thick with the scent of spices, fruits, and freshly cooked food. Nadia was wide-eyed, taking it all in, pointing at everything that caught her attention. We wandered through the stalls, admiring the intricate fabrics, the handcrafted jewelry, and the vibrant artwork. I haggled with a vendor over the price of a beautiful Kente cloth, a traditional Ghanaian textile known for its bold patterns and bright colors. It was a skill I had learned from my mother, a necessary part of shopping in the markets of Aboisso. I envisioned myself wearing it at the next community event in Kingston, a vibrant reminder of my heritage. We bought some fresh fruits, including mangoes, pineapples, and bananas, their sweetness a welcome treat in the afternoon heat.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Emperor Ital Joint for dinner. This vegetarian restaurant was recommended to us by a local we met at the market, who raved about their delicious Ital food. Ital food is a style of cooking associated with the Rastafari movement, emphasizing natural, plant-based ingredients. The restaurant was small and cozy, with only a few tables, but the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The walls were decorated with colorful paintings and posters promoting veganism and environmentalism. We asked the chef for recommendations, and he suggested we try the red red, a traditional Ghanaian dish made with black-eyed peas and plantains. We also ordered a veggie burger and some fresh juice. The food was incredible, bursting with flavor and made with fresh, local ingredients. Even Liam, who is not usually a fan of vegetarian food, was impressed. Nadia devoured her veggie burger, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. It was the perfect end to a day of culinary exploration.
As we drove back to our campsite, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had seen so much, experienced so much, and learned so much. We had ventured beyond the well-trodden paths of Kakum National Park and discovered the hidden gems of Ghana. We had connected with the local culture, tasted the authentic flavors of Ghanaian cuisine, and immersed ourselves in the natural beauty of the country. It was a day that had enriched our lives and deepened our appreciation for this amazing place. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventure to the Atewa Range, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. I wonder what new discoveries await us, what new experiences we will encounter, and what new memories we will create. One thing is for sure, our family adventure in Ghana is far from over.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Atewa Range, and hopefully we'll find even more natural beauty to share with you all. We'll have breakfast at Peduase Chop House, lunch at Fema Resto Cafe, and dinner at Da Breeze Bar & Restaurant. We might even stop by Koli's Pub for a drink. Stay tuned for more adventures!

Even though I had forgotten a portable solar charger and extra batteries, the day was still amazing. This trip has been an incredible bonding experience for Liam, Nadia, and me. I'm grateful for these moments and look forward to sharing more of our journey with you.